As millions of refugees endure immense hardship, Zakat is a lifeline that offers them hope and restores their dignity. His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and President of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, reaffirms that the UNHCR Refugee Zakat Fund is Shariah-compliant, ensuring that contributions directly support those most in need. Refugees fall under the Quranic categories of the poor, the needy, and the stranded traveler—making them rightful recipients of Zakat. However, UNHCR relies on …
Author: tamara
“How can I provide a meal for my children this Iftar?” This is the heartbreaking question that haunts Mohammed, an internally displaced father in Yemen. Every day, as the sun sets and families around the world prepare for Iftar, Mohammed and thousands like him wonder if they will have anything to feed their children. “I keep asking myself, how will I bring food? That’s what’s on my mind the whole time.” Ramadan—a month of blessings, forgiveness, and giving—is also a …
In a small home in Damascus, Mustafa sits in silence and remembers the warmth of his family gathered around the dinner table, the rich aroma of Kafta and Kawaj filling the air. These dishes, once a symbol of love and tradition, have now become a distant memory. “I really miss the meat Kafta dish we used to prepare, or the Kawaj dish… Now, none of it is possible,” Mustafa says. “We cook whatever we have.” Life has changed drastically for …
“UNHCR Zakat Fund: Trusted Giving, Real Impact” As Ramadan draws near, your Zakat holds even more significance. The UNHCR Refugee Zakat Fund is the world’s largest refugee-focused Zakat initiative, ensuring Islamic compliance while maximizing impact. Here’s why you can trust us with your Zakat: The First UN Zakat Fund, established in 2017. A Dedicated Islamic Philanthropy Tea,: UNHCR has a team ensuring full compliance with Islamic rulings on Zakat and maximizes its impact for vulnerable refugees worldwide. Largest Zakat fund …
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, announced today a new milestone collaboration between its Refugee Zakat Fund and the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA), an entity of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). In continuation of their support, IIFA will now serve as UNHCR’s Zakat Board, overseeing the external compliance review of the Refugee Zakat Fund, reinforcing UNHCR’s unwavering commitment to transparency and Sharia compliance. Strengthening Compliance and Trust This partnership builds on a five-year collaboration, enhancing Islamic philanthropy efforts for …
Ramadan is a sacred time of reflection, compassion, and generosity. Each year, UNHCR’s Ramadan fundraising campaign draws together a global community dedicated to restoring hope and empowering refugees and internally displaced individuals. Last Ramadan, the remarkable generosity of our supporters provided vital aid to over 208,000 displaced individuals across more than 20 countries through the Refugee Zakat Fund. Your kindness ensured that refugee families enjoyed warm meals and had roofs over their heads, providing them with much-needed relief in their …
It is often said that kindness has the power to change lives.In 2024, your kindness demonstrated how true that is. Your Zakat helped forcibly displaced families secure their most urgent, basic needs. With your support, UNHCR was able to provide over 270,000 individuals with life-saving cash assistance in 2024. The cash assistance they received allowed displaced families to secure a roof over their heads, food on their plates, and the critical healthcare they needed. As a pillar of community support …
At the heart of the UNHCR Zakat App lies an unwavering belief: together, we can create a brighter tomorrow for those in need. The 2024 Islamic Philanthropy mid-year report showcases data that serves as a testament to the extraordinary power of compassion. This year, from January to June, your Zakat and Sadaqah reached more than 108,00 families in dire need of support, delivering life-saving aid, warmth, and hope during their most challenging moments.Each number reflects a story—a mother reassured, a …
As we observe the sacred days of Dhul-Hijjah, we are reminded of the significance and spiritual value of compassion and charitable acts. Extending our kindness and generosity to people in need are rewarded manifold during these blessed days. According to Sahih Al Bukhari, prophet Muhammad, pbuh, said “There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days [first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah].” To mark these blessed days, here are five ways you can extend your support to forcibly …
During these blessed days of Ramadan, our hearts are called to perform acts of compassion and community towards those in need. We remember refugees whose lives, disrupted by conflicts and natural disasters, are marked by loss and uncertainty. And while our homes and tables overflow with joy and togetherness, for refugees, there is often no such place. This year, we send a heartfelt call to extend your Ramadan table to vulnerable refugee and displaced families. Take a look at the …











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