Dubai’s Grand Mufti confirms that Zakat can be paid to those affected by Covid-19

The Grand Mufti of Dubai has declared that Zakat can be paid towards purchasing meals or providing food parcels to communities that need support through the ’10 million meals’ campaign, news agency WAM reported.

“Zakat can be paid to those affected by the current conditions in the form of food or meals as it fulfills one of the Sharia principles to help the needy,” said Dr Ahmed Al Haddad, Grand Mufti of Dubai and director of the fatwa department at the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai.

He encouraged people across the UAE to support the ’10 million meals’ campaign that will reach families and labourers negatively impacted by the pandemic.

“Vulnerable communities are in critical need for food to maintain their health during their stay at home in this unprecedented crisis,” said Al Haddad.

He noted that providing food as a form of Zakat during Ramadan is particularly important this year as it ensures food security for those in need and provides meals in such trying times.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, launched the ’10 million meals’ campaign, the nation’s biggest food distribution drive, on Sunday to provide food support for those affected by the outbreak.

Read: Sheikh Mohammed announces 10 million Ramadan meals; UAE’s biggest-ever community programme

He added that supporting the Ramadan campaign counts as providing food for those fasting, which accords the same rewards as a person who is fasting.

Read: Ramadan likely to begin on April 24, Eid dates forecast

“Providing meals this year fulfills the Zakat, feeds those fasting and helps the needy,” Al Haddad said.

Every person whose finances permit must help the needy or those affected by the global crisis this year, the director added.

The UAE Food Bank, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, and UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia UAE) will carry out the ’10 million meals’ campaign in collaboration with ministries, federal and local entities and humanitarian and charitable organisations in the UAE.

Donors can purchase meals online at www.10millionmeals.ae to be distributed to disadvantaged individuals and families.

Companies and individuals can also donate through SMS (Etisalat and Du) to numbers listed on the website.

Donors can also make a transfer to ’10 million meals’ campaign bank account at Dubai Islamic Bank.

The Mufti also encouraged people to pray and practice good deeds during the month of Ramadan.

Also read: UAE issues five fatwas regarding Ramadan fasting and prayers amid Covid-19 crisis