Zakat is an obligatory contribution used to reduce the hardships faced by communities and families living in poverty. Our Zakat donation guide will answer all your questions on the basics of Zakat including who is eligible to pay it, who is eligible to receive it and when you are expected to pay Zakat each year. For any further questions, you should seek advice from your local imam or scholar.

Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam in addition to faith (Shahada), prayer (Salat), fasting (Sawm) and pilgrimage (Hajj). The Five Pillars are considered the fundamental beliefs and practices of the Islamic faith and should influence a Muslim’s everyday obligations. A Muslim who lives their life according to the Five Pillars is considered to be living the best life possible, responsible for their faith and good to their community.

Zakat, or charity, is defined as the purification of held wealth. Zakat is a donation which is made once a year when certain conditions are met and held for a full Islamic year.

Your Zakat donation is distributed by HHA to those who are most vulnerable, including impoverished children living in famine, families living in conflict and anyone less fortunate.

“As-Sadaqat (Zakat) are only for the Fuqara’ (poor), and Al-Masakin (the needy) and those employed to collect (Zakat funds); and for to attract the hearts of those who have been inclined (towards Islam); and to free the captives; and for those in debt; and for Allah’s Cause (i.e. for Mujahidun – those fighting in the holy wars), and for the wayfarer (a traveller who is cut off from everything); a duty imposed by Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.” – Chapter at-Tawbah Tevbe, 60