In a major shift aimed at enhancing fairness and fulfilling the true essence of Zakat, the Maldives Zakat House has introduced a new policy to ensure equal distribution of Zakat al-Fitr to all individuals registered as poor and needy across the country. This is the first time in the Maldives that Zakat al-Fitr will be distributed equally, regardless of regional or island-based collections.
As per the revised policy, every eligible individual on the Maldives Zakat House’s official registry will receive MVR 4,500 (approximately USD 292) during Ramadan 1446. A total of 2,765 registered recipients will benefit from this new approach, which aims to promote social equity and eliminate disparities in Zakat distribution.
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, stated that the adjustment was made to strengthen social justice and to align the distribution of Zakat with its fundamental purpose supporting the financial needs of the less fortunate. He noted that the previous method, where Zakat collected from each island was distributed solely to the needy on that island, had led to imbalances. People in smaller communities often received significantly less due to limited collections.
Under this new policy, for the first time in the nation’s history, all recipients irrespective of their geographic location will receive the same amount of Zakat al-Fitr. The final list of eligible individuals was updated on the 1st of Ramadan 1446, following a thorough review by the Zakat House.
As of Friday, 28th March 2025, a total of MVR 12.6 million (USD 817,120.62) had been collected in Zakat al-Fitr contributions since the start of Ramadan. Dr. Shaheem credited ongoing awareness campaigns, the transparency and efficiency of Zakat collection and distribution mechanisms and structural reforms implemented by the current administration for the rise in contributions over the past year.
In addition to monetary payouts, the Maldives Zakat House also announced the distribution of staple food items collected as Zakat al-Fitr. The distribution will begin on Friday at Iskandhar School in Malé City. It will take place in scheduled sessions between 2:00pm – 4:30pm and 9:30pm – 11:00pm on Friday, followed by additional hours on Saturday from 10:00 am– 12:00pm, and 1:00pm – 3:00pm.
Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory charitable contribution for all Muslims and was established during the second year of Hijra. It serves as a form of purification and assistance for those in need at the end of Ramadan. Eligibility to pay is determined by one’s ability to provide basic necessities for themselves and their dependents on the day and night of Eid.
Zakat al-Fitr payments can be made until 6:00pm on the last day of Ramadan. Contributors may choose from online platforms such as Bandeyri Pay or FahiPay to submit their contributions conveniently.
The Maldives Zakat House continues its mission to uphold the principles of Islamic charity through more transparent, consistent, and impactful distribution methods, ensuring that no one in need is left behind.
advertisment
advertisment
