Emirates Iftaa: 900 Dirhams Expiation for this reason
The Fatwa No. (05) of the year 1445 AH/2024, which covers the determination of zakat al-Fitr, expiations, and breakfast provisions for fasting individuals, is a comprehensive document produced by the Emirates Council for Sharia Fatwa.
This fatwa is the result of in-depth market research for the current year and on-site evaluations of commercial markets to determine average prices while accounting for local market changes. Its goal is to establish zakat sums that are uniform for all state-level charity organizations and institutions throughout the fasting month of Ramadan.
In the fatwa, the Council clarifies that zakat al-Fitr is obligatory for all Muslims, irrespective of age or gender, who are financially capable. The prescribed amount is 2.5 kilograms of rice per person, which can be paid either in rice or in cash, with a cash value of 25 dirhams per individual. It's recommended to pay zakat al-Fitr after dawn on Eid day to fulfill the objectives of Sharia law in supporting the poor during Eid. Alternatively, it can be paid earlier in the month to prevent accumulation by charitable organizations. Delaying payment until Eid morning is permissible, but negligence in timing is discouraged.
The fatwa also addresses the ransom for fasting for those unable to fast, set at feeding a poor person with 3.25 kilograms of wheat per day, or its cash equivalent of 15 dirhams per day. The expiation for intentionally breaking a Ramadan fast without a valid excuse involves feeding 60 poor individuals, with each receiving 3.25 kilograms of wheat or its cash equivalent of 15 dirhams. The total amount for breaking a one-day fast is 900 Emirati dirhams.
Additionally, the fatwa stipulates expiations for zihar and swearing an oath, both involving feeding poor individuals or their cash equivalent. In the case of zihar, 60 poor individuals are to be fed, while for swearing an oath, 10 poor individuals are to be fed, with specific amounts allocated per person. Regarding atonement for individuals who die while obligated to fast or delay making up Ramadan fasts without a valid excuse until the next Ramadan, the Council prescribes feeding a poor person with 3.25 kilograms of wheat per day or its cash equivalent of 15 dirhams per day, totaling the minimum amount for breaking a fast.
