Pakistan Announces Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya Amounts for Ramadan 2026

Islamabad: As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Pakistan’s religious authorities have officially announced the Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya amounts for Ramadan 2026, providing clarity for millions of Muslims preparing to observe fasting and fulfill their religious duties. The announcement aims to guide citizens in calculating their charitable obligations in accordance with Islamic principles and prevailing economic conditions.

The decision was finalized after consultations with Islamic scholars, economists, and market experts, taking into account the rising cost of essential food items and inflationary pressures affecting daily life across the country.

Understanding Sadqa-e-Fitr

Sadqa-e-Fitr, also known as Zakat-ul-Fitr, is a mandatory charity paid by Muslims at the end of Ramadan before the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer. It is intended to purify the fast from shortcomings and to help the underprivileged celebrate Eid with dignity.

According to religious guidelines, Sadqa-e-Fitr must be paid on behalf of every family member, including children, and can be given in the form of staple food items or their cash equivalent.

For Ramadan 2026, authorities have announced multiple rates based on commonly consumed food commodities, allowing people to contribute according to their financial capacity.

Official Sadqa-e-Fitr Rates for Ramadan 2026

The minimum Sadqa-e-Fitr amount has been calculated based on the price of wheat, which remains the most affordable staple. However, higher rates have been suggested for those who wish to give according to better-quality food items.

The announced per-person rates are as follows:

Wheat: Minimum rate (for low-income households)

Barley: Moderate category

Dates: Higher contribution level

Raisins: Premium category for affluent individuals

Religious scholars emphasize that those who can afford it should opt for the higher categories to maximize social benefit and support families struggling with food insecurity.

Fidya for Missed Fasts Explained

Fidya is paid by individuals who are unable to fast during Ramadan due to valid reasons such as chronic illness or old age, with no expectation of being able to make up the fasts later. The Fidya amount is equivalent to feeding one needy person for each missed fast.

For Ramadan 2026, the Fidya rates have been aligned with Sadqa-e-Fitr categories, ensuring consistency and fairness.

Scholars clarify that Fidya must be paid for each missed fast separately and should ideally be distributed during Ramadan to support those in need when food expenses are highest.

Rising Costs Influence the New Rates

This year’s announcement reflects growing economic realities. Inflation in food prices has made it increasingly difficult for low-income families to meet basic needs, prompting authorities to reassess charity thresholds.

“The purpose of Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya is not symbolic—it is practical,” said a senior religious scholar. “It ensures that no one goes hungry on Eid and that the spirit of Ramadan extends beyond personal worship.”

Economists involved in the consultation process noted that adjusting rates annually is essential to preserve the real value of charitable giving.

Who Is Required to Pay

Sadqa-e-Fitr is obligatory for every Muslim who possesses wealth beyond basic necessities at the time of Eid. Heads of households are responsible for paying on behalf of dependents, including children and elderly family members.

Fidya applies only to those permanently unable to fast. Individuals who miss fasts temporarily due to illness or travel must make up those fasts later and are not required to pay Fidya unless fasting becomes impossible.

When and How to Pay

Religious authorities strongly recommend paying Sadqa-e-Fitr before the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer, as delaying it reduces its spiritual and social purpose. Fidya, on the other hand, may be paid throughout Ramadan.

Charity organizations, mosques, and welfare institutions across Pakistan have already begun collecting funds, offering both cash and food distribution options. Many organizations have also introduced digital payment methods to make contributions easier and more transparent.

Encouraging Responsible Distribution

Scholars have urged citizens to ensure that their contributions reach genuinely deserving individuals. Priority should be given to:

Widows and orphans

Daily wage workers

Elderly individuals without family support

Families facing food insecurity

“Ramadan teaches empathy,” said a community welfare organizer. “These contributions are not just obligations—they are lifelines for millions.”

Public Response and Awareness

The announcement has sparked widespread discussion, particularly on social media, where users are sharing rate breakdowns and encouraging higher contributions. Many citizens have welcomed the clarity, while others have called for greater awareness campaigns to ensure proper understanding of religious rulings.

Religious institutions have announced plans to address the topic in Friday sermons, helping people differentiate between Zakat, Sadqa-e-Fitr, and Fidya.

A Reminder of Ramadan’s True Spirit

As Pakistan prepares for Ramadan 2026, the announcement of Sadqa-e-Fitr and Fidya amounts serves as a reminder that fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink but also about compassion, generosity, and social responsibility.

In a time of economic hardship, these acts of charity carry even greater significance—bridging gaps, easing suffering, and reinforcing the values of unity and care that define the holy month.