Is it obligatory to recite specific supplications while performing wudu (ablution)?

Some sources mention separate supplications to be recited while washing each limb during wudu. (Nawawī, al-Adhkar, 75-76) However, according to authentic narrations, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did not make any special supplication while performing wudu. Therefore, although these supplications contain beautiful meanings, reciting them during wudu is not obligatory. Nevertheless, there is no harm in reciting them if one wishes.

According to authentic narrations, at the end of wudu, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would recite:

أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِى مِنَ التَّوَّابِينَ وَاجْعَلْنِى مِنَ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ

(I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, He is One and has no partner. I also bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger. O Allah! Make me among those who repent and among those who purify themselves.) He gave the glad tidings that whoever recites this supplication after wudu, the eight gates of Paradise will be opened for them and they may enter through whichever they wish.” (Tirmidhi, Taharah, 41 [55])

Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu