How to pray Fajr

Fajr is the first prayer of the day. With only two rak’ahs it is often the easiest prayer for a beginner to learn first. Fajr is prayed at dawn, in the window between true dawn and sunrise.

Quick answer

• Rak’ahs (obligatory): 2 rak’ahs. You pray two units, then sit for the Tashahhud and end with the Taslim (the closing “As-salamu alaykum”).
• Recitation: Both rak’ahs are recited aloud.
• When: At dawn, in the window between true dawn and sunrise.

Before you pray Fajr

• Be in a state of Wudu (ablution).
• Face the Qibla — the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca.
• Make sure you are within the time window for Fajr.

The sequence, step by step

Every rak’ah follows the same pattern — stand and recite, bow, and prostrate twice. For the full detail of each position and what to say, see the complete how to pray Salah guide. For Fajr specifically:

1. Make your intention for Fajr and begin with the opening takbir, Allahu akbar.
2. In each standing, recite Surah Al-Fatiha, then (in the first two rak’ahs) another short surah. Both rak’ahs are recited aloud.
3. Bow (Ruku), then rise; prostrate (Sujud) twice, sitting briefly between them. That completes one rak’ah.
4. 2 rak’ahs. You pray two units, then sit for the Tashahhud and end with the Taslim (the closing “As-salamu alaykum”).

The best way to learn the timing and flow is to practise it: Khatawa walks you through Fajr live, showing each posture with the words and recitation, and marking which parts are aloud and which are silent.

Frequently asked questions