Zakat is one of the most important pillars of Islam—a spiritual obligation and a social solution wrapped into one. But one question often stirs confusion and debate, especially in diverse communities:
Can zakat be given to non-Muslims?
Let’s break this down with clarity, compassion, and Islamic scholarship. By the end of this guide, you’ll know when it’s allowed, when it’s not, and what alternatives exist.
Quick Answer: Can Zakat Be Given to Non-Muslims?
In general, zakat is not to be given to non-Muslims.
Zakat is a right of poor and needy Muslims and must be distributed among the eight categories outlined in Surah At-Tawbah, verse 60 of the Qur’an.
However, there is one exception:
“Muallafatul Quloob” — non-Muslims whose hearts are being inclined toward Islam, or new Muslims who need support.
The 8 Categories of Zakat Recipients (As Mentioned in the Qur’an)
“Zakat is for the poor, the needy, those employed to administer it, those whose hearts are to be reconciled (muallaf), freeing captives, those in debt, in the cause of Allah, and for the stranded traveler. A duty ordained by Allah.”
— Surah At-Tawbah (9:60)
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Category | Can Be a Non-Muslim? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The Poor (Fuqara) | No | Must be Muslims |
| 2. The Needy (Masakin) | No | Must be Muslims |
| 3. Zakat Administrators | No | Must be Muslims |
| 4. Muallafatul Quloob | Yes (conditionally) | Non-Muslims whose hearts are being inclined to Islam or new reverts |
| 5. Freeing Slaves | No | Applicable in historical contexts |
| 6. Those in Debt | No | Unless the debt helps them embrace Islam |
| 7. In the Cause of Allah | No | Refers to dawah, jihad, or public welfare for Muslims |
| 8. Travelers in Difficulty | No | Must be Muslims, based on scholarly consensus |
Exception: The Case of Muallafatul Quloob
This is the only category where zakat may be given to non-Muslims—but with conditions.
What Does It Mean?
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Non-Muslims who are open to Islam and may accept it with gentle encouragement.
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New Muslims who need support to stabilize their life after reverting.
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Tribal or political leaders (historically) whose support could strengthen the Muslim community.
This category was actively used by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ during the early Islamic period. Some scholars say this category can be revived in contexts of dawah, interfaith harmony, or to win influence in a just cause.
However, most contemporary scholars agree:
Zakat should be prioritized for the poor and needy Muslims first, unless there’s a clear benefit to the Muslim community in giving it to non-Muslims under this category.
What About Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity)?
Here’s the good news:
Sadaqah (voluntary charity) can absolutely be given to non-Muslims.
Islam encourages kindness and generosity to all people—Muslim or not. The Prophet ﷺ himself helped non-Muslims and encouraged compassion across all humanity.
You can give sadaqah to:
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Non-Muslim neighbors in need
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Refugees of any faith
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Orphans regardless of religion
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Community aid programs that benefit all
Summary: Can Zakat Be Given to Non-Muslims?
| Situation | Ruling |
|---|---|
| Regular non-Muslim in need | ❌ No zakat allowed |
| Non-Muslim open to Islam (muallaf) | ✅ Yes, under category 4 |
| New Muslim revert | ✅ Yes, to support their stability |
| Needy Muslim | ✅ Yes, strongly preferred |
| Non-Muslim community project | ❌ Not from zakat, but ✅ from sadaqah |
If you’re still unsure, use a trusted online tool like zakatcalculator.com.ng—not just for accurate zakat calculations, but also for tips on how and where to give it properly.
Conclusion: Be Generous, But Be Guided
Islam encourages compassion, but zakat has specific guidelines. It’s not just charity—it’s a sacred financial duty meant to support and uplift the Muslim ummah.
So, can you give zakat to a non-Muslim?
Generally, no.
Exceptionally, yes—only in the case of muallafatul quloob.
If you want to help your non-Muslim friends or community members, that’s beautiful—do it with sadaqah, gifts, or acts of kindness. But when it comes to zakat, stick to the guidance Allah has given.
Purify your wealth with purpose. And when in doubt, turn to tools like zakatcalculator.com.ng to help you give right, and give well.
Because zakat isn’t just giving—it’s giving with intention.