Qurbani (Udhiyah) is the sacrifice Muslims perform on Eid ul Adha to express gratitude to Allah, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) — before Allah replaced Ismail with a ram in his place. But not every Muslim is required to perform it. Here’s exactly who is eligible.
1. The Nisab Threshold — Financial Capability
The core eligibility requirement is financial: any Muslim — male or female, adult or child — whose net wealth meets or exceeds the Nisab threshold on the day of Eid must perform Qurbani (or have it performed on their behalf, in the case of a child).
Nisab is calculated based on wealth beyond your basic needs, including:
- Cash and bank balances (checking and savings)
- Gold and silver
- Business stock or merchandise
- Property beyond your primary home, and other assets not needed for daily living (a family car used for necessary transport, for example, is excluded)
Wealth used for everyday essentials — your home, your car, your clothing — is not counted toward the Nisab calculation. Most scholars agree Qurbani becomes obligatory (wajib) for anyone who meets this threshold on the day of Eid and through the following two days (the days of Tashreeq).
2. Adult and of Sound Mind
Qurbani is obligatory on every adult Muslim of sound mind who meets the Nisab threshold. This means:
- It is not obligatory on children, though parents may choose to perform it on a child’s behalf as a recommended act.
- It is not required of someone who is not of sound mind.
- Anyone who doesn’t meet the Nisab threshold may still choose to perform Qurbani voluntarily, though it isn’t obligatory for them.
3. Residence — Travellers Are Exempt
A Muslim who is travelling during the days of Eid al-Adha is exempted from the obligation, based on the Hadith noting that Qurbani is not mandatory on a traveller. Many scholars still encourage travellers who can afford it to perform Qurbani voluntarily, even though it isn’t required of them.
Is Qurbani Obligatory for Women?
Yes. The same Nisab-based rule applies equally to women — any woman whose personal wealth meets or exceeds the Nisab threshold is required to perform Qurbani, independent of her husband’s or family’s financial situation.
Performing Qurbani on Behalf of Others
Qurbani performed on behalf of someone else is permissible, and commonly done for:
- Family members: on behalf of a spouse, children, or dependents.
- Deceased loved ones: performing Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away is considered a virtuous, though not obligatory, act by many scholars.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself performed Qurbani on behalf of his family and others, which is the basis scholars cite for this practice.
How the Meat Should Be Distributed
The recommended distribution is three equal parts:
- One-third for yourself and your family
- One-third for relatives and friends
- One-third for the poor and needy
This distribution reflects the social and charitable purpose of Qurbani — ensuring the benefit of the sacrifice reaches beyond the person performing it.
Performing Your Qurbani with Qurbani Easy
If you meet the eligibility requirements above, Qurbani Easy handles the full process for families across India — animal sourcing from a trusted local network, Shariah-compliant slaughter, and documented meat distribution to those in need. See available Qurbani packages.
Conclusion
Qurbani is obligatory for any adult Muslim of sound mind who meets the Nisab threshold, with travellers exempted and the option to perform it on behalf of family members, including the deceased. Understanding these requirements ensures your Qurbani fulfils its religious obligation correctly.