Fidya

Fidya (also spelled Fidyah) is a compensation paid when a Muslim is unable to fast during Ramadan due to a valid reason and cannot make up the missed fasts later. It involves feeding a person in need for each day of fasting missed. Fidya is a mercy from Allah for those genuinely unable to fast.

Fidya is for Muslims who cannot fast and have no prospect of making up the fasts later. This includes the elderly who are too weak to fast, those with chronic long-term illnesses, pregnant or breastfeeding women (in some scholarly opinions), and anyone with a permanent health condition preventing fasting.

Fidya and Fidyah are simply different English spellings of the same Arabic word. Both refer to the same compensation for missed fasts. You may also see it written as Fidiya. The ruling and amount are identical regardless of spelling.

Fidya is for those who cannot fast due to valid reasons (illness, old age). Kaffarah is a penalty for deliberately breaking a fast without a valid excuse. Fidya is £6 per day, while Kaffarah requires fasting 60 consecutive days or feeding 60 people (£360) per broken fast.

Yes, if you have missed fasts from previous years that you were unable to make up, you should pay Fidya for those days. Calculate the total number of days missed and multiply by £6. It’s important to fulfil this obligation as soon as you are able.

Scholars differ on this. Some say pregnant and breastfeeding women should make up missed fasts later (Qada). Others permit Fidyah if they fear for their health or their child’s. Consult a knowledgeable scholar for your specific situation. If Fidya applies, pay £6 per missed day.

Your Fidya donation provides meals to those in need through our 100% donation policy. We distribute food to families in Gaza, Yemen, Sudan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Rohingya communities – ensuring your Fidyah feeds those who need it most.