A type of waqf (endowment) in which the yield (ghallah) is held in reserve so that it can be used at times of emergency or unexpected events (contingencies) that negatively influence the livelihood and well-being of a community of people. For example, waqf may be assigned to the satisfaction of specific needs such as medication for sick people who are unable to pay medication expenses and education of poor children. Waqf al-awaridh may also be used to finance maintenance of the utilities of a village or neighborhood.

It is also referred to as waqf al-awaridh or contingency endowment.