How Much Is Fitrana in the UK?

One of the most common questions during Ramadan is: “How much do I need to pay for Fitrana?” If you’re in the UK, you may have heard that the recommended Fitrana amount is about £5 per person. But what’s the reason behind this figure, and does it change? In this article, we’ll break down the cost of Fitrana in the UK, how that amount is decided, and how you can calculate what you owe for yourself and your family. By the end, you’ll know exactly how much to set aside so that you can fulfil your Fitrana obligation correctly and confidently.

The amount of Fitrana is not arbitrary; it’s rooted in a prophetic measurement. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specified the Fitrana as one sā‘ of staple food per person. A sā‘ is a traditional unit of volume (roughly four double-handfuls). In practical terms, it equates to about 2.5 to 3 kilograms of staple food like wheat, rice, dates, or barley. So, how do we get a monetary value from that? Essentially, scholars calculate the market cost of that quantity of food and set it as the Fitrana rate each year. In many countries, including the UK, Islamic scholars or councils will assess current prices for staple foods to decide an appropriate equivalent amount in local currency. The goal is to ensure the amount is enough to feed a person a basic meal. Over the years, this has tended to be a small, affordable sum; the idea is that Fitrana should not be a heavy burden on anyone, rich or poor. If we look at the historical context, one sā‘ of dates or grain in the Prophet’s time was a modest amount that nearly every family could spare. Today, converting that to money means the rate might adjust slightly with inflation or food prices, but it generally remains low relative to most people’s income. In the UK, local mosques and charities often announce the Fitrana amount at the beginning of Ramadan. They may gather data from multiple grocery stores on staple prices to arrive at a fair figure. It’s important to follow the latest recommended rate each year, as food costs do change. However, you’ll notice the Fitrana amount usually stays within a small range and doesn’t fluctuate wildly; it’s meant to reflect an average cost of staples, not luxury food. This system of determination keeps Fitrana linked to its original purpose: providing a meal. By giving that set amount, you are essentially donating the cost of a meal on your behalf. It’s beautiful in its simplicity and equity. Whether you’re a millionaire or earning minimum wage, everyone gives roughly the same small amount so that someone less fortunate can eat.