Performing Nafl (Voluntary) Prayers While Traveling on a Mount or Vehicle

Hadith Reference:​

It is narrated from Salim bin Abdullah bin Umar on the authority of his father (رضي الله عنه) that:
"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to offer voluntary prayers (Nafl) while riding on his mount, regardless of which direction it was facing. He would also perform Witr on it. However, he did not perform obligatory prayers (Fard) on it."
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 575/2 | Fath al-Bari: 670/2 | Sahih Muslim: 700)

Key Lessons:​

❶ Voluntary prayers (Nafl) can be performed while riding a mount or traveling in a vehicle, even if it is not facing the Qiblah.

• This includes Salah offered on camels, horses, ships, airplanes, and other modes of transport.
• The Prophet (ﷺ) himself performed Nafl prayers on his ride in whichever direction it moved.

❷ Obligatory (Fard) prayers must be performed while facing the Qiblah and standing if possible.

• If one is on a journey, they should dismount from the vehicle (if feasible) and perform Fard prayers properly.
• If traveling in a group, arrangements should be made to stop and pray in congregation.

❸ The Prophet (ﷺ) performed Witr prayers on his mount, indicating that Witr can be performed in a similar manner while traveling.

❹ If someone realizes they are facing the wrong direction in Salah, they should correct their position towards the Qiblah.

• However, prayers previously performed in the wrong direction (due to lack of knowledge) remain valid.

❺ People traveling by modern transportation (such as ships, airplanes, or buses) can perform both Fard and Nafl prayers while onboard.

• Ideally, one should stand and face the Qiblah when possible.
• If movement is restricted, Nafl prayers can be prayed in a sitting position.

❻ The negligence of prayer in Muslim societies:

• In many Muslim countries, buses and other transport systems continue running even during prayer times, without stopping for Salah.
• Some drivers and conductors neglect prayers, focusing only on their earnings.
• Ideally, public transport should halt at prayer times to allow passengers to pray.
• However, if stopping is not possible, travelers should combine their prayers (Jama' Bain as-Salatain) and continue their journey.

❼ There is no requirement to face the Qiblah while engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) on a mount or vehicle.

Source:
This content is taken from Sheikh Taqi al-Din Abi al-Fath's book "Diya' al-Islam fi Sharh al-Imam bi Ahadith al-Ahkam", translated by Maulana Mahmood Ahmad Ghaznfar.