Dear Colleagues and Friends,
It is both an honour and a privilege to assume the role of Director at the IBA - Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance. CEIF was founded with a clear vision: to serve as a world-class platform for the discovery, enhancement, and dissemination of knowledge in Islamic Finance, while contributing meaningfully to industry development both locally and globally.
The Islamic finance industry continues its robust growth trajectory. According to the Islamic Finance Development Report 2023 by the London Stock Exchange Group, the global Islamic finance industry is projected to reach USD 6.67 trillion by 2027, with over 1,871 institutions across 120 countries offering Shariah-compliant solutions. The current global asset base has already surpassed USD 4.5 trillion, reflecting the increasing trust in and adoption of Islamic financial principles.
This growth aligns strongly with global priorities, especially the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Islamic finance, by design, promotes ethical investing and financial inclusion. It plays a growing role in green finance by directing capital into sustainable initiatives, such as renewable energy projects and low-carbon technologies, using innovative instruments like green Sukuk.
Furthermore, the integration of financial technology (Fintech) into Islamic finance presents powerful new opportunities. Tools like blockchain-based Sukuk, smart contracts, and Shariah-compliant crowdfunding platforms can enhance transparency, reduce transaction costs, and empower SMEs and eco-conscious ventures, thereby contributing to sustainable economic development.
In this dynamic environment, CEIF remains committed to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs. We offer a range of impactful programs, including Executive Learning, Practitioners’ Qualification Series, Leadership Dialogues, Seminars, and our International Lecture Series—bringing together scholars, practitioners, regulators, and policymakers.
As Director, I envision CEIF continuing to lead as a hub of research excellence, a training ground for industry professionals, and a platform for innovation and global dialogue in Islamic Finance. Together with our team and partners, we look forward to shaping the future of a finance system rooted in ethics, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Warm regards,
Dr. Irum Saba
Director
Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance (CEIF)
Institute of Business Administration (IBA), Karachi