Question Summary
Is it permissible to recite Sura al-Fatiha in only one rak’a of prayer?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
It is necessary to recite Sura al-Fatiha in the following prayers:
(1) Both units of Fajr prayer
(2) The first two units of Dhuhr prayer
(3) The first two units of Asr prayer
(4) The first two units of Maghrib prayer
(5) The first two units of ‘Isha prayer
(6) All of the units of the Witr prayer
(7) All of the units of a voluntary prayer
[Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah]
If one accidentally omitted the recitation of Sura al-Fatiha in any one of the units, they must perform the prostrations of forgetfulness. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah]
If this omission occurs in a 4 unit prayer, the recitation should be made up in the final two units. One would still perform the prostrations of forgetfulness. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah]
However, if Sura al-Fatiha was omitted intentionally, one is sinful, and it is necessary to repeat such prayer if the prayer time remains. If the time has gone out, it is recommended to repeat that prayer. [Tahtawi,Shurunbulali; Hashiyat Maraqi al-Falah]
Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani