Despite inflation and financial struggles, Pakistanis donated Rs619 billion ($2.19 billion) in Zakat in 2024—a testament to unwavering generosity.
A joint survey by ICTD and LUMS, based on phone interviews, reveals 50 million Pakistanis contributed an average of Rs15,000 each.
Zakat, a core Islamic pillar, requires eligible Muslims to give 2.5% of wealth above the Nisab threshold.
The amount eclipsed the Rs592 billion disbursed by BISP and the Rs577.4 billion collected as federal excise duty (FED). It also exceeded Pakistan’s 2022 development aid (Rs376 billion).
Most donors bypassed state-run systems, with over two-thirds giving directly to individuals. Only 10% donated to mosques or schools, while fewer supported NGOs.
This massive voluntary giving highlights public distrust in institutional channels—and a thriving culture of grassroots charity.