My friend's wife is an Austrian non-Muslim but generous and good and now she has contracted a dangerous disease. Are we, as Muslims, allowed to supplicate Allaah for her recovery? Also, is it permissible to recite Al-Faatihah (Quran, chapter 1) on her if she dies?

All perfect praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and messenger.

It is permissible for you to supplicate Allaah for the recovery of this Christian woman, because it is permissible to supplicate, in terms of asking for worldly benefits, for a non belligerent non-Muslim.

As for supplicating for the deceased non-Muslim for forgiveness or intending the reward of reciting the Quran to their soul, then this is impermissible according to the consensus of the scholars . Thus, it is unlawful for you or her husband to do so.

Also, be aware that gathering for condolences at the family home of the deceased and reciting Al-Faatihah for her soul is a religious innovation that is unlawful, even if the deceased is a Muslim.

Allaah Knows best.