Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Charity International (SCI) revealed that it allocated 207.1 million dirhams from the Zakat fund during the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. The funds were directed towards various groups, including financially struggling students, individuals convicted in financial cases, and those encountering difficulties in fulfilling rent payments. Additionally, support was provided to individuals enrolled in monthly assistance programmes.
In more detail, Mohammed Rashid bin Bayat, Deputy Chairman of the Board, explained that the society depends on the Zakat contributions of benefactors to support a significant portion of its projects, aligning with Islamic Sharia principles. These initiatives include aiding individuals in financial distress, facilitating rent payments, and assisting participants in monthly aid programmes. To facilitate year-round Zakat collection, a dedicated unit was established, managing distribution according to Sharia principles, with inquiries handled by the Zakat collection unit through a call center.
Bin Bayat clarified that Zakat disbursements comprised 58.8 million dirhams for monthly aid beneficiaries, totaling 37,200 recipients over the past three years. Furthermore, 49.2 million dirhams were allocated to support educational programmes, benefiting approximately 7,394 students struggling with tuition fees during the same period. The society also covered the financial hardships of convicted individuals, totaling 33.8 million dirhams. Additionally, over 57.2 million dirhams were directed towards aiding individuals with housing rent arrears, as well as electricity and water bills.
He underscored the pivotal role of Zakat as a significant source of support for the society's projects, fostering a decent life for beneficiaries and promoting social solidarity across different segments of society. Bin Bayat highlighted Dubai Islamic Bank's noteworthy contribution of over 80.8 million dirhams to the society over the past six years. He encouraged benefactors to channel their Zakat contributions through the Sharjah Charity International, noting that the society supports over 20,000 beneficiaries through Zakat aid.