Is it recommended for non-Muslim subjects (Ahl al-Dhimma) to participate with Muslims in seeking rain?
Chapter on the Prayer for Rain (Istisqa)
Al-Mughni
Book of the Eclipse Prayers (Solar and Lunar)
Primary text
It is not recommended to require non-Muslim subjects to participate in the seeking of rain because they are enemies of God who disbelieved in Him and repaid His favors with disbelief, thus being far from having their supplications answered. Furthermore, if rain comes, Muslims might claim the relief resulted from their specific prayers and acceptance.
Supporting text
If non-Muslims choose to go out to seek rain independently, they are not to be prevented because they are seeking their sustenance from their Lord, and God has guaranteed their sustenance in this world, just as He guaranteed the sustenance of the believers. They are, however, commanded to keep separate from the Muslims because there is a risk that a punishment might befall them, thereby encompassing everyone present, as exemplified when the people of 'Ad sought rain and God destroyed them with a violent wind.