Is it permissible to pay the zakat on money saved to buy land directly to the poor?

Wealth is divided into two categories: apparent and hidden. It is preferable to pay the zakat on apparent wealth (livestock, crops, fruits, minerals) to the just ruler, though the owner may distribute it himself. As for hidden wealth (saved money), it is preferable for the owner to distribute it himself, and this is a matter upon which Muslims have agreed, with no disagreement concerning it.