Performing the Fajr prayer is essential for every Muslim. Allah emphasizes the importance of Fajr in the Qur'an:
"وَقُومُوا اللَّيْلَ إِلَّا قَلِيلًا، نِصْفَهُ أَوِ اقْتَرِبُوا مِنْهُ" (الذاريات: 17-18)
Meaning: "And stand [to pray] at night, except for a little, half of it or a little less." [1] Fajr is the first of the five daily prayers and sets the tone for the day.

Begin by performing wudu (ablution) to purify yourself. The Prophet ﷺ said:
"الطُّهُورُ شَطْرُ الإِيْمَانِ" (رواه مسلم)
Meaning: "Purity is half of faith." [2] Correct wudu ensures that your Fajr prayer is accepted.

Start Fajr with Niyyah (intention) silently in your heart. Then make Takbiratul Ihram by saying "Allahu Akbar", raising your hands. This marks the start of prayer. [3]

Recite Surah Al-Fatiha in the first rak'ah, followed by another short surah such as Surah Al-Ikhlas. The Prophet ﷺ said:
"لا صلاة لمن لم يقرأ بفاتحة الكتاب" (رواه Bukhari & Muslim)
Meaning: "There is no prayer for one who does not recite Al-Fatiha." [4]

After recitation, perform Ruku (bowing), saying "Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem" three times. Then rise to standing, saying "Sami' Allahu liman hamidah" and "Rabbana lakal hamd." [5]

Next, perform Sujood (prostration) twice, saying "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" three times each time. Sit between the two prostrations briefly, then prostrate again. [5]

Repeat these steps for the second rak'ah, reciting Al-Fatiha and another surah, then completing Ruku and Sujood. End the prayer with Tashahhud, Salam to the right and left, saying: "Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah." [6]

A practical example: Abdullah ibn Umar رضي الله عنه was reported to pray Fajr immediately after its time, performing each step carefully. He said: "I learned from the Prophet ﷺ to pray Fajr calmly and in full attention." [7]

Fajr prayer strengthens faith and discipline. Regular performance earns immense reward, as stated in Hadith:
"من صلى الفجر فهو في ذمة الله" (رواه Ahmad & Tirmidhi)
Meaning: "Whoever prays Fajr is under the protection of Allah." [8] Following these steps ensures a valid and spiritually fulfilling Fajr prayer.


References:

1. Qur'an, Surah Adh-Dhariyat, 51:17-18


2. Sahih Muslim, Book of Purification


3. Al-Muwatta Imam Malik, Book of Prayer


4. Sahih Bukhari & Sahih Muslim, Book of Prayer


5. Sunan Abu Dawood, Book of Prayer


6. Riyad as-Salihin, Hadith on Prayer


7. Sahih Bukhari, Hadith of Abdullah ibn Umar


8. Musnad Ahmad & Jami' at-Tirmidhi