The Maldives Zakat House has expanded its collection methods for Zakat al-Fitr, introducing cash and debit card payment options to complement existing digital platforms.
Officials stated that the move is intended to accommodate citizens who are less familiar with online payment systems, ensuring contributions can be made through both physical and digital channels nationwide.
In Malé, service counters have been established at the conference hall of the Islamic Centre, where payments are currently being accepted. From 22 February to 9 March, counters will operate on non-public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Between 10 March and 19 March, operating hours will shift to 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., excluding Fridays and Saturdays.
In the outer atolls, residents may submit contributions through local council offices using the Fitr Portal, a digital system that records payments made in cash or grain. Contributors receive SMS confirmations detailing the Zakat amount and any additional charitable donations, including Sadaqah.
The physical payment option supplements the digital-first system introduced at the start of Ramadan. Citizens can fulfil their obligations through seven platforms: Dhiraagu mobile application and Dhiraagu Pay website, Ooredoo m-Faisaa, Maldives Islamic Bank and Bank of Maldives mobile applications, FahiPay, Avas mobile application, and Bandeyri Pay website. Bandeyri Pay and FahiPay will accept payments until the final day of Ramadan, while other platforms will close at 6:00 a.m. on 27 Ramadan.
The mandatory Zakat al-Fitr contribution is calculated based on the staple food consumed by each household. Rates range from USD 0.65 for standard flour and USD 0.78 for standard rice to USD 8.82 for the highest grade of basmati rice.
Zakat al-Fitr, prescribed in the second year of the Hijri calendar, is distributed exclusively to individuals formally registered during the designated enrolment period, providing essential assistance to those in need at the conclusion of Ramadan.