The UAE Sharia Board has recommended expanding the scope of the religious standards established by the board to cover all zakat funds. Furthermore, it suggests utilizing artificial intelligence technologies for the distribution of zakat, addressing the needs of individuals and businesses while accommodating diverse religious interpretations. A specialized scientific study is to be prepared in collaboration with the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments to issue a detailed fatwa that specifies the zakat value of dates in the country. The board also aims to strengthen national partnerships by enhancing cooperation with relevant authorities in the field of palm trees and dates.
This announcement was made in a concluding statement after a seminar titled “Zakat on Dates: Fatwa Regulations and National Efforts – Civilizational Foresights,” which took place at the Seasons Park in the Al Samha area of Abu Dhabi, coinciding with the 2025 dates season and as part of the “Year of Community” initiatives.
The board stressed the enhancement of fatwa research related to zakat to keep up with scientific and technological advances. It advocates for organizing specialized seminars and workshops, as well as investing in digital tools and artificial intelligence to facilitate and simplify zakat on dates. These efforts aim to ensure accuracy and transparency while serving various segments of society. The UAE Sharia Board urges palm tree owners to take the initiative in paying zakat on their dates through the digital accounts and platforms provided by the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
Dr. Sabaa Salem Al Kaabi, the Secretary-General of the board, highlighted that the seminar focused on the religious, social, and economic value of zakat on dates. He reiterated the UAE’s commitment to enhancing its global leadership position while celebrating its rich national heritage and acknowledging the wise leadership’s efforts in caring for and nurturing palm trees.
The statement noted that the seminar resulted in several important outcomes, primarily highlighting the country’s leadership in the care of palm trees and their products. It emphasized institutional efforts to regulate zakat on dates, launching the “UAE Sharia Board Standards for Zakat on Dates,” which provides a comprehensive national framework outlining the religious guidelines, scientific foundations, and practical procedures associated with this matter. An issuance titled “Tendrils from the Tree of Life,” featuring comprehensive and diverse fatwa responses concerning zakat on dates, was also released. This issuance is characterized by its rich content and clear style, facilitating the performance of this religious duty by farmers and individuals. Additionally, the role of digital platforms and artificial intelligence in supporting the fatwa process and ensuring more accurate and effective zakat payment was reaffirmed, aligning with the country’s digital transformation goals and global leadership in this area. An exhibition titled “Shmarikh Dates” was launched, serving as a national platform that interwove the cultural heritage of the palm tree with genuine Emirati identity, while highlighting the concepts of sustainability and the societal values associated with it.