Top Zakat Organizations in the UK 

Muslims are required to give 2.5% of their total wealth as Zakat, provided their wealth or assets meet or exceed the nisab value. Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, plays a crucial role in the redistribution of wealth to help the poor and needy. According to a recent report, most of the Zakat collected in the UK is distributed abroad to support global causes.

In the UK, numerous charitable organizations have been established to facilitate the distribution of Zakat among those who are eligible for it. These organizations are supporting various causes. This article will highlight the top Zakat organizations in the UK, their contributions, and their unique initiatives.

Transparent Hands 

Transparent Hands Limited is a non-profit organization that helps underprivileged patients in accessing free medical and surgical care. It’s one of the few Zakat organizations in the UK that arrange free medical camps and provide free surgeries to poor and needy patients in Pakistan.

The organization collects Zakat and donations to support treatments of patients belonging to low-income, vulnerable, and underserved communities. Donors can choose to support specific patients or contribute to larger campaigns and initiatives.

To appreciate and recognize Transparent Hands’ impact, the government of Pakistan awarded the prestigious Tamgha e Imtiaz to Rameeza Mueen, the organization’s CEO. 

Human Relief Foundation 

Human Relief Foundation (HRF) is an internationally recognized charity organization that was established in Bradford, UK, in response to the Gulf War in 1991. For the past 30 years, HRF’s main goal has been to assist those affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and poverty across the globe.

HRF works by collaborating with other NGOs, governments, and international agencies to support humanitarian initiatives. It has also been one of the leading Zakat organizations in the UK that responded to the crises in Palestine, Syria, Rohingya, and Iraq. The organization also uses Zakat donations to support individuals facing financial hardship in London and Birmingham by providing food assistance.

Al Mustafa Welfare Trust

In 1983, a group of professionals, including doctors, lawyers, business executives, and engineers, came forward to establish the Al Mustafa Welfare Trust. The organization was officially registered in the UK in 2007.

The organization implements a 100% Zakat policy, ensuring every donation directly benefits those most in need. Focusing on education, health, and social welfare, they primarily serve low-income and underprivileged groups. The organization has helped over 17 million people in need. The trust has been delivering life-saving humanitarian aid for over 40 years. 

Islamic Aid 

Founded in 2000 by Mahmood Ul Hassan and Rubina Gul, Islamic Aid is a registered charity with the Charity Commission of England and Wales. It is considered among the most well-known Zakat organizations in the UK.

The organization aims to relieve poverty and suffering around the world. Its mission and vision are associated with Islamic principles, which encourage charity and highlight the significance of helping those in need. Islamic Aid operates through a variety of programs such as emergency relief, Zakat distribution, sustainable development projects, and food aid programs.

The organization has been acknowledged for its transparency and accountability which ensures that donor funds are used effectively. Islamic Aid has also been appreciated for its excellence in humanitarian aid such as providing the gift of eyesight, helping Palestinian refugees, and responding immediately to the Somalia Emergency. Since over 884 million people across the world do not have access to clean water, the organization is also working towards this cause.

Muslim Hands 

Muslim Hands, an international NGO, was founded in 1993 in response to the Bosnian crisis, with Syed Lakhte Hassanain as its chair of trustees. Operating in over 50 countries, the organization focuses on emergency relief, child protection, healthcare, education, and livelihood through both short-term and long-term projects. In 2020, the organization received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, which was presented by Sir John, Lord Lieutenant of Nottingham. 

Conclusion 

In the last few years, many Zakat organizations in the UK have launched initiatives to help the poor and needy both locally and internationally. These Zakat organizations are offering hope to vulnerable communities around the world. By donating to them, you can play your part in uplifting and empowering low-income and neglected communities across the globe.