Zakat Al-Fitr was legislated in the second year of Hijra, the same year in which fasting during Ramadan was also made obligatory. As we approach the end of Ramadan, questions about the amount of Zakat Al-Fitr for 2025 arise. The Saudi Fatwa Authority has announced all the details about Zakat Al-Fitr, both in terms of monetary value and food donations, to assist families in need, as well as the correct timing for its payment to ensure it is performed as an act of worship before Eid Al-Fitr.
What is Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr is a significant Islamic obligation required from every Muslim who is an adult, sane, and free. It is one of the most important practices during Ramadan, and it must be given before sunset on the last day of Ramadan. Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim, male or female, young or old. Its purpose is to purify the fast of any inappropriate behavior and to provide food for the poor and needy on the day of Eid. It serves as a way to bring the community together, helping the less fortunate and promoting social solidarity and compassion. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Zakat Al-Fitr is a purification for the fasting person from any indecent act or speech and is to provide food for the poor. Whoever gives it before the prayer, it is an accepted Zakat, and whoever gives it after the prayer, it is just a regular charity."
How to Pay Zakat Al-Fitr
Zakat Al-Fitr is typically paid in the form of food that is commonly consumed in the community, such as dates, rice, or other staples. The required amount is one "sa'a" (a traditional measurement) per individual, which is roughly equivalent to 2.5 kilograms of food. If paid in monetary form, the amount is calculated by determining the equivalent value of the food amount (the price of one sa'a of the staple food). Zakat can be paid through licensed charity organizations or official electronic platforms that ensure the funds reach the right beneficiaries.
Amount of Zakat Al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia 2025
The amount of Zakat Al-Fitr is based on the price of a "sa'a" of grains, with one sa'a being approximately 2.5 to 3 kilograms of food, such as rice or wheat. Since wheat is a staple food, the monetary value is usually calculated by the market price of this staple. To calculate the total amount for a family, the number of individuals in the household should be multiplied by the cost of one sa'a of food.
When to Pay Zakat Al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia 2025
According to Islamic teachings, the time for paying Zakat Al-Fitr starts from sunset on the last day of Ramadan until the time of Eid prayer. It is recommended to give it in the last few days of Ramadan to ensure it reaches the recipients on time. According to the fatwa of Sheikh Ibn Baz, the former Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, the most appropriate time to give it is on the 28th night of Ramadan, as the month could be 29 or 30 days long. During the time of the Prophet’s companions, they would typically give Zakat Al-Fitr one or two days before Eid.
Who is Eligible for Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr is distributed to the poor and those in need, particularly those unable to meet their basic needs such as food, drink, and clothing. It helps support individuals and families who are financially struggling.
Who Must Pay Zakat Al-Fitr?
Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim who is able to give. It serves as a way to assist the poor and promote social welfare. According to Sheikh Ibn Baz, Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory for all Muslims, regardless of age, gender, or social status, as it was prescribed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who said: "Zakat Al-Fitr is obligatory on every Muslim, male or female, young or old, free or slave." This includes infants and even the unborn child in the mother’s womb.
Zakat Al-Fitr is a fundamental part of Ramadan and plays a significant role in fostering unity, charity, and mutual care within the Muslim community.
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