What are Nafl Prayers?
صَلَاةُ النَّافِلَةِ
Learn about Nafl prayers — voluntary Islamic prayers, their types, virtues, and recommended times.
Voluntary Acts of Worship
Nafl prayers are voluntary acts of worship beyond the obligatory (Farz) and necessary (Wajib) prayers. While not required, they are one of the greatest means of earning reward and drawing closer to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ said: "My servant continues to draw near to Me with voluntary deeds until I love him." (Bukhari)
Types of Nafl Prayer
Nafl prayers include: Awwabin (6 Rakats after Maghrib), Ishraq (2–4 Rakats after sunrise), Duha/Chasht (2–8 Rakats in the morning), Tahiyyatul Wudu (2 Rakats after Wudu), Tahiyyatul Masjid (2 Rakats upon entering the masjid), and general Nafl prayers throughout the day and night.
Forbidden Times for Nafl
Nafl prayers are Makruh (disliked) at three times: exactly at sunrise (until the sun is fully risen), exactly at midday (until the sun begins to decline), and at sunset (until the sun fully sets). These restrictions do not apply to Qada prayers or Sajdah Tilawah.
The Virtue of Nafl
The Prophet ﷺ said that on the Day of Judgement, if a person's obligatory prayers are deficient, Allah will say: "Look if My servant has any voluntary prayers" — and these will make up what was lacking in the obligatory prayers. (Tirmidhi) Nafl prayers are therefore a spiritual safety net and a way to compensate for imperfect obligatory prayers.
How Many Rakats?
Nafl prayers are prayed in sets of 2 Rakats. There is no maximum number. Longer recitation and longer prostration are recommended. Each set begins with a fresh intention. You may pray multiple sets in succession.
How to Pray Nafl
Get the step-by-step guide for praying Nafl — same structure as any 2-Rakat prayer:
How to Pray Nafl →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Nafl prayer?
The Prophet ﷺ said: "The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer (Qiyam ul Layl / Tahajjud)." (Muslim). After that, the Sunnah prayers attached to the five daily prayers are the most emphasized.
Can I pray Nafl during Fajr time?
In the Hanafi school, no other Nafl prayers are permitted between the Fajr Azan and the Fajr Farz (except the 2 Sunnah of Fajr). After Fajr Salah, no Nafl is permitted until after sunrise.