JEDDAH: With Eid just around the corner, Muslims are rushing to give Zakat Al-Fitr, a charitable donation that must be offered at the end of Ramadan before the Eid prayers.
The Zakat Al-Fitr is paid on behalf of each member of the family. It is a fixed amount determined by scholars and is usually paid in the form of wheat or rice. The practice ensures that even the poorest of people have the means to be able to enjoy the celebrations.
Before COVID-19, Zakat Al-Fitr was collected through booths set up in public areas such as malls, mosques and charity offices. Today, it can be paid online through credible platforms such as Zakaty, or other organizations, making it convenient for families to pay the charity on time.
Royal Council consultant and member of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Abdullah Al-Mutlaq, urged donors to use Zakaty to pay Zakat Al-Fitr.
Ahmed Al-Omari, a 49-year-old father, told Arab News that he used to donate his Zakat Al-Fitr through charities, but since 2020, has been using an accredited platform.
He said: “Donating electronically is the right thing to do as it makes sure your donation goes to the right people.”
Hamid Al-Attawi, a private sector employee, hailed the services and platforms as easy to use, trustworthy and accurate in delivering zakat.
“The digital services provided either by the government or well-known charities made me and other people ensure that their contributions will go to eligible people under the surveillance of the government,” he said.
Syrian resident Abdul Latif Farahan said that performing Zakat Al-Fitr required much effort in the past, as people needed to travel to markets, buy zakat and then distribute it. But now, he added, the process can be completed in just two minutes.
“This is my first year to donate my Zakat Al-Fitr via an electronic platform. I really find it safe, reliable and easier than any other way,” he said.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has set up charity counters in public places to enable Muslims to give their charity during the last days of Ramadan. The charity counters can be found throughout the Kingdom in all major malls, public marketplaces and popular locations.
