Every year as Ramadan comes to a close, one question echoes through WhatsApp groups and family gatherings across the UAE: how much is Fitrana this year? Fitrana, also known as Zakat Al Fitr, is a mandatory charity that every Muslim must give before the Eid Al Fitr prayer.
What Is Fitrana?
Fitrana is a flat charitable amount given per person in the household before Eid prayer. Unlike regular Zakat which is based on wealth, Fitrana applies to everyone. It purifies the fasting person from shortcomings during Ramadan and ensures that even the poorest members of society can enjoy Eid.
How Much Is Fitrana in UAE 2026?
The Fitrana amount in the UAE for 2026 is approximately AED 20 to AED 25 per person. This is based on the cost of one Saa (approximately 2.5 to 3 kilograms) of the staple food in the region.
| Food Item | Quantity (1 Saa) | Approximate Value |
|---|---|---|
| Rice (standard) | 2.5 - 3 kg | AED 20 |
| Rice (premium basmati) | 2.5 - 3 kg | AED 25 |
| Dates | 2.5 - 3 kg | AED 35 - 50 |
| Wheat/Flour | 2.5 - 3 kg | AED 15 |
Most scholars in the UAE recommend AED 25 per person to be on the safe side.
Who Must Pay Fitrana?
- Every Muslim who has food in excess of their needs for Eid day
- Head of household pays for spouse, children, and dependent parents
- Children: Even for newborn babies born before Eid prayer
- Domestic workers: Many scholars recommend paying for Muslim household staff
Quick Calculation
Family of 5 (husband, wife, 3 children): 5 x AED 25 = AED 125 total
When Should You Pay?
- Best time: One or two days before Eid so recipients can use it for celebrations
- Deadline: Before Eid prayer begins. After Eid prayer, it counts as regular charity only
- For Eid 2026: Pay by Wednesday March 18 or Thursday March 19 at the latest
Where to Pay Fitrana in UAE
- Emirates Red Crescent: Online at rcuae.ae, distributes across UAE and internationally
- Beit Al Khair Society: Online and at collection points across UAE
- Dubai Charity Association: Local distribution
- Local Mosques: Many collect Fitrana during the last days of Ramadan
- IACAD (Dubai): Islamic Affairs department facilitates collection
Cash or Food?
The Hanafi school permits cash, which is most practical in the UAE. Other schools prefer food items. Most UAE charitable organizations accept cash and convert to food parcels, which is widely accepted by scholars here.
People Also Ask
Is Fitrana the same as Zakat?
No. Regular Zakat is 2.5% of savings above the Nisab threshold. Fitrana is a fixed amount per person regardless of wealth. Both are obligatory but separate.
Do I pay Fitrana for my unborn child?
If the baby has not been born before Eid prayer, it is not obligatory but recommended as voluntary charity.
What if I forgot to pay before Eid prayer?
Pay as soon as you remember. While it may not count as Fitrana technically, it remains charitable and you should still give it.
Is Fitrana per person or per family?
Per person. Every individual in the household counts.