In the last 20 years, Islamic finance has become a multi-trillion-dollar industry. Once considered niche, it is now a key part of financial systems in the GCC, Southeast Asia, and beyond. The next phase of growth, however, will bring significant changes.
In an exclusive opinion piece for Islamic Finance News, Khaled Berjawi, Senior Vice President of Islamic Banking at Azentio, discusses the key forces shaping the future of Islamic fintech.
Technology has shifted from a supporting role to becoming the central driver of innovation, inclusion, and trust within Islamic financial services. Digital-first strategies and embedded finance are redefining how products are launched and delivered, enabling new entrants to scale quickly and meet customers where they already are.
AI is taking center stage in strengthening Shariah governance, helping financial institutions manage risk while preserving scholars’ critical oversight. Alternative finance is also creating more opportunities for inclusion and investment, giving SMEs and younger investors better access to ethical, asset-backed options in the GCC and Southeast Asia.
He also highlights how important regulation, inclusion, and sustainability are for realizing this potential. Although differences in Shariah interpretation can make cross-border growth difficult, the shared goals of Islamic finance and sustainability are creating new avenues for impactful growth.
The combination of digital innovation, AI-driven oversight, new financing models, and working with regulators marks a significant turning point for Islamic fintech.
Khaled writes, “The story of Islamic fintech is still being written. If we get this right, Islamic fintech will not only expand access and efficiency, but it will also embody the very principles of fairness and inclusivity that define Islamic finance at its best.”
At Azentio, we facilitate this change with our AAOIFI-certified Islamic banking solutions, which combine innovation with a strong commitment to Shari’ah principles.
To read the full opinion piece, download here
This article was first published in IFN Volume 22 Issue 41, dated 15th October, 2025.