UAE Council for Islamic Affairs Announces Official Ramadan 2026 Charity Rates
As preparations for the holy month of Ramadan 2026 intensify, the UAE Council for Islamic Affairs has formally unveiled the official rates and cash values for key religious obligations. The announcement covers Zakat Al Fitr, Fidyah, Kaffarah, and iftar meals, corresponding to the Hijri year 1447. These standardized figures are designed to ensure clarity, fairness, and uniformity for both donors and beneficiaries throughout the United Arab Emirates.
Zakat Al Fitr and Fidyah Rates for Ramadan 2026
The council has confirmed that Zakat Al Fitr is fixed at 2.5 kilograms of rice per person, with a cash equivalent of Dh25. This mandatory obligation applies to every eligible Muslim and serves to support needy individuals ahead of Eid celebrations.
For those unable to fast, Fidyah has been established at 3.25 kilograms of wheat or barley per beneficiary per day, or Dh20 in cash. The same Dh20 per person rate applies to Fidyah feeding cases.
Additionally, Fidyah for prohibited acts during Hajj or Umrah has been determined at Dh120, to be distributed among six beneficiaries. The council also confirmed that the minimum value of an iftar meal for a fasting individual during Ramadan is Dh20 per meal.
Kaffarah Amounts for Missed Fasts and Broken Vows
Kaffarah for invalidating a fast during Ramadan or breaking a vow has been fixed at Dh1,200 per day. This amount is to be distributed to 60 needy beneficiaries at Dh20 each. For broken oaths, Kaffarah has been set at Dh200, to be shared among 10 beneficiaries.
These precise figures aim to provide a clear and consistent framework for Muslims seeking to fulfill their religious obligations correctly.
How the Values Were Calculated
The council stated that these decisions were based on a comprehensive field study conducted in coordination with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The study included:
- Market inspections across all Emirates
- Consultations with suppliers and stakeholders
- Detailed price surveys of staple food items
According to the authority, standardizing these amounts enhances efficiency, transparency, and fairness in charitable activities. It also ensures smoother collection and distribution processes for both individuals and institutions.
Payment Timing, Cash Permissibility, and Authorized Channels
The council recommended that Zakat Al Fitr be paid after the Fajr prayer on Eid day and before sunset, as this timing best serves those in need during the festivities. Early payment is permitted when necessary, particularly to avoid crowding at charitable organizations. Payments made after sunset are considered Qada, or make-up payments, rather than standard fulfillment. Unjustified delays are strongly discouraged.
Cash payment of Zakat Al Fitr has been deemed permissible, based on historical precedent. The council noted that the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, approved monetary substitutes for staple foods, and early Muslims were known to give cash alongside food. In modern circumstances, cash contributions often better meet the specific needs of beneficiaries.
Faithful individuals are urged to channel their Zakat, Fidyah, and Kaffarah through authorized bodies, including:
- The Zakat Fund under the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments
- The Emirates Red Crescent
- Other certified charitable centers and associations across the UAE
The announcement concluded with prayers for a blessed Ramadan, continued prosperity for the UAE, and acceptance of the faithful's charitable contributions.
