Abu Dhabi, UAE – The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (GAI) launched today the “National Zakat Platform.” It is the official channel in the UAE for receiving
and managing zakat (Islamic alms) from individuals and companies. The platform operates in accordance with Sharia principles and the highest standards of governance and transparency.
The launch ceremony was attended by His Excellency Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Derei, Chairman of GAI. Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Empowerment, also attended.
and His Excellency Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Red Crescent.
Honesty and national responsibility
A number of senior officials, representatives of charitable organizations, and partners were also present.
His Excellency Dr. Al Derei emphasized that zakat matters represent a national trust and responsibility. He stressed that the current stage requires precise institutionalization.
He added that relying on data and statistics is essential for regulating zakat resources and their distribution.
Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure that zakat reaches its rightful beneficiaries with complete transparency.
He explained that the platform’s objective extends beyond simply collecting zakat funds. It aims to build an integrated digital system that enhances trust and prevents any misuse of these funds.
He pointed out that the platform represents a first step in the comprehensive digital transformation of Zakat administration.
This facilitates its performance for Zakat payers and achieves the highest standards of quality and legal compliance.
For his part, His Excellency Ahmed Rashid Al Neyadi, Director General of the Authority, reviewed the law establishing the platform and its objectives.
He explained that it constitutes a unified national framework for regulating the efforts of licensed entities and associations in collecting and distributing Zakat.
This enhances efficiency and amplifies the social and developmental impact.
The Authority called on all entities engaged in collecting or distributing Zakat to regularize their status and register on the platform within the specified timeframe.
It also emphasized that any activity in this field without a license is a violation punishable under federal law,
in order to safeguard the integrity of the Zakat system and protect donors and beneficiaries.
