Is a Muslim obligated to accept the invitation of a Dhimmi (non-Muslim citizen)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Wedding Feast
Primary text
Acceptance of an invitation is not obligatory for a Muslim when the inviter is a Dhimmi. This ruling is held by our companions because accepting the invitation is intended for honoring, showing allegiance (muwalat), and confirming affection and brotherhood, which are not due to a Dhimmi. Furthermore, one cannot be secure that their food might be mixed with what is unlawful or impure (najasah). However, accepting their invitation is permissible.
Supporting text
The permissibility is supported by the narration of Anas, that a Jew invited the Prophet (peace be upon him) to barley bread and rancid grease (ihalat sankhah), and the Prophet accepted the invitation. This narration is cited by Imam Ahmad in his book "Az-Zuhd".