Performing Haj and Umrah while in Debt
Question
Is it permissible for someone to do Haj or Umrah when they are in debt? Should someone hold off on doing Umrah and Haj until they pay back the debt?
Answer
If the debts are structured in monthly payments and one is meeting such payments then it will be permitted to perform Haj and Umrah despite being in debt. However, if such debts are accruing interest then one must pay off the debt before going for Umrah and Haj as it is compulsory to remove the yoke of interest from your neck as soon as possible. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam cursed the one who consumes riba and the one who pays it. (Muslim #1598)
If the debt is not structured over a long term then one must pay the debt first or take permission from one’s creditors before performing Haj and Umrah.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best
- Answered by
- Mufti Moosa Salie, Mufti Taahir Hansa
Fatawa SA is an independent, read-only index of fatawa already published by Jamiatul Ulama KZN. It is not a fatwa service. For your own situation, ask the issuing Darul Ifta directly.