Is it permissible to pray in areas outside Mecca without a barrier?

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It is permissible to perform the prayer outside of Mecca without a barrier (Sutrah). This is evidenced by the tradition where the Prophet, peace be upon him, prayed in an open space with nothing in front of him, as narrated by Ibn 'Abbas and recorded by Al-Bukhari. Another narration states the Prophet, peace be upon him, prayed without a barrier while visiting the desert people. The fundamental principle is that the Sutrah is recommended (*mustahabb*), not a condition (*shart*) for the validity of the prayer. Imam Ahmad stated that prayer without a barrier or a line drawn is valid, though performing it is preferred.