Fidya

What is Fidya?

Feeding the needy when fasting is no longer possibleFidya is a prescribed form of compensation in Islam for those who are permanently unable to fast during the month of Ramadan.

Islam is a religion built upon mercy, wisdom, and ease, and Allah does not place a burden upon a soul beyond what it can bear. When fasting would cause harm due to chronic illness, old age, or permanent medical conditions, Allah, in His mercy, provides an alternative way for the believer to fulfill their religious duty.

Instead of fasting, those who qualify for Fidya are instructed to feed those in need, ensuring that worship continues through compassion and care for others. This ruling reflects the balance Islam establishes between devotion to Allah and consideration for human limitation.

Fidya is therefore not a lesser act of worship, nor is it optional charity — it is a valid and meaningful form of obedience for those whom Allah has excused from fasting.

By fulfilling Fidya, the believer remains connected to the spirit of Ramadan, transforming personal hardship into relief for others and turning inability into an act of generosity and worship.

Our Fidya Process

When fasting is no longer possible

Fidya applies to those whom Allah has excused from fasting due to permanent inability.

For individuals with chronic illness and no expectation of recovery

For elderly or frail individuals for whom fasting would cause harm

Not applicable to temporary illness or fasts that can be made up later

Replacing fasting with nourishment

When fasting cannot be resumed, Islam provides a compassionate substitute.

Fidya is fulfilled by feeding one person in need for each missed fast

It must be given as food and cannot be redirected or replaced

This act is obedience carried out through compassion

Fidya is fulfilled through meals

Fidya must be delivered exactly as prescribed.

Funds are used exclusively for meal preparation

Each missed fast corresponds to one complete, nourishing meal

No non-food or administrative use is applied

Feeding those entitled to receive

Fidya is directed to those facing genuine hardship.

Distributed to verified poor and needy individuals

Prioritized for communities facing food insecurity

Implemented through trusted local partners

Completing Fidya with peace of mind

UMMA ensures Fidya is handled with amanah and precision.

Fidya funds are kept separate from Zakat and other donations

Distribution is carried out locally and responsibly

Your Fidya obligation is fulfilled clearly and correctly

Fidya. Feeding the Needy When Fasting Is Not Possible.