What Is Zakat and Why Was It Established?
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, a fundamental duty for every eligible Muslim. It is an obligatory act of worship designed to purify one’s wealth and support those in need. But can Zakat be given to Muslims in other countries? Absolutely. Let’s explore why Zakat is universal and why borders do not limit its impact.
Zakat is a form of charity that purifies wealth, redistributes economic resources, and uplifts the less fortunate. It is not merely an act of kindness but a divine obligation ordained by Allah. The Quran states:
“Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [ Allah ‘s blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.” (Surah At-Tawbah 9:103)
Zakat is meant to eliminate poverty, strengthen social bonds, and ensure that wealth circulates within the Muslim Ummah. It is a system that transcends political boundaries and economic barriers.
Do Borders Matter When Giving Zakat?
Borders and country names exist in today’s world, but they have changed multiple times throughout history. However, the essence of Islam remains unchanged. Islam unites us as one Ummah, where all Muslims are interconnected by faith and Ukhuwwah (brotherhood and sisterhood).
Allah reminds us:
“The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.” (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:10)
This means that a Muslim’s responsibility does not stop at their national boundary. If a Muslim is suffering in another country, we have a duty to assist them, whether they are in Palestine, Africa, or anywhere else in the world.
Can You Send Zakat to Muslims in Other Countries?
Yes, you can. If you are a Muslim in England, France, or Germany, you can send your Zakat to orphaned children in war-torn Palestine or to struggling families in Africa. If you are in India, the Emirates, or Kuwait, you can give your Zakat to support Muslims in need, regardless of where they are.
Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) allows Zakat to be distributed wherever there is need, particularly when local Muslims have sufficient resources while others elsewhere are suffering. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of assisting fellow Muslims, regardless of distance.
“The believers, in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy, are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever.” (Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)
If Muslims in a particular region have excess Zakat while others are in dire need, it is not only permissible but necessary to send help where it is most required.
How Cryptocurrency Makes Giving Zakat Easier
In today’s digital era, cryptocurrency provides an efficient way to send Zakat across borders. It allows Muslims to support the needy in real time, ensuring that funds reach the most vulnerable quickly and securely. By leveraging blockchain technology, we can distribute Zakat to orphaned children, displaced Palestinian families, and struggling Muslims in Africa without delays or excessive fees.
Some Muslims prefer to calculate their Zakat manually to ensure accuracy in fulfilling their obligation. If you have already determined the amount due, you can pay your Zakat instantly through this link.
Others, recognizing the immense blessings of Ramadan, choose to donate their Zakat specifically during this sacred month to support those in need. If you wish to give your Zakat for Ramadan, you can do so here and help provide relief to the less fortunate during this blessed time.
Can I Help Other Countries Anonymously?
Yes. Of course, we are very happy if donors enter their personal information such as email so that we can send them confirmation of their deposit and also reports of charitable deeds. On the other hand, we have a strict personal information privacy policy and the information of individuals is kept in trust with us and we do not provide it to others, but still some donors are interested in fully protecting their personal information and helping anonymously. We respect this category of donors and they can pay Zakat completely anonymously or give their Zakat to the needy in other countries.
Islam Sees No Borders—Neither Should Our Charity
In Islam, nationality, race, and color do not determine a person’s worth. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab, nor for a non-Arab over an Arab; neither is the white superior over the black nor the black superior over the white—except by piety and good action.” (Musnad Ahmad)
The concept of Ukhuwwah teaches us that all Muslims are one family. If your brother or sister is in need, you do not hesitate to help simply because they live in another country.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can and should give Zakat to Muslims in other countries. Islam promotes unity and mutual aid, and in times of hardship, our Zakat should go where it is needed the most. Whether you are in Europe, the Middle East, or Asia, your Zakat can uplift lives, support families, and strengthen our Ummah.
With today’s technology, donating Zakat has never been easier. Through cryptocurrency and other digital means, you can ensure that your Zakat reaches the most deserving, regardless of geography. Let’s fulfill our duty, strengthen our bond of Ukhuwwah, and support our brothers and sisters in need—wherever they may be.
