Is participating in prize draws using shopping mall coupons permissible or forbidden?

Scholars have differed concerning the ruling on prize draws offered by companies. Some have deemed them forbidden, while others have permitted them under two conditions: that the price of the commodity does not increase because of the prize, and that the buyer purchases the commodity out of need, not merely for the competition. Prohibition is the view of Sheikh Ibn Baz and the Permanent Committee, while permissibility with conditions is the view of Sheikh Al-Uthaymeen.

Sheikh Al-Uthaymeen clarified that the matter relates to both the seller and the buyer: - Regarding the seller: If the price is increased because of the prize, then this is not permissible because it becomes gambling (maysir), where the buyer is either a winner or a loser. However, if the seller sells at market price without an increase, then it is permissible for him to offer prizes to encourage purchases. - Regarding the buyer: If the buyer purchases the commodity out of need, then there is no harm in purchasing it from a seller who offers prizes, provided the price is the market price. However, if the buyer purchases the commodity solely for the prize without needing it, this falls under wasting money, which is forbidden. Finally, the state may intervene to prevent these practices if it deems that they cause market instability or harm to other merchants.