UAE Council announces Zakat Al Fitr, Fidyah and Kaffarah rates for Ramadan 2026 after study/Representative Image

As preparations for Ramadan 2026 gather pace, the UAE Council for Islamic Affairs has formally announced the official rates and cash values for Zakat Al Fitr, Fidyah, Kaffarah, and iftar meals for the holy month, corresponding to 1447 Hijri. The figures aim to ensure clarity, fairness, and uniformity for donors and beneficiaries across the country.

Zakat Al Fitr and Fidyah rates for Ramadan 2026

The council confirmed that Zakat Al Fitr is fixed at 2.5 kilograms of rice per person, or a cash equivalent of Dh25. This obligation applies to every eligible Muslim and is intended to support the needy ahead of Eid celebrations.For individuals unable to fast, Fidyah has been set 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.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, with the amount distributed to 60 needy beneficiaries at Dh20 each.For broken oaths, Kaffarah has been set at Dh200, to be shared among 10 beneficiaries.These figures are intended to provide a clear framework for those seeking to fulfil religious obligations correctly and consistently.

How the values were calculated

The council said the decisions were based on a detailed field study carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Economy and Tourism. The study included market inspections, consultations with suppliers, and price surveys of staple food items across all Emirates.According to the authority, standardising these amounts improves efficiency, transparency, and fairness in charitable work, while also ensuring smoother collection and distribution for both individuals and institutions.

Payment timing, cash permissibility and authorised channels

The council recommended that Zakat Al Fitr be paid after the Fajr prayer on Eid day and before sunset, as this best serves those in need during the festivities. Early payment is permitted when necessary, particularly to avoid crowding at charitable organisations. Payments made after sunset are considered Qada, or make-up payments, rather than standard fulfilment. Unjustified delays are 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 that early Muslims were known to give cash alongside food. In modern circumstances, cash contributions often better meet beneficiaries’ needs.Faithful were urged to channel Zakat, Fidyah, and Kaffarah through authorised bodies, including the Zakat Fund under the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the Emirates Red Crescent, and other certified charitable centres 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.