Awqaf Ministry Completes Operational Preparations to Receive Zakat Funds During Ramadan

Doha: The Zakat Affairs Department at the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs has announced that all operational and technical preparations have been finalized to facilitate the receipt of Zakat payments from individuals and companies. These payments can be made through a combined collection system, available via modern digital outlets or onsite collection points.

According to Qatar News Agency, these preparations aim to ensure the highest standards of security and reliability, providing individuals with confidence that their payments are reaching the intended recipients through approved regulatory channels. This initiative is part of the Ramadan motto: "Because your Zakat is a trust," as reported by the Awqaf Ministry.

Marwa Ahmed Al Benali, Head of the Collection and Zakat Accounts Section, stated that an extensive operational plan has been implemented to manage the expected increase in activity throughout Ramadan. This includes increasing capacity, extending business hours, and supporting the collection team to better serve the public.

Al Benali noted that Ramadan is a peak period for fulfilling this religious obligation, and the department operates Zakat payment channels 24/7. These channels are accessible through the official website or mobile application, allowing payers to calculate and pay their Zakat easily and securely. A direct banking transfer service is also available for approved accounts.

The digital user experience has been improved to function smoothly, offering numerous online payment options and providing instant notifications to payers once their transactions are processed. This enhances confidence in the secure and accurate completion of procedures, in line with the Ramadan motto.

The department is pleased to have established collection offices and points across the nation to facilitate access to their services. Certified collectors will be available at selected outlets during Ramadan, Al Benali confirmed.

Al Benali emphasized that all collection points are equipped with electronic systems to ensure timely registration of operations and issuance of approved transaction receipts. Individuals can view the locations of these collection offices by visiting the department's website.

The section works in coordination with relevant departments to ensure accurate calculations and quick transaction reconciliation, supported by daily monitoring reports, promoting financial governance and transparency.

For companies, Al Benali mentioned the introduction of a calculator that facilitates Zakat calculations based on Islamic Sharia rules and authorized accounting practices. Technical and consultative support is available for accountants and managers to streamline the process and clarify the Zakat base.

The department is dedicated to engaging directly with companies to provide essential guidance, reinforcing a partnership with the business sector in observing this Islamic pillar.

Al Benali further explained that all collected Zakat funds undergo rigorous financial measures, electronic documentation, and regular reviews to ensure they are directed to Islamic banks according to approved systems. She highlighted the department's commitment to maintaining societal trust.

She urged all payers to fulfill their Zakat obligations during the holy month using the available outlets, stressing that the department has utilized all technological and human resources to facilitate this process smoothly, as Zakat is a trust and channeling it to eligible recipients is a responsibility.