Is it preferable to give Zakat to one person or distribute it among several?

As the Ramadan moon has been sighted in Pakistan, the distribution of Zakat is also going on. 

The person paying Zakat has the choice: they may give the entire amount to a single eligible recipient, or they may divide it among several deserving individuals. Both options are permissible.

However, it is considered disliked (makruh) — without specific need — to give such a large amount to one recipient that they themselves become sahib-e-nisab (possessing wealth above the Zakat threshold).

Nevertheless, even if the full amount is given at once to one eligible person, the obligation of Zakat is fulfilled.

As for what is preferable, it depends on the circumstances.

If one individual is in greater need — for example, due to a large family, heavy expenses, or debt — and the entire Zakat amount would be used to meet their genuine needs, then giving the full amount to that one person is preferable so that their hardship may be properly relieved.

However, if the full Zakat amount exceeds the needs of one individual, then it is preferable to distribute it among several deserving people, so that more individuals may benefit and their needs be met.

In short, both approaches are valid, and preference depends on the situation and the level of need.