The UAE’s Fatwa Council has announced the official Zakat Al Fitr amount for this Ramadan—AED 25 per person or 2.5kg of rice—a small sum that makes a big impact, benefiting at least two people in need – obligatory for all Muslim men, women, young, and old who have the financial means, before Ramadan ends.
The council has also set the kaffarah (expiation) amounts for missed fasts under different circumstances.
Breaking a Fast Intentionally
Those who break fast intentionally must pay AED 15 per person for 60 poor individuals – totals to a value of AED 900.
Unable to Fast
Those who are unable to fast due must pay AED 15 per person, per missed day.
Missed Fasts of the Deceased
If an individual dies and there were compulsory fasting on them, they must pay AED 15 per missed day – must be paid on behalf of the deceased by closed ones.
Delayed making up missed Fast
Individuals who delay in making up their missed fasts without any excuse, must pay AED 15 per missed day.
Swore a False Oath while Fasting
Those who make oaths during Ramadan while fasting that is not true, must pay AED 15 to 10 poor individuals – AED 150 total – or feed them 3.25kg of wheat each.
If the individual prefers to feed – a value of 3.25 kg of wheat has been set for each person, per day.
A little giving goes a long way—make sure your dues are settled before Eid!
(Contributed by Wajeeha Syed)