Working Towards a Better Future

What is Waqf?
Waqf (plural: Awqaf) is a form of Sadaqah Jariya (ongoing charity) in which a gift is donated to bring a charitable return. Central to the idea of Waqf is that it is lasting: the gift is regarded as belonging to ‘Allah’ and therefore cannot be sold. Although Waqf is not expressly highlighted in the Qur’an, it is mentioned in the teachings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). In one such saying the blessed Prophet (pbuh) said: ‘When a person dies all their actions come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, knowledge from which people continue to benefit and righteous children who pray for them’. The ongoing charity to which the Prophet (pbuh) refers is Waqf.

Waqf in History
Since the time of the Prophet (pbuh), Waqf generally took the form of a donated property or an institution to help others. For example, houses were converted to inns for travelers, waterways were built to bring water to villages, hospitals were built to provide free medical treatment, schools were built to provide free education, and kitchens were established to feed the poor.


Islamic Relief's Waqf Future Fund
Guided by the illustrious record of Waqf in Islamic civilization, Islamic Relief started its Waqf programme in 2001, and has a designated department that arranges for donations to be invested in accordance with the principles of Islamic law.

Donors are invited to make a donation either by purchasing a Waqf share or contributing towards the Waqf Support Fund. The donation is preserved through investment and the annual profit that it makes is then used to help the needy through various emergency and development projects. Since 2002, Islamic Relief has implemented 38 projects in 20 countries world-wide.

To make a Waqf donation, please click here