When are the Arafah and Tarwiyah Fasts Observed? Check Dates and Virtues

Leading up to Eid al-Adha, Muslims are encouraged to observe Sunnah fasts in the early days of Dhu al-Hijjah, including the Tarwiyah and Arafah fasts. Many people inquire about the duration of these fasts.

The primary Sunnah fasts before Eid al-Adha span two consecutive days: the 8th and 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah. Details are as follows:

Although these two days are the most commonly observed, Muslims are also recommended to fast for the first nine days of Dhu al-Hijjah (1st to 9th), part of the ten days beloved by Allah SWT.

To determine the dates in the Gregorian calendar, Muslims should refer to the government’s official moon-sighting announcement for the start of Dhu al-Hijjah. The Hijri schedule is as follows:

Observing these fasts holds significant merit for those not performing Hajj:

For those wishing to observe them, the intentions are as follows:

Tarwiyah Fast Intention (8th Dhu al-Hijjah):

Nawaitu shauma tarwiyata sunnatan lillahi ta’ala.

(Translation: I intend to fast the Sunnah Tarwiyah for Allah SWT.)

Arafah Fast Intention (9th Dhu al-Hijjah):

Nawaitu shauma arafata sunnatan lillahi ta’ala.

(Translation: I intend to fast the Sunnah Arafah for Allah SWT.)

The Tarwiyah and Arafah fasts occur on the 8th and 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah. These acts of worship are strongly encouraged for Muslims not performing Hajj as a means to draw closer to Allah SWT and seek forgiveness for sins.