فطرة

Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr)

🔊 Pronunciation: fit-RA-na

Obligatory charity paid before the Eid al-Fitr prayer to purify the fast and provide food for the poor.

Fitrana (Arabic: Zakat al-Fitr or Sadaqat al-Fitr) is an obligatory act of charity that every Muslim must fulfil before the Eid al-Fitr prayer at the conclusion of Ramadan.

The Purpose of Fitrana

Fitrana serves a dual purpose in Islamic law:

  1. Purification of the fast — It cleanses the fasting person from any shortcomings such as idle talk or minor lapses during Ramadan
  2. Provision for the poor — It ensures that everyone, including the most vulnerable, can partake in the joy of Eid

Who Must Pay?

Every Muslim who possesses food or wealth beyond their basic needs on the day of Eid must pay Fitrana — for themselves and every dependant in their household. This includes young children, elderly parents, and anyone the person financially supports.

How Much Is Fitrana?

The amount is traditionally one sa’ (roughly 2.5–3 kg) of the staple food of the land. In the UK, scholars have estimated this at approximately £5 per person.

When to Pay

Fitrana must be paid before the Eid prayer. Many scholars recommend paying it during the last few days of Ramadan to ensure it reaches recipients in time. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that Fitrana paid after the Eid prayer is merely regular Sadaqah, not the obligatory Fitrana.

Fitrana vs Fidya vs Kaffarah

These three are often confused but are entirely distinct:

  • Fitrana — obligatory on all Muslims before Eid, regardless of whether they fasted
  • Fidya — compensation for those unable to fast (~£5/day)
  • Kaffarah — expiation for deliberately breaking a fast (~£300/day)

Pay Your Fitrana

Ensure your Fitrana reaches those in need before Eid. Give through our Fitrana project — just £5 per person. All donations are delivered with our 100% donation policy.

Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: "The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) ordained Zakat al-Fitr to purify the fasting person from idle talk and obscene conduct, and to provide food for the poor." (Abu Dawud)

Put This Into Practice

Obligatory charity before Eid prayer — purifies your fast and feeds the poor.

Donate £5 per person →