Cow Share Qurbani: How It Works, Is It Valid, and Best Options

What is a Cow Share Qurbani?

A cow share allows up to 7 people to share one cow for their Qurbani, each paying one-seventh of the total cost. Each person receives the full reward of a Qurbani sacrifice, just as if they had sacrificed an individual animal.

This is based on the authentic hadith narrated by Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him): “We sacrificed along with the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) in the year of Hudaibiyah. We shared a camel among seven and a cow among seven.” (Muslim)

Is Cow Share Valid According to All Schools?

Yes. All four Sunni schools of jurisprudence agree that sharing a cow among up to 7 people is valid for Qurbani:

• Hanafi: Valid. Each share must be at least one-seventh.
• Shafi: Valid. Each participant must have the intention of Qurbani.
• Maliki: Valid with conditions around the intention of the participants.
• Hanbali: Valid. Up to 7 shares per cow or camel.

How Much Does a Cow Share Cost?

Cow share prices with Muslims In Need in 2026:

• India (cheapest): Cow £95 → 1/7 share approx. £14
• Somalia: Cow £800 → 1/7 share £115
• Tanzania: Cow £600 → 1/7 share £86
• Mauritania: Cow £475 → 1/7 share £68
• Syria: Cow £1,400 → 1/7 share £200

See all prices on our comparison table.

Can Family Members Share One Cow?

Absolutely. A household of 4 adults could give 4 shares of the same cow, with the remaining 3 shares allocated to other donors. Each family member fulfils their individual Qurbani obligation through their share.

Use our Family Qurbani Bundle to give multiple shares in one transaction.

Cow Share vs Individual Sheep: Which is Better?

Both are equally valid for fulfilling the Qurbani obligation. However, there are practical differences:

• Cow share produces more meat overall, feeding more families per sacrifice.
• Individual sheep allows you to target a specific country and have the full animal sacrificed for you.
• Cost: Cow shares can be significantly cheaper per person (from £14 vs £40 for the cheapest sheep).

The Prophet (peace be upon him) sacrificed sheep for his own Qurbani but also authorised cow and camel sharing. Both are established Sunnah.