Fidya in Islam – Complete Guide for Ramadan 2025

What Is Fidya in Islam? Meaning, Purpose & Obligation

Fasting during Ramadan is an enormous spiritual obligation. However, what happens if you cannot fast? This is the point where Fidya is in the picture.

 If you’ve ever thought about what Fidya (فدية) in Islam means, you’re not all on your own. Fidya (or Fidyah) is a type of charity compensation that is offered to Muslims who are unable to fast during Ramadan due to valid reasons such as chronic disease, old age, or pregnancy. 

They can perform their spiritual duty by feeding the poor for every fast missed. Let’s take it further.

Definition of Fidya (Fidyah) in the Quran and Hadith

The Quran says it clearly:

“…And as for those who can fast with difficulty, (e.g., an old man), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskeen (poor person) (for every day)…” [Al-Baqarah 2:184]

This verse provides the foundation for Fidya -A solution that is rooted in mercy and not in hardship.

The Hadith supports this, too. According to Ibn Abbas, those who are old enough and can’t fast are forced to feed a person who is in need every day.

Fidya as a Form of Charitable Compensation

This is the most exciting part.

 Although you’re not required to fast because of a valid motive, Fidya lets you still enjoy the blessings of Ramadan.

 It’s similar to telling yourself: “I can’t fast, but I’ll make sure someone in need eats well.”

Difference Between Fidya and Kaffarah (الكفارة)

Are you confused about Fidya and Kaffarah? You’re not the only one. Consider it as follows:

• Fidya is designed for those who aren’t able to fast (due to legitimate or persistent reasons).
• Kaffarah is for those who break their fast deliberately with no reason or valid reason.

The amounts? Quite different. More to come on that.

• Kaffarah in Islam – Complete Guide for Ramadan 2025

Who Needs to Pay Fidya? Eligibility Conditions Explained

Let’s face the facts — not everyone has to spend money on Fidya. 

If you’re one of the following, then it’s time to take notes.

Elderly Who Can’t Fast

If you’re too weak and old to be able to fast yet again, not only this year but in future years as well, then you’ll have to pay Fidya.

Chronically Ill Individuals

Have you been diagnosed with a long-term disease such as kidney failure, diabetes, or cancer? 

If there’s no chance for recovery, you’re able to take a break from fasting and make a payment to Fidya instead.

Deceased Muslims With Unfulfilled Fasts

If someone dies and misses fasts due to illness or the onset of age, their family members can be able to pay Fidya for them on their behalf.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

If you’re concerned about your health or that of your baby during fasting, Many scholars permit women who are pregnant or nursing mothers to pay Fidya.

Those Unable to Make Up Fasts Before Next Ramadan

Did you miss the fasts of last year? If your health isn’t improving this year, and the next Ramadan is upon us, Fidya becomes your choice.

How Much Is Fidya for Ramadan 2025? Cost Per Missed Fast

You may be asking: “How much do I have to pay?”

Fidya Calculation: Per Day Rate in USD, SAR, and GBP

Here’s a basic breakdown for 2025:

• USD: ~$5/day
• SAR: ~19/day
• GBP: ~£4-7/day

These amounts should be enough to cover two meals for one poor person.

Food Equivalence: 1.5kg to 2kg of Staple Food

If you’re paying for food items instead of cash, opt for the following:

• 1.5kg or 2kg of rice, wheat, or dates per day that isn’t eaten

Sample Calculation: Full Month Missed

Missed 30 days?

• In cash: $5 x 30 = $150
• In food: 2kg x 30 = 60kg of food

That’s your Fidya.

Local Guidelines from Trusted Islamic Charities

Some charities, such as Bonyan, Muslim Hands, or Islamic Relief, offer the latest rates. 

Always check with local organisations for the most up-to-date information.

How to Pay Fidya? Accepted Methods & Best Practices

So now you know you owe Fidya — what next?

Paying Fidya with Food vs. Cash

You can either:

• Donate food items (like rice or flour) directly
• Cash equivalent payments to a reputable company

Can I Donate Fidya Online?

Absolutely. Numerous platforms now provide safe online Fidya payments. 

Make sure that they are accessible to the less fortunate and the needy.

When Should You Pay Fidya – Before or After Ramadan?

You can pay it:

• Before Ramadan, if you know, you can’t fast
• During or after Ramadan, for each missed day

Fidya vs Kaffarah – Key Differences & When to Pay Each

Criteria	Fidya	Kaffarah
Valid Reason Needed	Yes	No
Cost per Missed Fast	~$5	~$300
Meals Required	1 Person (2 Meals)	60 People (or fast 60 days)
Alternative Fasting	No	Yes (60 continuous days)

Fidya is merciful. Kaffarah is a serious penance.

Fidyah Amount in Islam – Scholarly Opinions & Proofs

Quranic Evidence: Surah Al-Baqarah (2:184)

“…feed a poor person for each day missed…”

Hadith Support from Ibn Abbas and Companions

Ibn Abbas and Anas bin Malik both stated that elderly people should feed the poor instead of fasting.

Opinions of Ibn Baz, Ibn Uthaymeen & Fiqh Councils

• Ibn Baz: 1.5kg of rice or similar food items
• Ibn Uthaymeen: Cook meals or provide raw food items
• All scholars agree that you should pay only what you can afford.

Views of Hanafi, Shafi’i, and Hanbali Jurists

• All approve Fidya for old age or chronic illness
• Food quantity varies slightly, but the intent is the same

Who Can Receive Fidya? Eligible Beneficiaries

Poor and Needy (Equivalent to Zakat Recipients)

Only give Fidya to those who qualify for Zakat. No exceptions.

Fidya Distribution to Refugees and Orphans

Many charities offer Fidya to orphans, widows, and refugee families.

Local vs. International Recipients – Which is Better?

Both of them are legitimate. However, assisting the local community first is typically recommended.

Common Questions About Fidya & Ramadan Fasts (FAQ)

Can I Give Fidya Instead of Fasting If I’m Sick Temporarily?

No. You can make up your fasts later.

Is Fidya Compulsory for Pregnant Women?

It depends if fasting harms you or the baby, yes.

Can I Pay Fidya in Cash?

Yes. But make sure the money goes to the truly poor.

How Early Can I Pay Fidya?

Even before Ramadan starts.

What If I Recover After Paying Fidya?

Then fast those days later if you can. That’s better.

Can I Pay Fidya for Someone Who Died?

Yes. Their guardians or family members can pay for them on their behalf.

What If I Can’t Afford Fidya?

You’re then excused. Islam never burdens beyond means.

Is Giving Cooked Food Allowed as Fidya?

Absolutely. Many scholars believe it’s better.

Does Fidya Replace Missed Fasts Every Year?

Yes, if your condition remains the same.

What’s the Best Way to Fulfil Fidya?

With sincere intentions and a valid charity.

How much is Fidyah per day in 2026?

If you’re planning for Ramadan 2025, you’re probably asking, “How much do I need to pay for each missed fast?” Here’s the answer:

The Fidyah per day in 2025 is around USD 5 or 19 SAR in Saudi Arabia. This amount should be enough to feed one poor person two meals or two people one meal each.

That’s the basic guideline followed by most Islamic charities. Of course, the actual cost of fidyah may vary slightly based on where you live and food prices.

So always double-check with local mosques or trusted charities for the current rate in your country.

Is Fidya given to Muslims only?

Yes, according to Islamic teachings, fidyah is given to poor and needy Muslims. Those who are entitled to it must be subject to the same rules as zakat.

This means that it cannot be given to just anyone; the person must be truly needy, preferably not a relative. Why? Because fidyah in Islam compensates for fasting and helps a Muslim who is struggling to make ends meet.

It is a charity and a way to share in the blessings of Ramadan, even if you are unable to fast.

Can I give Fidya instead of fasting?

You may not pay fidyah instead of fasting unless you have a legitimate excuse. This applies to situations such as chronic illness, advanced age, or pregnancy, where you will not be able to make up the missed fasts later.

However, if your health improves and you can fast in the future, you must make up those days.

Therefore, fidyah is not a shortcut but rather a mercy for those who are truly unable to fast, not an alternative for those who do not want to.

What is Fidyah in Saudi Arabia?

If you’re a resident of the Kingdom or planning to pay fidyah there, here’s what you need to know. The fidyah in the Kingdom for 2025 is approximately 19 Saudi riyals per day, which is roughly equivalent to feeding a poor person two meals for each missed fast.

You can either donate uncooked food (such as 2 kg of rice per day) or donate the amount in cash to an approved local charity.

Well-known charities in the Kingdom, such as Al-Bir Society, King Salman Islamic Relief Centre, and the International Islamic Relief Organisation, offer online fidyah donation portals where your contribution reaches approved Muslim poor, including refugees and widows.

Final Thoughts – Fidya as a Mercy & Responsibility

Ramadan is all about reflection. If you aren’t able to fast, don’t be worried. 

Fidya in Islam is Allah’s mercy, an opportunity to still earn a reward and assist those struggling to eat a healthy diet.

So go ahead. Make the decision. Do what you can to make an impact.