UAE sets Zakat, fasting compensation amounts for Ramadan 2026
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The UAE Council for Islamic Affairs on Sunday announced the official values for Zakat Al Fitr, fidyah, kaffarah and iftar meals for Ramadan 2026 (1447 Hijri), setting unified rates to be followed across the country.
For Zakat Al Fitr, the council fixed the amount at 2.5kg of rice per person or a cash value of Dh25. Fidyah for those unable to fast has been set at 3.25kg of barley or Dh20 per person per day. Fidyah related to prohibited acts during Hajj or Umrah was fixed at Dh120, to be distributed among six beneficiaries. The minimum value of an iftar meal has been set at Dh20.
Kaffarah for breaking a fast or a vow was set at Dh1,200 per day, to be distributed to 60 beneficiaries at Dh20 each. Kaffarah for broken oaths was fixed at Dh200, to be distributed to 10 beneficiaries.
The council said the figures were determined following a field study conducted in coordination with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The study included market inspections, consultations with suppliers and price checks of staple food items across all emirates to ensure consistency and fairness for both donors and recipients.
According to the council, fixing standard values helps streamline the collection and distribution of charitable contributions and provides clarity for individuals and institutions during Ramadan.
On the timing of Zakat Al Fitr, the council recommended that it be given after the Fajr prayer on the day of Eid so it reaches those in need during the celebrations. It may be paid earlier if necessary to avoid crowding at charitable centres. Payments made after sunset on Eid day are considered a make-up (Qada) rather than a regular Zakat payment, and delays without valid reasons are discouraged.
The council also confirmed that Zakat Al Fitr may be paid in cash, citing historical precedent from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), when monetary substitutes for staple food items were accepted. It said both food and cash fulfil the obligation, noting that cash contributions are often more practical for beneficiaries today.
Faithful were urged to channel Zakat, Fidyah and Kaffarah contributions through authorised bodies, including the Zakat Fund under the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the Emirates Red Crescent and approved charitable organisations.
The announcement concluded with prayers for a blessed Ramadan, continued prosperity for the UAE and acceptance of charitable acts offered during the holy month.