Is Zakat Due on Land Bought for Resale within 3-5 years?

Yes, Zakat is due annually if the land was purchased with the intention of resale.

If you purchased land to sell it in the future, it is considered a trade asset in Islamic teachings. Therefore, Zakat must be paid on it annually, just like any other business inventory.

Here’s how it works:

• Zakat Obligation: 

Since the land was bought for resale, it falls under the category of "zakatable assets." You must pay Zakat on its market value every year, even if you plan to sell it after 3-5 years or longer.

• Calculation of Zakat: 

Each year, you should assess the land's current market price and pay 2.5% of its value as Zakat.

• Change in Intention:
• If you later decide to keep the land for personal use, such as building a home, it will no longer be considered a trade asset. Likewise, if you hold the land as a long-term investment without the intention of selling, Zakat will not be due on it.
• If you still plan to sell it but the sale takes longer than expected, Zakat remains applicable as long as the resale intention remains.
• Annual Obligation: Zakat should be calculated based on the lunar year (Hijri calendar) rather than the Gregorian calendar.

Ultimately, fulfilling Zakat is a way to purify one’s wealth and earn blessings. 

And Allah knows best!

Other Zakat Questions You May Have

• Is Zakat Obligatory on Gifted Land?
• Is Zakat Due on Property Bought for Resale and Leased?
• Is Zakat Required on an Undivided Estate?
• Is Zakat Required on Land Bought for Resale in 3-5 Years?
• Do I Have to Pay Zakat on My Home?
• Is Zakat Due on Money I Intend to Gift in the Future?