Ahead of Ramadan 2026, the Pakistani government has announced the Nisab for Zakat deduction from bank accounts at Rs503,529. This threshold determines the minimum balance in savings, profit and loss-sharing, and similar deposit accounts that will be subject to Zakat on the first day of the holy month.
Accounts meeting or exceeding this amount on Ramadan’s first day will automatically have Zakat deducted, while current accounts will remain exempt, according to an official notification issued to banks. The exact deduction is scheduled for February 19 or 20, depending on the official sighting of the Ramadan crescent, with Ramadan expected to begin on February 19, 2026.
Bank balances below the Nisab will not face any Zakat deductions. This step reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring accurate and systematic collection of Zakat, which is directed toward assisting the needy and underprivileged segments of society.
The announcement of the Nisab is a significant preparatory measure as the country readies for Ramadan, reinforcing the principle that only those with wealth above the specified limit are liable to contribute Zakat. This ensures fairness and encourages wealth distribution in accordance with Islamic guidelines.
On the first working day of Ramadan, all banks, development finance institutions (DFIs), and microfinance banks (MFBs) will suspend public operations to facilitate the smooth deduction of Zakat from eligible accounts. This practice is part of Pakistan’s broader framework to implement religious obligations effectively and transparently, supporting social welfare through proper collection and disbursement of Zakat.
The government’s timely notification and the clear Nisab threshold provide account holders with sufficient information to prepare their finances ahead of Ramadan, ensuring that Zakat obligations are fulfilled in compliance with Islamic law.
