UAE Islamic Affairs Council Announces Zakat al-Fitr, Fidyah, Kaffarah, and Iftar Rates for Ramadan 2026
DUBAI: The **UAE Council of Islamic Affairs** has announced standard rates for **Zakat al-Fitr (Sadaqat al-Fitr), Fidyah, Kaffarah, and Iftar meals** for Ramadan 2026. According to the council, every eligible person must pay Zakat al-Fitr, which can be fulfilled either by giving **2.5 kilograms of rice** or its **cash equivalent of AED 25**.
For individuals unable to fast, Fidyah has been set at **3.25 kilograms of barley** or **AED 20 per day**. For prohibited acts during Hajj or Umrah, Fidyah is **AED 120**, to be distributed among six deserving recipients.
To facilitate Iftar, a **minimum daily amount of AED 20** has been recommended, enabling fasting individuals to break their fast comfortably while helping the needy in a dignified manner.
Kaffarah for breaking a fast or failing to fulfill vows is set at **AED 1,200 per day**, to be distributed among **60 eligible recipients at AED 20 each**, while Kaffarah for broken promises amounts to **AED 200**, to be divided among ten deserving individuals.
The council stated that these rates were determined after comprehensive research and a market survey, in consultation with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The aim is to ensure timely assistance to beneficiaries while making the process transparent and convenient for donors.
Zakat al-Fitr should ideally be paid **after Fajr on Eid day** so that recipients can enjoy the celebrations, though early payment is permitted to avoid overcrowding at charitable institutions. Payments made after sunset are considered Qada (late), and unjustified delay is discouraged.
The council also emphasized that **cash payments for Zakat al-Fitr are valid** and are often the most practical method in current circumstances, allowing aid to reach recipients directly. All payments for Zakat al-Fitr, Fidyah, and Kaffarah should be made through authorized organizations, including the **Zakat Fund under the General Authority of Islamic Affairs & Endowments**, **Emirates Red Crescent**, and other certified charitable centers.
