What is the ruling on a traveler performing an early combination (jama' taqdim) of prayers if he predominantly expects to catch the second prayer in his hometown, and what are the implications of his arrival while it is being performed in the mosques?

As long as a person is traveling, they are permitted to combine prayers, even if they know they will arrive before the time for the second obligatory prayer begins. Nevertheless, it is preferable in this situation not to combine prayers except out of need. However, if they do combine, there is no harm, and if they arrive before the time for the second prayer begins, their obligation has been fulfilled.