During Ramadan, if you are considering giving Zakat, you may be interested to know that you can conveniently calculate and make your donation through the DubaiNow app.
Digital Dubai, the organization responsible for digitizing government services in the emirate, announced the donation feature on the app through their official social media channels on March 15th.
How is Zakat calculated?
The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD) explains that there are two types of Zakat in Islam: Zakat-al-maal, which is the Zakat on a person’s wealth, and Zakat-al-Fitr, which is specifically linked to Ramadan.
To be eligible for Zakat-al-maal, one must possess a minimum amount of wealth known as ‘Nisab’. According to the Dubai Now app, the Nisab amount is Dh22,291.25. If a Muslim’s wealth exceeds this amount, they are required to pay Zakat.
How to pay Zakat via the DubaiNow App?
Paying Zakat is made easy with the DubaiNow app. Simply sign in with your UAE Pass and follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Log in to the app and set up your payment details. You can easily link your credit card details with the DubaiNow App. If you use Google Pay or Apple Pay, it will automatically be linked for your convenience.
Step 2: To register your payment details, tap on your profile at the bottom of the mobile screen, then select ‘payment details’. Next, tap ‘Add card’ and enter your card number, CVV, expiry month, and set it as your default card.
Step 3: Once your payment details are set up, go back to the home page and click on the heart-shaped icon labeled ‘Donations’.
Step 4: If you know the total amount of Zakat you need to pay, simply type it in the blank space and tap ‘Pay’. If you are unsure, tap on ‘calculate’ at the top right of your mobile screen.
Step 5: The DubaiNow app will prompt you to select the type of calendar you use to calculate Zakat. Choose between the Hijri calendar or the Gregorian calendar based on your preference.
Step 6: After receiving the Zakat amount due, tap on ‘Pay’. You will then receive a confirmation SMS or notification from DubaiNow.
Can one also pay Zakat-al-Fitr with Dubai Now?
In addition to being able to pay Zakat-al-Maal, you can also conveniently pay Zakat-al-fitr using the DubaiNow app. Zakat-al-Fitr is a mandatory contribution given at the end of Ramadan to ensure that no person remains in need on the day of Eid.
The specific amount of Zakat-al-fitr is determined each year during Ramadan by the UAE Fatwa Council. Once the amount for Zakat-al-fitr is announced for the current year, you will have the option to easily make this payment through the DubaiNow app.
How is Zakat Al Fitr paid?
The DubaiNow app has previously clarified that Zakat Al Fitr should be paid for each individual in the household. For example, if there are three people in your household and the amount of Zakat-al-Fitr is Dh25 per person, the total cost for your household would be Dh75.
When should one pay Zakat Al Fitr?
Zakat-al-Fitr should be paid before the Eid Al Fitr prayer. It can also be paid a day or two before Eid. It is recommended to fulfill this obligation in advance to ensure that those in need receive assistance promptly.
Other donation options
The DubaiNow app offers Dubai residents various donation options through registered charities in the UAE. Notable charitable initiatives include the One Billion Meals campaign and the Iftar Meals donation project in partnership with the Dar Al Ber Society.
Also read: Here’s how DubaiNow can help you top up your fuel