Can Women Perform Qurbani in Islam? Rules, Rights, and Recommendations

Qurbani Easy Editorial Team

The Qurbani Easy Editorial Team comprises Islamic scholars, content specialists, and community outreach professionals dedicated to making Qurbani accessible, transparent, and Shariah-compliant for Muslims worldwide. Every article is reviewed by our Advisory Board before publication.

Last reviewed: June 19, 2026 · Published: June 19, 2026

Many Muslim women ask: is Qurbani obligatory on women? Can women perform Qurbani themselves? What if a woman cannot afford it? This article answers these questions based on authentic Islamic sources.

Is Qurbani Obligatory on Women?

According to the majority of scholars (Hanafi, Shafii, Hanbali), Qurbani is obligatory (wajib) on every adult Muslim who has the financial means — this includes women. The obligation is based on the verse: “So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone]” (Surah Al-Kawthar 108:2).

However, the Maliki school considers it a highly recommended Sunnah rather than obligatory. In either case, women are encouraged to participate.

Can a Woman Slaughter the Animal Herself?

Yes. In Islam, a woman can slaughter an animal if she is capable and follows the correct Islamic method (tayyibah). The conditions are the same as for men:

• The animal must be healthy and of the correct age
• The slaughter must be performed with a sharp knife
• The name of Allah must be pronounced (Bismillah, Allahu Akbar)
• The throat must be cut swiftly to minimize suffering

In practice, most women appoint a representative (wakil) to perform the slaughter on their behalf — which is perfectly valid in Islam.

Can a Woman Perform Qurbani on Behalf of Her Husband?

No. Each adult Muslim must perform their own Qurbani if they have the means. A wife cannot perform Qurbani on behalf of her husband, nor vice versa. However, a husband and wife can share a larger animal (cow/buffalo) — each can take one share out of seven.

Qurbani for a Married Woman — Who Pays?

A married woman is financially independent in Islam. If she has her own wealth (savings, salary, gold, etc.) that reaches the nisab threshold, she must perform her own Qurbani from her own funds. Her husband is not obligated to pay for her Qurbani unless he chooses to do so as a gift.

Can Women Participate in Qurbani Online?

Absolutely. Thousands of Muslim women around the world — from India to the UAE, USA, UK, and Canada — book their Qurbani online through Qurbani Easy. You can select your package, pay online, and receive WhatsApp video proof of your Qurbani being performed and distributed to needy families. Book your Qurbani 2027 now →