Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance
Small business loans for shopkeepers, vendors and home-based workers to start or grow an income source.
Interest-free loans in Pakistan, explained simply
Akhuwat lends money without interest so families can start a business, pay for school or fix a home. This guide covers loan types, eligibility, documents and how to apply.
See how to apply Official Akhuwat siteWhat is Akhuwat?
Akhuwat (Urdu for "brotherhood") is a Pakistani non-profit founded in 2001 in Lahore. It provides interest-free loans (Qarz-e-Hasna) to poor and low-income families. Borrowers repay only what they borrowed, and those repayments, together with donations, fund loans for the next person.
Independent guide. This website is an informational resource and is not the official Akhuwat site. For applications, branch locations and donations, always use akhuwat.org.pk.
Akhuwat loan types
Akhuwat Education Loans
Support for students and families to pay tuition and education costs without interest.
Akhuwat Housing Loans
Help to build, repair or extend a home for low-income families.
Akhuwat Family Loans
Loans for urgent family needs such as medical costs or household emergencies.
Loan names, amounts and availability change. Confirm current details with your local branch.
How to apply for an Akhuwat loan
Check eligibility
Confirm you are a Pakistani resident with a genuine need and a plan for using the loan.
Visit your nearest branch
Akhuwat works through branches and local mosque / community-based processes. Ask for the loan officer.
Submit documents
Bring your CNIC copy, a guarantor's CNIC, proof of address and details of your business or need.
Verification
Staff visit or interview you to verify your situation. There is no interest or processing charge.
Receive and repay
Repay the exact amount you borrowed in instalments. Your repayment funds the next borrower.
Frequently asked questions
What is Akhuwat?
Akhuwat is a Pakistani non-profit organisation, founded in 2001, that provides interest-free loans (Qarz-e-Hasna) to poor and low-income families so they can build a sustainable livelihood.
Are Akhuwat loans really interest-free?
Yes. Borrowers repay only the principal amount they received. Akhuwat does not charge interest, and the model relies on donations and repayments to keep lending.
Who can apply for an Akhuwat loan?
Low-income individuals and families in Pakistan with a genuine need, valid CNIC and a guarantor can apply. Exact criteria vary by loan type and branch.
What documents are required?
Usually a copy of your CNIC, a guarantor's CNIC, proof of residence and details of your business or purpose. Confirm the current list with your local branch.
How can I apply?
Visit your nearest Akhuwat branch and speak to a loan officer. Check the official website for branch locations and current procedures.
How can I donate to Akhuwat?
Donations can be made through the official Akhuwat channels. Always use the official website to avoid fraud.
Want to help?
Every donation is lent again and again. Give only through the official Akhuwat website and be careful of unofficial requests for money.