The Etiquette of I'tikaf and the Conditions for Its Validity

Question:
What are the prescribed etiquettes that the one performing i'tikaf should observe?

Answer:
First, he should avoid intercourse and its causes, as Allah the Exalted said: Second, the i'tikaf should be in a mosque where the congregational prayer is established. If it is in other than a mosque, this is not prescribed; it is a bid'ah (religious innovation), like the i'tikaf of the Sufis in their retreats. Likewise, if it is in a deserted mosque where the congregation is not prayed, it is not permissible to perform i'tikaf there, because he will be cut off from the congregation. Either he will be cut off from the congregation, or he will have to go out every time, and this is contrary to i'tikaf. Also, among the etiquettes of i'tikaf is that one should be fasting, and this is better. However, it is permissible to perform i'tikaf without fasting, because 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) vowed to perform i'tikaf for one night in the Sacred Mosque, so he asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), and he said to him: "Fulfill your vow." And it is known that there is no fasting at night, so it is permissible for one who is not fasting to perform i'tikaf, but it is better for the one who is fasting. Yes. May Allah reward you.
Among the etiquettes of i'tikaf is that one should increase in the remembrance of Allah, the recitation of the Qur'an, and the voluntary prayers, and not occupy himself with worldly matters, with visitors, or with so-and-so. Yes.