Fidya
What is Fidya?
Fidya is a compulsory charitable donation required if you are unable to fast during Ramadan due to valid reasons such as illness, pregnancy, or old age. It allows you to fulfil your religious obligation while supporting those in need.
By paying Fidya, you provide Suhoor and Iftar meals to fasting individuals, relieving hunger and sharing in the rewards of Ramadan. To meet this obligation, the donation should cover the cost of feeding a poor person two whole meals for each missed fast.
How Much is Fidya in Ramadan 2025?
For Ramadan 2025, Fidya is calculated at £5 per missed fast, amounting to a maximum of £150 for the full month. This amount, based on the cost of staple foods, ensures that a person in need receives two nutritious meals each day. The exact cost of Fidya may vary yearly depending on local food prices, so it’s essential to stay updated on the Fidya calculation for the year.
Islamic Fasting Exemptions and Compensations
| Reason For Not Fasting | Qaza (Make-up Fast) | Fidya (Charity) | Kaffara (Penance) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Age (cannot fast at all) | No | Yes | No |
| Old Age (can fast but with difficulty) | No | Yes | No |
| Temporary Illness (e.g., fever, cold, infection) | Yes (within a year) | Yes (if delayed) | No |
| Long-term Illness (e.g., diabetes) | No | Yes | No |
| Pregnancy | Yes | No | No |
| Nursing a Child | Yes | No | No |
| Traveling beyond Hadd-e Tarakkhus* | |||
| 1. Starting before Zuhr | Fast Normally | No | No |
| 2. Starting after Zuhr | Fast Normally | N/A | N/A |
| 3. Staying < 10 days at destination | Fast Normally | No | No |
| 4. Staying ≥ 10 days at destination | Fast Normally | N/A | N/A |
| 5. “Frequent Traveler” | Fast Normally | N/A | N/A |
| Negligence (intentionally breaking fast) | Yes | No | Yes |
Key:
- Qaza: Making up missed fasts later.
- Fidya: Charitable donation for those permanently unable to fast.
- Kaffara: Severe penance for intentionally breaking a fast without a valid reason.
- N/A: Not Applicable.
Important Notes:
- Hadd-e Tarakkhus refers to the distance that allows one to shorten prayers and break the fast while traveling.
- This table represents a general overview. Specific rulings may vary based on Islamic schools of thought.
- Consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar for personalized guidance.
Am I Eligible to Pay Fidya?
You may need to pay Fidya if you missed fasting during Ramadan and are unable to make up the missed fasts due to:
- Chronic illness or medical conditions
- Pregnancy or nursing
- Old age
- Other valid reasons preventing fasting.
If you fall into these categories, calculate and make your Fidya payment today to help alleviate hunger and fulfil your obligation.
What If I Miss a Fast Without a Valid Reason?
If you miss a fast without a valid reason, you are not eligible to pay Fidya. Instead, you are required to pay Kaffarah, which involves either fasting for 60 continuous days or feeding 60 poor individuals for each missed day. Learn more about Kaffarah and its requirements on our dedicated page.
Why Is Fidya Important?
Hunger remains a daily reality for millions worldwide, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and rising global costs. Your Fidya donation can provide hope and relief to those facing unimaginable hardships.
When you pay Fidya, your contribution funds:
- Food packs with staple items
- Nutritious meals for the sick and vulnerable
- Suhoor and Iftar for fasting individuals.
In a time when so many go without, your support can bring strength, energy and renewed hope to those in desperate need.
Make Your Fidya Payment Today
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Whoever gives Iftar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without that detracting from the reward of the fasting person in the slightest.” (Tirmidhi)
This Ramadan, ensure your Fidya 2025 donation reaches those in most need. Let your generosity bring joy, comfort and life-saving nourishment to families worldwide.
