Doctors Without Borders / Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) presents those donating in and out of Switzerland and Liechtenstein with the possibility of making an Islamic compliant gift, while satisfying to the regulatory tax deductions if need be.
MSF’s social mission of providing assistance and medical care to people, based on their needs and irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation, naturally aligns with the principles of Islamic Charity, having no affiliations with entities or businesses that contravene these principles. We can accept the full range of alms, proceeds, and dividends (Zakat, Sadaqah, purification money, Waqf…), as there are no objections to our organisation being the recipient of such funds.
We have been advised by a prominent Islamic law advisory firm that ensures we can allocate gifts in accordance with both our medical humanitarian requirements and Islamic principles. We have thus been provided with the relevant guidelines to ensure Islamic compliance, especially for Zakat.
MSF is committed to utilising Zakat funds in alignment with Islamic principles to support humanitarian and medical assistance programs worldwide. Since January 2025, we proudly offer a Zakat vehicle, with all necessary arrangements in place to receive, manage, and disburse your alms in compliance with our guidelines. Contact us to know what projects in what countries you can allocate your Zakat to, and what are the eligible type of expenses and countries where it is permissible for us to spend it.
Our supported medical activities are always provided completely free of charge, and align with the stipulated categories of Zakat eligibility. Kindly request our Zakat policy that details how funds are collected and utilised in a manner that maximises their impact on alleviating suffering and promoting health and well-being, in line with Islamic principles.
By adhering to this policy and its issued guidelines, MSF upholds its commitment to transparency, accountability, as well as Islamic law compliance.
MSF is lastly dedicated to establishing partnerships and developing successful practices in implementing and processing Islamic Social Finance instruments and donations.
We warmly invite you to contact Aurélie Boss (aurelie.boss@geneva.msf.org) for any questions or additional information. She will be delighted to provide guidance and support tailored to your interests.
Please use the following bank details for your donations:
Bank Name: UBS SA, CH - 1211 Genève 2
Account Name: Médecins Sans Frontières
Account Number: 240-376066.00Q
IBAN: CH18 0024 0240 3760 6600 Q
BIC: UBSWCHZH80A
Please label your transfer as "Islamic Giving" to guarantee optimal traceability of your gift.
MSF’s humanitarian mission to provide medical aid based on needs, and without any discrimination, naturally aligns with the principles of Islamic Charity. Offering Islamic-compliant giving options enables faith-inspired supporters to fulfil their religious obligations while contributing to life-saving work.
Yes, in 2022 the Religious Board of a prominent Islamic advisory firm formally endorsed MSF’s ability to receive, ask and process Zakat and other Islamic charitable donations in a compliant manner.
Yes, Islamic donations, including Sadaqah and Zakat, can be used for MSF’s humanitarian activities as long as they comply with the guidelines the organisation received, and align with our core values.
MSF’s social mission is inherently aligned with Islamic charity principles. MSF has no affiliations with non-permissible (haram) industries such as tobacco or weapons. Our work is grounded in humanitarian values that closely mirror the protection of life, dignity, mental health, property, and faith of our patients.
MSF can receive all types of Islamic donations, including Sadaqah and Zakat. It can also benefit from different instruments, such as Waqf or Sukuk, when applicable and in line with guidance.
MSF has developed internal systems to:
If you are donating from Switzerland or Liechtenstein, your contribution may be tax-deductible. Please consult your local regulations or reach out for more information.
No, MSF does not invest donations in any profit-generating activities. Funds are used directly to support medical humanitarian projects, in line with both Islamic guidelines and MSF’s operational principles.
MSF maintains strict independence, neutrality and impartiality in all its operations. While we welcome and respect donations from all faiths, including Islamic philanthropy, these contributions do not influence our operational decisions. Our actions are guided solely by medical needs, and we remain independent from any political, economic, or other interests. MSF does therefore not make exceptions to its gift acceptance policy or core values.
Yes, MSF is eligible to receive and disburse Zakat. Our Zakat policy ensures all related funds are used in a compliant way. A selection of projects and activities is carefully presented to meet both humanitarian needs and Zakat eligibility, allowing donors to fulfil their Zakat obligations with confidence.
Zakat funds are allocated to specific MSF projects in countries with high humanitarian needs. Donors are welcome to express preferences for specific countries or themes, and we will share which projects currently meet our internal and Islamic compliance criteria.
Yes, donors who designate their contribution as Zakat or any Islamic form of giving may request a report detailing: