Saudi online platforms are making it easier for Muslims to pay Zakat al-Fitr as Islam’s holy month of fasting, Ramadan, wraps up.
This mandatory contribution of food or money before Eid al-Fitr prayers helps the needy and ensures fair distribution. Eid al-Fitr begins on Wednesday.
Experts speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat confirmed that these digital services meet people’s needs efficiently and securely, providing a trusted way to fulfill Zakat al-Fitr.
Dr. Mohammed bin Duleim Al-Qahtani, an economic analyst and academic at King Faisal University, highlighted Saudi Arabia’s move toward automating its operations, including charity distribution, via platforms like “Ehsan.”
This ensures speedy and fair delivery of Zakat al-Fitr to needy families.
Al-Qahtani stressed that government oversight of e-payments and local markets helps stabilize prices and ensures fair distribution of funds.
The analyst also noted that 80% of Saudis prefer electronic Zakat payments for its efficiency and fairness.
The average contribution is around SAR 21 per person, totaling about SAR 315 million ($84 million) annually, benefiting some 52,000 needy families.
Dr. Salem Bajaja, an academic at King Abdulaziz University, highlighted the government’s efforts through the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority to encourage timely and proper Zakat payments, including Zakat al-Fitr, using the Ehsan platform.
He noted that this ensures that Zakat reaches the right beneficiaries, as outlined in the holy Quran.
The Ehsan platform recently began digital collection of Zakat al-Fitr in April, ensuring its distribution to recipients across the Kingdom.
Zakat al-Fitr payments are part of the National Charity Campaign’s fourth edition, aiming to empower society and fulfill religious duties. Through the Ehsan platform, donors specify recipients and regions for distribution.
The Ehsan platform promotes humanitarian values and transparency in charitable work. It also aids non-profit organizations in resource development and facilitates donations.
