Calculate your exact share cost and Sunnah meat distribution for Eid ul Adha
"For every hair of the Qurbani you will receive a reward from Allah"
— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | TirmidhiQurbani (Udhiyah) is the Islamic act of sacrificing a livestock animal during the blessed days of Eid ul Adha. It commemorates the tremendous sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in complete obedience to Allah. In 2026, Eid ul Adha falls on approximately 27th May. The word Qurbani comes from the Arabic root "Qurb" meaning closeness — through this sacrifice a Muslim draws closer to Allah.
According to the Hanafi school — followed by most UK Muslims — Qurbani is Wajib (obligatory) for every adult Muslim who possesses wealth above the Nisab threshold. The Prophet ﷺ warned: "Whoever has the means to offer a sacrifice but does not do so, let him not approach our place of prayer." (Ibn Majah)
In the UK in 2026, the cost of a cow suitable for Qurbani ranges from £700 to £1,500 depending on the supplier and location. Each share costs between £100 and £215. A sheep or goat typically costs between £150 and £350. Use our free Qurbani Calculator above to work out your exact share cost instantly.
The Prophet ﷺ said: "Eat from it, store from it and give charity from it." (Sahih Muslim). The Sunnah is to divide the meat into three equal parts — one third for your family, one third for relatives and friends, and one third for the poor and needy. Use our calculator to see exactly how many kg each portion should be.
Everything you need to know — rules, shares, prices and Sunnah distribution
Qurbani (Udhiyah) is the Islamic act of sacrificing a livestock animal during Eid ul Adha. It commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). In 2026, Eid ul Adha falls on approximately 27th May.
"For every hair of the Qurbani you will receive a reward from Allah."
— Tirmidhi & Ibn MajahQurbani is Wajib for every adult Muslim who possesses wealth equal to or above the Nisab threshold. It is performed on the 10th, 11th or 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
| Animal | Shares | Min Age | UK Price 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐄 Cow/Bull | 7 shares | 2 years | £700–£1,500 |
| 🐪 Camel | 7 shares | 5 years | Varies |
| 🐑 Sheep | 1 share | 1 year | £150–£350 |
| 🐐 Goat | 1 share | 1 year | £200–£400 |
Around 27th May 2026 in the UK. Qurbani can be performed on the 10th, 11th or 12th of Dhul Hijjah.
Yes — pay a reputable Islamic charity to perform Qurbani on your behalf locally or overseas.
Yes — as Isaal-e-Thawaab (gifting reward to the deceased). Many scholars encourage this.
Use our free calculator to work out your exact cost and meat distribution!
Plan your complete Islamic wedding budget instantly — 100% free
"The best of marriages are the easiest ones"
— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Al-BayhaqiPlanning a Nikah in the UK can cost anywhere from £5,000 for a simple ceremony to over £50,000 for a large celebration. Venue hire in major UK cities costs £1,500–£8,000. Catering at £40–£100 per head means 200 guests can cost £8,000–£20,000 for food alone. Photography typically costs £1,500–£5,000 for a professional package.
The Mahr is the mandatory gift from groom to bride. Allah says: "Give the women their Mahr as a gift." (Surah An-Nisa 4:4). It belongs entirely to the bride and is her exclusive Islamic right. In the UK, Mahr amounts typically range from £1,000 to £10,000 or more. It can be cash, gold jewellery, property or any agreed item of value.
A Nikah alone is NOT legally recognised in the UK. Without civil registration, the wife has no legal rights to assets, pension or estate. Register at a local register office or ensure your Nikah is performed at a registered mosque. The civil registration fee is approximately £50–£100. Many UK mosques are now registered to perform legally valid Nikah ceremonies.
Everything about Islamic marriage — conditions, Mahr, rights and the ceremony
Nikah is the Islamic marriage contract — a sacred union between a man and woman according to the commands of Allah and the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
"And among His signs is that He created for you mates that you may find tranquility in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy."
— Surah Ar-Rum 30:21"Give the women their Mahr as a gift."
— Surah An-Nisa 4:4The Mahr is the mandatory gift from groom to bride. It belongs entirely to the bride and is her exclusive Islamic right. It can be cash, gold, property or any agreed item of value.
The wedding feast hosted by the groom — a confirmed Sunnah. Even a simple meal with family is sufficient.
No fixed minimum in Islam. Any amount agreed by both parties is valid. Even teaching Quran can be a Mahr.
Use our free Nikah Cost Calculator to plan your complete wedding budget!
Calculate the correct Islamic distribution of an estate according to the Quran and Sunnah
"Allah commands you regarding your children: for the male a share equal to that of two females."
— Surah An-Nisa 4:11Islamic inheritance law (Ilm ul Faraid) is divinely ordained — revealed by Allah in the Quran with precise shares for each heir. Unlike man-made laws, Islamic inheritance leaves very little room for personal discretion. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Learn the laws of inheritance and teach them to the people — for it is half of knowledge." (Ibn Majah)
Before distributing any inheritance: 1) Pay all funeral and burial expenses from the estate. 2) Pay ALL outstanding debts in full — the Quran emphasises this strongly. 3) Execute any valid Wasiyyah (Islamic will — maximum one third to non-heirs). Only then distribute the remaining estate to heirs according to their Quranic shares.
UK law applies by default — without an Islamic will, your estate may not follow the Quran. Every Muslim should have an Islamic will that is also legally valid under UK law. A solicitor specialising in Islamic wills can ensure your estate is distributed exactly as Allah commanded while meeting full UK legal requirements. The Prophet ﷺ said: "It is not permissible for a Muslim who has anything to bequeath to spend two nights without a written will." (Bukhari)
Understanding Mirath — Islamic laws of inheritance according to Quran and Sunnah
Islamic inheritance law (Ilm ul Faraid) is divinely ordained — revealed by Allah in the Quran with precise shares for each heir. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Learn the laws of inheritance and teach them to the people — for it is half of knowledge." (Ibn Majah)
"Allah commands you regarding your children: for the male a share equal to that of two females."
— Surah An-Nisa 4:11No — Islamic inheritance shares are obligatory. You can leave up to ⅓ to charity via Wasiyyah, but the rest must go to heirs according to Islamic law.
These pass outside of an estate through beneficiary nominations. Ensure your nominations match your Islamic inheritance wishes. Consider Takaful as an alternative.
Use our free calculator to distribute your estate correctly
Calculate Islamic home finance payments — Musharakah & Ijara explained simply
"Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba."
— Surah Al-Baqarah 2:275Conventional mortgages involve riba (interest) which Allah has strictly forbidden. Allah says: "Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:275). The Prophet ﷺ cursed everyone involved in an interest-based transaction — the one who pays, the one who receives, the one who writes it and the witnesses. (Sahih Muslim 1598)
You and the bank jointly purchase the property. You pay rent on the bank's share AND gradually buy more of it each month. As your ownership increases the rent decreases. At the end of the term you own 100% — completely halal. This structure is fundamentally different from conventional mortgages and has been approved by leading Islamic scholars worldwide.
Al Rayan Bank offers Islamic mortgages from just 5% deposit. UK Muslims can use the Lifetime ISA — save £4,000/year and get a 25% government bonus — as a deposit for Islamic home finance. Shared Ownership is also available through Islamic finance providers. All UK Islamic lenders are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Everything about Islamic home finance — Sharia-compliant and explained simply
"Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba. Those who return to it — they are the companions of the Fire."
— Surah Al-Baqarah 2:275"The Prophet ﷺ cursed the one who consumes riba, the one who pays it, the one who writes it and the two witnesses."
— Sahih Muslim 1598| Bank | Type | Min Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| 🏦 Al Rayan | Musharakah | 5-10% |
| 🏦 Gatehouse | Musharakah | 15% |
| 🏦 Ahli United | Ijara | 20% |
| 🏦 UBL UK | Musharakah | 10% |
Yes — certified by qualified Sharia scholars. The bank takes genuine ownership risk. Major scholars including those at Al Azhar have approved Diminishing Musharakah as halal.
Yes! Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank are compatible with Help to Buy ISA and Lifetime ISA schemes.
Rates are slightly higher (0.5-1%) than conventional but the gap has narrowed. The peace of mind of a halal transaction is invaluable.
Use our free calculator to work out monthly payments instantly
Beautiful Arabic names with meanings — find the perfect name! 🌙
"The best names you can give your children are Abdullah and Abdurrahman"
— Prophet Muhammad ﷺ | Sahih MuslimToday is Arafah! Make the most of every minute until Maghrib! 🤲
"There is no day on which Allah sets free more people from the Fire than the Day of Arafah."
Tap the button to count your dhikr
Making Islamic knowledge accessible for every Muslim family worldwide
DeenHelper was created by a Muslim mother based in London, with a passion for making Islamic knowledge accessible and easy for every Muslim family worldwide.
To provide free, accurate and easy-to-use Islamic tools for Muslims around the world — built on authentic Quran and Sunnah.
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A clear simple guide to understanding cow shares, camel shares and individual animal shares in Islam
In Islam, not every animal is sacrificed by one person alone. Larger animals such as cows and camels can be shared between up to seven people or families, with each person contributing one "share" of the cost and receiving one share of the reward. This is based on authentic Hadith and makes Qurbani accessible to more Muslims who might not be able to afford a full animal alone.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ established this system to make Qurbani inclusive. Jabir ibn Abdullah (RA) reported: "We slaughtered with the Prophet ﷺ at Hudaybiyyah a camel for seven and a cow for seven." (Sahih Muslim 1318). This Hadith is the direct basis for the seven-share rule that Muslims follow worldwide today.
A cow or bull must be at least two years old to be valid for Qurbani. A camel must be at least five years old. Both animals provide exactly seven shares — no more, no less. This means between two and seven people can come together to purchase and sacrifice one cow or camel, splitting the cost equally between them.
All seven people sharing a cow receive the full reward of Qurbani according to scholars, not a fraction of it. The reward is not divided — each participant receives complete reward for performing Qurbani as if they sacrificed an entire animal themselves. SubhanAllah, this is one of the beautiful mercies of Allah in Islamic law.
A sheep or goat cannot be shared between multiple people for Qurbani. Each sheep or goat counts as exactly one Qurbani for one person or one household. However, the Prophet ﷺ himself sacrificed one sheep on behalf of his entire household, so one sheep or goat is sufficient for a husband, wife and all their children living in the same home.
There are conditions for who can share a cow for Qurbani. All sharers must intend the sacrifice for worship — whether as their obligatory Qurbani, a voluntary Qurbani, or on behalf of a deceased person. Scholars differ on whether a non-Muslim can participate in a shared cow — the safer and most widely accepted opinion is that all seven participants should be Muslim.
The cost must be split equally between all participants. If a cow costs £700 and seven people are sharing, each person pays exactly £100. It is not permissible for some participants to pay more or less than their equal share unless they are voluntarily taking multiple shares. Use our free Qurbani Calculator to work out the exact cost per share for any animal price.
| Animal Price | Per Share (÷7) | 2 Shares | Full Animal |
|---|---|---|---|
| £700 | £100 | £200 | £700 |
| £840 | £120 | £240 | £840 |
| £1,050 | £150 | £300 | £1,050 |
| £1,400 | £200 | £400 | £1,400 |
The meat from a shared cow is also divided equally between all participants. Each person receives one seventh of the total meat. You then divide your personal portion according to the Sunnah — one third for your family, one third for relatives and one third for the poor. Use our Qurbani Calculator to enter the total meat weight and see exactly how many kg each portion should be.
Yes — one cow covers the husband and all his dependants as long as the intention covers the whole family. A husband taking one share of a cow is sufficient for the entire household.
Yes — it is permissible to pay a charity to sacrifice on your behalf in another country. This is widely practised and accepted by scholars.
You can take multiple shares yourself, or the remaining shares can go unused as voluntary Qurbanis. A cow with only four or five participants is still valid.
Children are not obligated to give Qurbani but their parents can include them as a voluntary Qurbani. Many families take one share per child as an act of blessing.
Work out your exact Qurbani cost in seconds — free!
10 mistakes Muslims make with Qurbani — and how to avoid them according to the Sunnah
Many Muslims leave Qurbani arrangements until the last few days before Eid ul Adha, only to find that affordable slots with reputable suppliers are fully booked. In the UK, quality halal slaughterhouses and community Qurbani organisations fill up weeks in advance. Start looking for your Qurbani provider at least four to six weeks before Eid.
The Prophet ﷺ specified four types of animals that are NOT valid for Qurbani: a one-eyed animal whose defect is obvious, a sick animal whose sickness is obvious, a lame animal whose lameness is obvious, and an emaciated animal with no marrow in its bones. If you are purchasing an animal directly, inspect it carefully before payment.
Qurbani is an act of worship and must be accompanied by a sincere intention for the sake of Allah. Some Muslims treat Qurbani as a cultural tradition or a social obligation without the proper Islamic intention. The Quran is clear: "It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him." (Surah Al-Hajj 22:37). Make your intention clearly before the sacrifice takes place.
This is one of the most commonly overlooked Sunnahs. The Prophet ﷺ said: "When you see the new moon of Dhul Hijjah and one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him refrain from cutting his hair and clipping his nails." (Sahih Muslim 1977). This applies from the 1st of Dhul Hijjah until the Qurbani has been performed.
Many Muslims keep all of the Qurbani meat for themselves and their immediate family, not giving any to the poor or to relatives. The Sunnah is to divide into three equal parts — one third for the family, one third for relatives and friends, and one third for the poor. While scholars differ on whether this is obligatory or recommended, neglecting the poor entirely contradicts the spirit of Qurbani.
Qurbani cannot be performed before the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Any animal slaughtered before the Eid prayer does not count as Qurbani. The sacrifice window opens after the Eid prayer on the 10th and closes at sunset on the 12th of Dhul Hijjah — giving three days in total.
If you genuinely did not know about the defect at the time of purchase, most scholars say the Qurbani is still valid. However if the defect was obvious, it is better to repeat the sacrifice if possible.
Technically scholars differ — some say you may keep all of it, others say giving to the poor is obligatory. The Sunnah is clearly to share, so following the three-way division is recommended.
If you forgot to verbalise the intention but had it in your heart, the Qurbani is valid. Intention is in the heart — verbalising it is Sunnah not an obligation.
Use our free calculator to plan your Qurbani this Eid ul Adha
Islamic rules on who is obligated to perform Qurbani — Nisab, conditions and exemptions explained
This is one of the most discussed questions in Islamic jurisprudence regarding Qurbani. The answer depends on which school of thought you follow. According to the Hanafi school — which the majority of Muslims in the UK, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India and Turkey follow — Qurbani is Wajib (obligatory) for every eligible Muslim. According to the Shafi, Maliki and Hanbali schools, it is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Muakkadah) — extremely strongly recommended but not technically compulsory.
Qurbani is only required from Muslims who possess wealth above the Nisab threshold on the days of Eid ul Adha. Nisab is the minimum amount of wealth a Muslim must possess before certain Islamic obligations apply. The Nisab for Qurbani is calculated based on either gold (87.48 grams) or silver (612.36 grams), whichever is more accessible to you.
The following groups are generally exempt from the obligation of Qurbani, though they may still perform it voluntarily if they wish:
According to the Hanafi school, every individual adult Muslim who meets the conditions must perform their own Qurbani — it is not sufficient for a husband to do one Qurbani for the whole family if the wife and adult children also independently meet the Nisab conditions. However, one sheep or goat suffices for one person or one's entire household if done with the right intention.
It is completely permissible and highly recommended to perform Qurbani on behalf of deceased parents, grandparents or other loved ones as a voluntary act of Sadaqah. The Prophet ﷺ himself sacrificed on behalf of members of his Ummah. This is called Isaal-e-Thawaab — gifting the reward to the deceased — and is a beautiful act of love and generosity towards those who have passed.
The relevant time is the days of Eid ul Adha — 10th, 11th and 12th Dhul Hijjah. If you possess Nisab on any of these days, Qurbani is due.
Yes — if your savings exceed the Nisab threshold even if you have low income, Qurbani is obligatory according to the Hanafi school.
If you independently own wealth above Nisab, you should ideally have your own Qurbani performed. Consult your local scholar for guidance based on your specific situation.
Work out your exact share cost with our free calculator
A clear answer to one of the most commonly asked Qurbani questions
Yes — a husband and wife can share one Qurbani in the sense that one sheep or goat sacrificed by the husband covers the entire household including his wife and children. The Prophet ﷺ sacrificed on behalf of himself and all members of his household with a single animal. This is well established in authentic Hadith.
If a husband performs Qurbani with one sheep or goat with the intention of it covering himself and his wife and children, this is sufficient according to the majority of scholars. The wife does not need to perform a separate Qurbani unless she independently owns wealth above the Nisab threshold and the husband's Qurbani is not done with the intention of covering her.
A husband and wife can absolutely take shares in the same cow together. For example, a husband takes three shares and his wife takes two shares — together they contribute five of the seven shares in one cow. Each person has their own separate Qurbani fulfilled, and the cost is shared between them. This is a common and convenient arrangement for many Muslim families.
The position of the Hanafi school is that Qurbani is Wajib on both husband and wife separately if both meet the Nisab condition. However if only the husband meets the condition or if the wife's wealth is managed within the household, many scholars accept the husband's Qurbani as covering the family. The safest approach is for each adult who owns Nisab independently to arrange their own Qurbani — but practically speaking, the husband's Qurbani done with the intention of covering the family is widely accepted.
One share is for one Qurbani — so if both husband and wife need their own Qurbani, each needs their own share in a cow or they need separate animals.
Yes — one sheep sacrificed with the intention of covering the entire household is sufficient, as this is the established Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Yes — a wife who owns Nisab independently can perform her own Qurbani without needing her husband's permission. Qurbani is between her and Allah.
Use our free Qurbani Calculator to split the cost fairly
Complete guide for UK Muslims — regulations, suppliers, halal slaughter and your rights
In the United Kingdom, animal slaughter is regulated by the Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing (England and Wales) Regulations 2015. These regulations permit religious slaughter — both halal and kosher — without prior stunning when performed by a licensed slaughterman for the purpose of religious rites. However, some UK slaughterhouses do perform pre-stunning before halal slaughter — if this is important to you, confirm with your supplier whether they use pre-stunned or non-stunned animals.
Many UK Muslims choose to donate their Qurbani through an Islamic charity to be performed in a country where meat is most needed — such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia, Syria or Yemen. This is completely permissible according to the majority of scholars. The meat is distributed to poor families in those regions who may rarely have access to meat otherwise. This is both a valid Qurbani and a powerful act of Sadaqah.
Reputable UK Islamic charities offering overseas Qurbani include Islamic Relief UK, Human Appeal, Muslim Hands, Penny Appeal and National Zakat Foundation. Always confirm the charity is UK registered and that they provide confirmation of your Qurbani being completed.
| Animal | UK Price Range | Per Share | Shares |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐄 Cow | £700–£1,500 | £100–£215 | 7 |
| 🐑 Sheep | £150–£350 | Full price | 1 |
| 🐐 Goat | £200–£400 | Full price | 1 |
| Overseas donation | £30–£80 | Full | 1 |
No — UK law requires animal slaughter to take place at a licensed slaughterhouse. Home Qurbani is not legally permitted in the UK.
Yes — scholars widely accept overseas Qurbani as fully valid. The place of sacrifice does not affect validity.
Perform your Qurbani according to the date declared by your local mosque or the authority you follow. Either the Saudi moon sighting or local UK sighting is acceptable.
Use our free UK Qurbani Calculator 2026
Every expense you need to plan for your Islamic wedding in the UK — nothing forgotten
The single most important step before booking any Nikah vendor is agreeing on a total budget between both families. Many Muslim weddings spiral into debt because costs are added one by one without a clear overall limit. The Prophet ﷺ said: "The best of marriages are the easiest ones." Set your total budget first — then plan within it.
Allah says: "Give the women their Mahr as a gift." (Surah An-Nisa 4:4). The Mahr is not optional — it is an Islamic obligation. Agree the amount and type of Mahr clearly before the Nikah. Record it in the Nikah contract. It belongs entirely to the bride and cannot be taken back without her free consent.
This is a cultural and family matter. Many Pakistani and Bangladeshi families traditionally split costs — the groom's family covers certain items and the bride's family covers others. Agree clearly upfront to avoid disputes.
A modest but beautiful UK Nikah can be done for £8,000–£15,000. A mid-range celebration typically costs £20,000–£35,000. Large elaborate weddings can exceed £50,000. Use our calculator to plan your specific numbers.
Limit the guest list — catering is the biggest single cost. Use a community hall instead of a hotel. Send digital invitations. Keep decoration simple and elegant. Skip the limo and use a nice family car.
Enter all your costs and see your complete wedding budget instantly
Real cost breakdowns for Muslim weddings in the UK — from modest to elaborate
| Budget Type | Total Cost | Guests |
|---|---|---|
| Modest Nikah | £5,000–£12,000 | 50–100 |
| Mid-Range | £15,000–£30,000 | 150–250 |
| Elaborate | £35,000–£60,000+ | 300–600 |
The biggest driver of Nikah cost is the number of guests. Each additional guest adds roughly £60–£120 in catering alone. Before agreeing on a venue or caterer, agree on the guest list first.
| Item | Modest | Mid-Range | Elaborate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Venue hire | £800–£2,000 | £2,500–£5,000 | £6,000–£15,000 |
| Catering (per head) | £30–£50 | £50–£80 | £80–£130 |
| Cake and desserts | £200–£400 | £500–£1,000 | £1,000–£3,000 |
| Decoration | £500–£1,500 | £2,000–£4,000 | £5,000–£15,000 |
| Item | Modest | Mid-Range | Elaborate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bride's outfit | £300–£800 | £1,000–£3,000 | £3,000–£8,000 |
| Makeup and styling | £200–£400 | £500–£1,000 | £1,000–£2,500 |
| Groom's outfit | £200–£400 | £500–£1,000 | £1,000–£3,000 |
| Jewellery | £500–£2,000 | £3,000–£8,000 | £10,000–£30,000 |
Professional Muslim wedding photography in the UK typically costs between £1,200 and £5,000 for a full day package including edited photos and a highlight video. Many couples pay this happily because the photos last a lifetime. Consider booking a photographer who has experience with Islamic weddings and understands the importance of hijab and segregation requirements.
Mahr amounts vary enormously between UK Muslim families. Common ranges in 2026 are £1,000–£5,000 for cash Mahr among modest families, £5,000–£15,000 for mid-range, and £20,000 or more for families where gold jewellery forms the Mahr. Remember that Mahr is the wife's right — it should be agreed freely and should not be inflated as a social status symbol, nor should it be minimised to take advantage of the bride.
This varies by culture and family agreement. Islamically there is no fixed rule — both families can contribute. What matters is clear agreement upfront to avoid disputes.
It is not haram to take a loan per se but starting married life in debt is strongly discouraged. The Prophet ﷺ praised simple weddings. If you need a loan for a wedding, seriously reconsider the scale.
Service charges — many venues add 10-15% service charge on top of catering. Also tipping vendors, last-minute additions and alterations to the bridal outfit.
Add all your costs and see the complete breakdown instantly
How to have a beautiful blessed Islamic wedding without debt — practical tips for UK Muslims
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "The most blessed Nikah is the one that is made easiest." (Al-Bayhaqi). He also praised simple weddings and warned against extravagance. Uqbah ibn Amir (RA) narrated that the Prophet ﷺ said: "The best Mahr is the simplest." (Abu Dawud). The beauty of a Nikah is in its sincerity, its dua, and the blessing of the gathering — not in the size of the flower arrangements.
Many UK Muslim couples begin married life carrying £20,000–£50,000 of debt from wedding expenses. This puts enormous financial and emotional strain on a new marriage from day one. Starting debt-free with even a modest Nikah is far more blessed and sensible.
A beautiful, dignified, completely halal Nikah in the UK can be achieved for £5,000–£10,000. Here is a suggested allocation for a modest but lovely 100-guest Nikah:
| Item | Budget |
|---|---|
| Venue (community/mosque hall) | £500–£1,000 |
| Catering (100 guests at £40/head) | £4,000 |
| Bride outfit and styling | £800 |
| Groom outfit | £300 |
| Photography (local photographer) | £600 |
| Simple decoration | £400 |
| Invitations (digital) | £0 |
| Imam and registration | £200 |
| Total | ~£7,800 |
The guest list is the single biggest lever you have over your wedding budget. Every guest added costs roughly £60–£100 in catering, venue space and favours. Going from 300 guests to 150 guests saves you £9,000–£15,000 instantly. Be kind but firm — your Nikah is for your close family and dearest friends, not your entire extended network.
The people who matter will respect your wisdom. A simple Nikah that starts a debt-free marriage is far more honourable than an elaborate wedding financed by loans.
Yes — the Walima can be held on the day of the Nikah or within three days after. It can be as simple as a family meal at home.
Have a calm honest conversation about your financial situation. Many families respond positively when they understand the real costs. You can also remind them of the Islamic position on simplicity in marriage.
Calculate your exact budget with our free Nikah Cost Calculator
The costs most Muslim couples forget to budget for — plan ahead and avoid surprises
Add at least 10–15% contingency to your total budget. On a £20,000 wedding this means keeping £2,000–£3,000 in reserve.
It is not obligatory but is a kind gesture. A tip of £50–£100 for the photographer, makeup artist and caterer is appreciated if you are happy with their work.
Get a fully itemised written quote before signing any contract. Ask specifically about service charges, overtime fees, cleaning costs and any minimum spend requirements.
Use our Nikah Calculator to add every expense and see your total
A month by month guide to planning your Islamic wedding in the UK — stress free
A beautiful Nikah can absolutely be planned in 3–6 months. Focus on booking venue, caterer and Imam first. Everything else can follow.
A Muslim wedding coordinator who understands Islamic requirements can reduce stress significantly, especially for larger weddings. Costs typically range from £500–£2,000 for UK weddings.
Ideally on the same day as the Nikah or within a week. Do not delay the civil registration — it protects both parties legally.
Use our free Nikah Cost Calculator to plan every expense
A clear simple guide to understanding how Islamic inheritance works — no legal jargon
Islamic inheritance law — known in Arabic as Ilm ul Faraid or the science of obligatory shares — is a divinely prescribed system for distributing the estate of a deceased Muslim. Unlike conventional law which allows you to leave your wealth to anyone you choose, Islamic inheritance assigns specific shares to specific relatives according to precise rules revealed in the Quran.
The Prophet ﷺ emphasised its importance: "Learn the laws of inheritance and teach them to the people, for it is half of knowledge and it will be forgotten." (Ibn Majah). This statement shows that understanding inheritance is considered half of all Islamic knowledge — yet it remains one of the most neglected areas of Islamic education among UK Muslims today.
Allah revealed the inheritance laws directly in Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4) of the Holy Quran, in verses 11, 12 and 176. These verses specify exact fractional shares for the spouse, children, parents and siblings. Allah concludes these verses with a powerful reminder: "These are the limits set by Allah. Whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger will be admitted to gardens under which rivers flow. But whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger and transgresses His limits — He will put them into the Fire." (An-Nisa 4:13-14)
Islamic inheritance law recognises six fixed fractional shares. Every heir either receives one of these fixed shares or takes a portion of the residue after fixed shares are distributed.
| Share | Who Receives It | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| ½ | Husband / 1 Daughter / 1 Sister | When specific conditions apply |
| ¼ | Husband / Wife | Husband with children; Wife without |
| ⅛ | Wife or wives | When deceased had children |
| ⅔ | 2+ Daughters / 2+ Sisters | When no son present |
| ⅓ | Mother / 2+ siblings | When deceased had no children |
| ⅙ | Father / Mother | When deceased had children |
After fixed shares are distributed, any remaining portion of the estate goes to residuary heirs (Asabah). The most common residuary heir is the son — sons and daughters together share the remainder of the estate, with each son receiving double the share of each daughter. The father also receives the residue when there are no children. Use our Islamic Inheritance Calculator to see how this works with your specific family situation.
UK law does not automatically apply Islamic inheritance rules. Under UK intestacy rules, if a Muslim dies without a valid will, the estate is distributed according to English law which may differ significantly from Islamic requirements. For example, UK intestacy gives the surviving spouse a large share of the estate, whereas Islamic law gives the spouse only a fixed quarter or eighth, with the majority going to children and parents.
The Prophet ﷺ said: "It is not permissible for a Muslim who has anything to bequeath to spend two nights without having a written will." (Bukhari and Muslim). You can bequeath up to one third of your estate by will — but only to non-heirs. The Quranic shares for heirs are mandatory and cannot be overridden by a will.
UK law applies by default. To ensure Islamic inheritance, you need a valid Islamic will drawn up by a solicitor experienced in Islamic wills.
Under Islamic law, a wife receives ¼ or ⅛ of the estate — not everything. If you want to provide more for your wife, consider life insurance (Takaful) or property ownership structures, and consult a scholar.
Under UK intestacy rules, his estate may not be distributed Islamically. Encourage him to make an Islamic will as soon as possible. This is an urgent matter for every Muslim.
Use our free Islamic Inheritance Calculator — get exact amounts instantly
8 mistakes UK Muslims make with inheritance — and how to avoid family disputes
The most common and serious mistake. The majority of UK Muslims — even practising ones — do not have a valid Islamic will. When they die, their estate is distributed according to UK intestacy law which almost certainly does not match Islamic requirements. The Prophet ﷺ was clear: "It is not permissible for a Muslim who has anything to bequeath to spend two nights without having a written will." (Bukhari). Make your Islamic will today.
A cultural practice that has no basis in Islam. In Islamic inheritance law, all sons receive equal shares — there is no preference for the eldest. Furthermore, daughters also have a right to their share — one portion to every two portions for a son. Distributing only to the eldest son while excluding others is a serious injustice that many families will have to account for on the Day of Judgement.
Allah explicitly commands in the Quran that daughters have a right to inheritance — one half as much as a son's share. Sadly, in some South Asian families, daughters are pressured to waive their inheritance or are simply excluded. This is haram. The Quran is absolutely clear on this matter. A daughter who is excluded from inheritance has been wronged and has the right to claim her Islamic share.
Islamic law requires that all debts of the deceased must be paid in full before any inheritance is distributed to heirs. This includes loans, credit card debts, unpaid bills, money owed to individuals and — importantly — religious debts like unpaid Zakat and missed Hajj. Many families distribute the estate while ignoring debts, leaving creditors unpaid. This is a serious sin.
Many UK Muslims write conventional wills leaving everything to their spouse, thinking this is the safest and most loving thing to do. Under Islamic law, the wife receives ¼ or ⅛ — not everything. The children, parents and siblings also have rights. While leaving more to your wife through a conventional will is legally possible, it may cause family disputes and does not fulfil your Islamic obligations. Consider an Islamic will with proper legal advice.
It does not. UK law applies unless you have a valid will. For Islamic inheritance to be honoured in the UK, you need a will that is both Islamically sound and legally valid under English and Welsh law. A solicitor experienced in Islamic wills can achieve both simultaneously.
Many heirs do not know what they are entitled to receive. This leads to accepting less than their Quranic right, or causing disputes because no one knows the correct calculation. Use our free Islamic Inheritance Calculator to see exactly what each heir is entitled to before any difficult family conversations take place.
In many South Asian families, the family home and other assets remain undistributed for years or even decades after a death "to keep the family together." While the intention may be good, this creates legal complications, prevents heirs from using their rightful assets, and often causes severe family disputes later. Islamic scholars recommend distributing the estate as soon as practically possible after fulfilling the three prerequisites.
An adult heir can voluntarily waive their inheritance after being clearly informed of their full entitlement. This must be done freely without any pressure or coercion.
Yes — if an inheritance was distributed incorrectly, heirs who received more than their share should ideally return the excess. This may require family mediation. Consult an Islamic scholar and possibly a solicitor.
The heirs can agree to sell the property and divide the proceeds, or one heir can buy out the others at market value. They can also agree to keep it rented and share the income proportionally to their shares.
Use our free calculator to get every heir's exact entitlement
The priority order of heirs in Islamic inheritance law — simply explained
Islamic inheritance law divides heirs into three broad groups. Understanding these groups is the key to understanding who gets priority. The presence of heirs in a higher group can reduce or even eliminate the share of heirs in a lower group — this is called "blocking" (hajb).
Six heirs can never be blocked from inheritance — they always receive their share regardless of who else is alive. These are called the "primary" heirs:
| Heir | Always Inherits |
|---|---|
| 👨 Husband | ✅ Always — ¼ or ½ |
| 👩 Wife / Wives | ✅ Always — ⅛ or ¼ |
| 👦 Son | ✅ Always — residue |
| 👧 Daughter | ✅ Always — fixed or residue |
| 👴 Father | ✅ Always — ⅙ or residue |
| 👵 Mother | ✅ Always — ⅙ or ⅓ |
Some heirs block others from inheriting or reduce their share. The most important examples for UK families are:
If a Muslim dies with no surviving spouse, children, parents or siblings, the estate passes to more distant relatives — uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces in a specific order of priority. If there are truly no Muslim relatives at all, the estate should ideally be donated to Islamic charitable causes. In the UK, the state would otherwise claim it under the bona vacantia rules.
Under classical Islamic law, grandchildren are blocked by surviving children of the deceased. However this can cause hardship — an Islamic will can be used to bequeath up to ⅓ to grandchildren via Wasiyyah.
Non-Muslims cannot inherit from a Muslim estate in Islamic law. However a Muslim can leave up to ⅓ to non-Muslim family members through a Wasiyyah (will).
Yes — a daughter always inherits. When both sons and daughters are present, the estate is divided proportionally with sons receiving double daughters.
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What does ¼, ⅙, ⅔ actually mean in practice? — Simple explanations with real pound examples
Islamic inheritance shares are expressed as fractions of the total estate value. When you see "Wife receives ⅛" this means she receives one eighth of the entire estate value — whether that estate is worth £10,000 or £1,000,000. Let us look at a practical example to make this concrete.
| Spouse | No Children | With Children |
|---|---|---|
| Husband (wife died) | ½ of estate | ¼ of estate |
| Wife (husband died) | ¼ of estate | ⅛ of estate |
| Multiple wives | ¼ shared equally | ⅛ shared equally |
If a husband dies leaving an estate of £200,000 with no children, his wife receives ¼ = £50,000. If he had three children, she would receive ⅛ = £25,000, with the remaining £175,000 shared among the children and parents.
Children — sons and daughters — do not receive a fixed fraction. Instead they share the "residue" — whatever is left after all fixed-share heirs have been paid. Sons receive double the share of daughters. This is the explicit command of Allah in Surah An-Nisa 4:11.
| Parent | With Children | No Children |
|---|---|---|
| Father | ⅙ fixed share | Residue (all remaining) |
| Mother | ⅙ fixed share | ⅓ of estate |
| Both parents alive with children | Each gets ⅙ | — |
In Islamic polygynous marriages, all wives together receive the spouse's share — they do not each receive a full share individually. So if a man leaves two wives, they together receive ¼ (without children) or ⅛ (with children) — split equally between them. This is the ruling of the majority of scholars.
The total estate is £450,000 (assuming no debts). Apply the fractional shares to £450,000. You can then sell the house and distribute cash, or one heir can buy out the others at their share value.
Sometimes fixed shares together exceed 1 — this is called Awl (increase). The shares are proportionally reduced. Use our calculator which handles this automatically.
Our calculator gives you the Islamic shares which apply regardless of location. However the legal process for claiming inheritance in those countries is different — you may need a local lawyer and Islamic court order.
Enter any estate value and see pound amounts instantly
Step by step worked examples showing exactly how Islamic inheritance is calculated
Situation: Ahmed dies leaving an estate of £150,000 (after funeral costs and all debts paid). He is survived by his wife Fatima, their two sons (ages 12 and 8), one daughter (age 6), his mother, and his father. His brothers and sisters are all alive.
Situation: Khadija dies leaving an estate of £80,000. She is survived by her husband Ibrahim (70), their adult son and adult daughter. Her parents both died years ago. Her siblings are alive.
Situation: Mahmood dies leaving £300,000. He is survived by his wife, three sons and two daughters. His parents died previously. He has no siblings.
Situation: Hassan dies leaving £200,000. He is survived by his wife, two daughters (no sons), his father and his mother.
Awl occurs when fixed share heirs are so many that their total shares exceed 100%. The solution is to reduce each share proportionally. Our calculator handles this automatically.
Property is valued at current market value and included in the total estate. Heirs can either sell and divide proceeds, or one heir can buy out others at the proportional share value.
Yes — our Islamic Inheritance Calculator lets you enter your specific heirs and estate value to get exact amounts instantly, for free.
Enter your estate and heirs — get exact results in seconds
A complete beginner's guide to Islamic home finance in the UK — clearly explained
A conventional mortgage is a loan where you pay interest (riba) to the bank over the term. Allah has strictly forbidden riba in the Holy Quran in multiple places. The most powerful verse states: "Allah has permitted trade and forbidden riba. Those who return to it — they are the companions of the Fire." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:275). The Prophet ﷺ further emphasised this prohibition by cursing all parties involved in an interest transaction — the payer, receiver, writer and witnesses. (Sahih Muslim 1598)
The consensus of Islamic scholars is that a Muslim who has access to a halal alternative cannot use a conventional interest-based mortgage. In the UK, genuine halal alternatives are widely available — which means most UK Muslims have no excuse to use a conventional mortgage.
A halal mortgage is not a loan at all. It is a genuine co-ownership or lease arrangement between you and the bank. There are two main structures used in the UK — Diminishing Musharakah and Ijara. Both avoid interest entirely by using Islamically permissible contracts.
Under Diminishing Musharakah — the most common type in the UK — you and the bank jointly purchase the property together. You own a percentage from day one (your deposit) and the bank owns the rest. Each month you pay the bank two things: rent for the portion of the house you do not yet own, and a purchase payment to gradually buy more of the bank's share. Over 20–25 years, you buy the bank's entire share until you own 100% of the property.
| Type | How It Works | Main Provider |
|---|---|---|
| Diminishing Musharakah | Co-ownership — you buy bank's share gradually | Al Rayan, Gatehouse |
| Ijara (Lease to Own) | Bank buys, you lease, ownership transfers | Ahli United |
| Murabaha | Bank buys property, sells to you at agreed profit | Less common UK |
This is the question most UK Muslims ask. The answer — for genuine, certified Islamic mortgages — is yes. Products offered by Al Rayan Bank, Gatehouse Bank and Ahli United Bank have been reviewed and approved by qualified Sharia scholars. Al Rayan Bank has a dedicated Sharia supervisory committee. The key difference from a conventional mortgage is that the bank genuinely co-owns the property and takes real ownership risk — it is not simply repackaging a loan.
Halal mortgage rates in the UK are typically 0.5–1% higher than the equivalent conventional mortgage rate. On a £200,000 finance at 6% instead of 5%, this means approximately £100 more per month — or £24,000 more over a 20-year term. For many Muslims this additional cost is a small and acceptable price for the peace of mind of knowing their home finance is completely halal. The gap between halal and conventional rates has narrowed significantly over the past decade as Islamic banking has grown.
Yes — Al Rayan Bank offers products from 5% deposit specifically for first-time buyers. You can also combine a halal mortgage with a Lifetime ISA for an additional government bonus.
Maximum borrowing is typically 4–4.5 times your annual income. If this is not enough for your target property, consider buying with a partner, saving a larger deposit, or buying in a lower-cost area first.
Yes — this is possible and many Muslims have done it. Check your current mortgage for early repayment charges before switching.
Use our free calculator to see your monthly payments instantly
The most popular Islamic mortgage in the UK — how it works step by step
Musharakah is an Arabic word meaning "partnership" or "sharing." In Islamic finance, a Musharakah is a joint ownership arrangement where two or more parties own an asset together and share the profits and risks. Diminishing Musharakah refers specifically to a partnership where one party gradually buys out the other until full ownership is transferred — hence "diminishing" (the bank's share diminishes over time).
For Islamic home finance in the UK, Diminishing Musharakah means you and the bank become joint owners of your home from day one. The bank's ownership share gradually reduces month by month as you buy more of it, until you eventually own 100% of the property.
Every monthly payment consists of two components. The first is rent — you pay rent to the bank for the portion of the house it currently owns. This is not interest — it is genuine rent for genuine co-ownership. The second component is a purchase payment — you buy a small additional portion of the bank's share each month, increasing your ownership percentage.
As your ownership increases month by month, the bank's share decreases. This means the rent portion of your payment gradually decreases over the term. The purchase portion may stay the same or increase. Use our Halal Mortgage Calculator to see how different scenarios affect your monthly payment over the full term.
| Feature | Musharakah | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Legal structure | Co-ownership partnership | Loan with security |
| Monthly payment type | Rent + Purchase | Interest + Capital |
| Bank's role | Co-owner (genuine risk) | Lender (no ownership risk) |
| Sharia compliance | ✅ Halal | ❌ Contains riba |
| Property ownership day 1 | Shared (you + bank) | You (with charge) |
Yes — as a co-owner, the bank has rights to the property if you fail to meet the agreement terms. The process is similar to conventional repossession but governed by the partnership agreement.
Yes — most Islamic mortgage products allow overpayments, especially after any initial fixed-profit period. Check your specific product terms as early repayment charges may apply.
Both you and the bank lose value proportionally to your ownership shares. This is genuine shared risk and is one of the reasons Musharakah is Islamically sound.
See your monthly Musharakah payments with our free calculator
A full honest comparison — costs, benefits and Islamic perspective for UK Muslims
The most important difference between a halal mortgage and a conventional mortgage is not the monthly payment amount — it is the underlying legal structure and whether it involves riba (interest) or not. A conventional mortgage is a loan. The bank lends you money and charges you interest on that outstanding balance. A halal mortgage is not a loan — it is a genuine co-ownership or lease arrangement where the bank shares real ownership of your property.
For a Muslim, this difference is not merely technical — it is the difference between engaging in a transaction Allah has explicitly permitted and one He has explicitly forbidden. The Prophet ﷺ described riba as being worse than committing adultery thirty-six times. (Bayhaqi)
| Scenario | Halal Mortgage (6%) | Conventional (5%) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| £200,000 over 25 yrs | ~£1,289/mo | ~£1,169/mo | ~£120/mo more |
| Total paid over 25 yrs | ~£386,700 | ~£350,700 | ~£36,000 more |
| £300,000 over 25 yrs | ~£1,933/mo | ~£1,754/mo | ~£179/mo more |
The additional cost of a halal mortgage is real but manageable for most families. The gap has narrowed significantly in recent years. When compared to the spiritual cost of riba — which Allah describes as "war with Allah and His Messenger" — the extra monthly cost is a small and worthwhile price for many UK Muslims.
| Feature | Halal Mortgage | Conventional |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | 4–5 UK lenders | 50+ UK lenders |
| Rate type | Fixed profit rate | Fixed or variable interest |
| Lifetime ISA compatible | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Help to Buy compatible | ✅ Yes (Al Rayan) | ✅ Yes |
| Buy-to-let available | ✅ Yes (Gatehouse) | ✅ Yes |
| New build available | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Stamp Duty | Single payment | Single payment |
For a practising Muslim in the UK, a halal mortgage is unambiguously the correct choice — the extra cost is modest and genuine halal alternatives are readily available from regulated UK banks. The question of "which is better" only arises if someone has convinced themselves that the higher cost is not worth it.
Consider it this way: if a halal mortgage costs you £120 more per month than a conventional one, that is £1,440 per year. In exchange, you have complete peace of mind that your most significant financial commitment — your home — is free from riba. For most families, this is a straightforward choice.
Some Muslims argue that a conventional mortgage is permitted in the UK because of "necessity" (darurah). The vast majority of Islamic scholars reject this argument for UK Muslims because genuine halal alternatives exist and are accessible. Al Rayan Bank offers products from 5% deposit — the same minimum as many conventional lenders. The necessity argument cannot be applied when a lawful alternative is available.
The permissibility of a transaction is not determined by how quickly you exit it. Taking a conventional mortgage — even if paid off early — still involves entering a riba-based contract.
Focus on increasing your deposit to reduce the finance amount needed. Also consider buying jointly with a spouse or family member to increase total income for assessment.
Halal mortgages typically have fixed profit rate periods of 2–5 years, after which they move to a variable rate. This is structurally similar to conventional fixed-rate mortgages.
Calculate your halal mortgage monthly payment now — free
Everything UK Muslims need to know about buying a home the halal way in 2026
The UK is home to the largest Islamic banking sector outside of the Muslim world. Several fully regulated Sharia-compliant banks offer home finance products to UK Muslims, providing genuine halal alternatives to conventional mortgages. The market has grown significantly over the past decade with more products, more competitive rates and greater accessibility for first-time buyers.
Islamic home finance in the UK is fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) — the same regulatory bodies that oversee conventional banks. This means you have exactly the same consumer protections with an Islamic mortgage as with a conventional one.
UK Muslims can take full advantage of government home-buying schemes with Islamic mortgages. The Lifetime ISA (LISA) allows first-time buyers under 40 to save up to £4,000 per year and receive a 25% government bonus — up to £1,000 free money per year. Both Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank accept LISA funds as part of your deposit for Islamic home finance.
Islamic mortgage lenders assess eligibility similarly to conventional lenders. They look at your credit history, income, existing commitments and the property value. A good credit score significantly improves your chances of approval and access to better rates. If your credit score is low, spend 6–12 months improving it before applying — pay all bills on time, reduce credit card balances and avoid new credit applications.
| Bank | Type | Min Deposit | Buy-to-Let | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Rayan Bank | Musharakah | 5% | ✅ | alrayanbank.co.uk |
| Gatehouse Bank | Musharakah | 15% | ✅ | gatehousebank.com |
| Ahli United Bank | Ijara | 20% | Limited | ahliunitedbank.com |
| UBL UK | Musharakah | 10% | Limited | ubluk.com |
A broker experienced in Islamic mortgages can save you significant time and potentially get you a better rate. They know which lenders are most likely to approve your application based on your circumstances.
Typically 8–16 weeks from application to completion, similar to a conventional mortgage. Factor in additional time for the Sharia supervisory approval step.
Yes — Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank both offer products for new build properties including Help to Buy equity loan schemes.
Free halal mortgage calculator — results in seconds
Every question UK Muslims ask about Islamic home finance — answered clearly and honestly
Genuine halal mortgages from Al Rayan Bank, Gatehouse Bank and Ahli United Bank are structurally different from conventional mortgages. The bank genuinely co-owns the property and takes real ownership risk. This has been confirmed by qualified Sharia scholars. However some "halal" products from non-specialist banks may not meet genuine Sharia standards — always check the Sharia certification.
Yes — Al Rayan Bank offers products from just 5% deposit, making it accessible for first-time buyers. You can also combine this with a Lifetime ISA for a 25% government bonus on your savings.
Minimum 5% at Al Rayan Bank. 10–15% gives you access to more products and better rates. 20–25% deposit gets you the most competitive profit rates available.
Typically yes, by 0.5–1% on the profit rate. On a £250,000 finance this means approximately £80–£150 more per month. The gap has narrowed significantly and for many Muslims this is a worthwhile price for halal peace of mind.
Yes — Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank both accept Lifetime ISA funds as part of your deposit. This is an excellent way to build your deposit with a 25% government bonus.
Yes — Gatehouse Bank offers buy-to-let Islamic mortgages and Al Rayan Bank also offers some buy-to-let products. Al Rayan Bank also offers products for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO).
You can sell at any time. The proceeds are used to buy out the bank's remaining share, with the rest going to you. The process is similar to paying off a conventional mortgage early.
Yes — you can remortgage to Al Rayan or Gatehouse Bank. Check your existing mortgage for early repayment charges before doing so, as these can be significant during a fixed rate period.
Most products have early repayment charges during the fixed profit rate period, typically 1–5% of the outstanding finance amount. After the fixed period, overpayments are usually accepted without penalty.
Yes — all regulated UK Islamic banks perform credit checks as part of their assessment. A poor credit history will affect your eligibility and rates just as with a conventional lender.
Yes — Al Rayan Bank and Gatehouse Bank both offer products for new build properties. The Help to Buy equity loan scheme is also compatible with Islamic mortgages from Al Rayan Bank.
Islamic mortgage lenders typically lend 4–4.5 times your annual income for single applicants. Joint applications use combined income. The exact amount depends on your income, credit score, deposit size and the lender's assessment.
Historically, double Stamp Duty Land Tax was charged on Islamic mortgages because the bank technically bought and then sold the property. HMRC introduced relief in 2003 to avoid this — you should only pay Stamp Duty once. Confirm this with your solicitor and lender.
Yes — Islamic mortgages in the UK are available to everyone regardless of religion. Some non-Muslims choose them because they like the co-ownership model or want to avoid variable interest rates.
For most people, yes. A broker specialising in Islamic mortgages can identify the best product for your circumstances, handle paperwork and improve your chances of approval. Some brokers charge a fee; others are paid by the lender.
Use our free Halal Mortgage Calculator — instant results