Abu Dhabi: The UAE Council for Fatwa has confirmed that Zakat Al Fitr can be given in cash, with a recommended value of AED25 per person for the year 1446 AH. This announcement clarifies the method of fulfilling this religious obligation for Muslims in the region.
According to Emirates News Agency, Zakat Al Fitr is a mandatory obligation for all financially capable Muslims, regardless of age or gender. The head of the household is tasked with fulfilling this obligation on behalf of their spouse, children, and dependents, ensuring that each member is accounted for.
In a statement released ahead of Eid Al Fitr, the Council explained that Zakat Al Fitr is obligatory as per the hadith by Ibn Omar, which states, "Allah's Messenger (PBUH) has made Sadaqat Al Fitr obligatory, (and it was), either one Sa' of barley or one Sa' of dates." This hadith underscores the importance of fulfilling this duty, traditionally through specified food items.
The Council further clarified that the amount for Zakat Al Fitr equates to 2.5 kilogrammes of rice per person. This can be offered either in kind, as rice, or alternatively, in cash, providing flexibility for those fulfilling the obligation.