Returning a Gift in Islam: Ruling and Etiquette Explained

Islamic Ruling and Etiquette on Returning a Gift
✒ Fatwa by the Saudi Permanent Committee for Islamic Rulings
Fatwa No: 14379

❖ Returning a Gift and Its Etiquette​

✔ It is recommended (mustaḥabb) for the one who receives a gift to return something equal to it or better as a gesture of goodwill.


✔ However, it is not obligatory (wājib) to return a gift with something of equal value.


Islamic etiquette encourages:

• The giver to offer the gift solely for the sake of Allah, without expecting anything in return.
• The receiver to express gratitude and optionally reciprocate, but not out of obligation.

The true reward of giving a gift is to be sought from Allah, not from people.

❀ Summary:​

• Reciprocating a gift is preferred, but not required.
• Intention matters: one should give gifts hoping for divine reward, not worldly return.
• Returning a gift with appreciation and supplication is also a noble practice.

🖋 Reference:
Fatāwā al-Lajnah ad-Dā’imah – Fatwa No. 14379