Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 – AlHuda CIBE Brings Industry Leaders to Dubai, UAE

The Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 (GIFT Forum 2024), organized by the AlHuda Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics (CIBE), is poised to be one of the most influential and transformative events in the world of Islamic financial technology. This highly anticipated event will be held on December 9, 2024, at the prestigious Hyatt Regency in Dubai, UAE. The forum will be followed by an exclusive post-event workshop on December 10, 2024, offering participants the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the practical aspects of Islamic FinTech.

Bringing together over 20 international delegations, the forum will host some of the most prominent figures in Islamic finance, including regulators, policymakers, investors, and FinTech innovators. It serves as a platform for industry players to discuss the latest advancements, exchange ideas, and explore new business opportunities. With the demand for Shariah-compliant financial services on the rise, GIFT Forum 2024 aims to establish Dubai as a global hub for Islamic FinTech.

Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024

The rise of Islamic FinTech represents a revolutionary shift in how Islamic financial services are offered. Unlike conventional financial services, Islamic FinTech adheres to the principles of Shariah compliance, ensuring that services do not involve riba (interest), gharar (uncertainty), or maysir (gambling). This distinct approach caters to the needs of both Muslim and non-Muslim investors who prioritize ethical finance.

According to DinarStandard, the global Islamic FinTech market is projected to grow from $100 billion in 2023 to $180 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 17.9%, outpacing the overall FinTech market. The surge in demand for Shariah-compliant finance is driven by the increasing interest in ethical investment and socially responsible finance. GIFT Forum 2024 will play a crucial role in accelerating this growth, making Dubai a central player in the global Islamic FinTech landscape.

Related: What Is The State Of The Islamic Fintech Sector in GCC in 2024

Objectives of the Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024

The key objectives of the GIFT Forum 2024 are:

1. Technological Innovation
   The forum will showcase the latest FinTech innovations, such as blockchain-based smart contracts, Shariah-compliant crowdfunding platforms, and AI-driven financial advisory tools.

2. Knowledge Gaps
   One of the main goals of the event is to provide stakeholders with a clear understanding of how to align digital transformation with Shariah principles. The forum will offer insights into key topics like Islamic banking, neobanks, and AI-powered risk analysis.

3. Promoting Financial Inclusion
   With a focus on financial inclusion, GIFT Forum 2024 aims to improve access to Islamic finance for underserved communities. Discussions will revolve around how FinTech can support microfinance and peer-to-peer lending platforms to offer greater opportunities for marginalized communities.

4. Industry Collaboration
   By bringing together financial regulators, startups, venture capitalists, and scholars, the forum will serve as a networking hub for stakeholders to forge partnerships, build alliances, and promote industry growth.

5. Regulatory Framework
   Harmonizing Shariah compliance standards and establishing unified regulatory guidelines across jurisdictions will be a key topic of discussion. This has long been a challenge for Islamic finance institutions operating globally.

Distinguished Speakers

The Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 will feature an array of high-profile speakers and distinguished guests from around the world. Some of the confirmed guests include:

• H.E. Mohamad Hussain Sherif — Ambassador, Embassy of the Republic of Maldives, UAE
• H.E. Najmedin Mukhametaliuly — Ambassador, Embassy of Kazakhstan, UAE
• H.E. Muhammad Mizanur Rahman — Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Bangladesh, UAE
• H.E. Ali Zeb Khan — Trade & Investment Counsellor, Consulate General of Pakistan, UAE

Their participation signifies the event’s global importance and appeal. With their support, GIFT Forum 2024 will serve as a stage for thought leadership, industry engagement, and the development of a globally accepted Islamic FinTech ecosystem.

The GIFT Forum 2024 agenda is designed to foster engagement, learning, and networking. Key sessions, workshops, and discussions include:

1. The Future of Islamic FinTech

• How digital transformation is reshaping Islamic finance
• The role of AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics in Shariah-compliant banking
• Key opportunities in the development of Islamic Neobanks

2. Blockchain and Smart Contracts

• How blockchain is used in Shariah-compliant financial contracts
• Case studies of successful implementations of smart contracts in Islamic finance
• Regulatory challenges and governance in crypto-based Shariah products

3. Regulatory Frameworks

• Creating a global regulatory framework for Shariah compliance
• How regulators can support the growth of Islamic FinTech
• Cross-border regulatory challenges and solutions

4. Digital Payment Systems

• The role of QR-code-based payments in emerging Islamic markets
• How FinTech is transforming Islamic cross-border remittance services
• The rise of Islamic payment gateways for e-commerce platforms

5. Women in Islamic FinTech

• The growing role of women in Shariah-compliant financial services
• Women entrepreneurs driving innovation in Islamic FinTech
• How women-led startups are supporting financial inclusion for marginalized groups

Post-Event Workshop on December 10, 2024

Following the main event, GIFT Forum 2024 will offer an exclusive workshop designed to equip participants with hands-on knowledge of Islamic FinTech. Topics to be covered in the workshop include:

• Blockchain for Islamic Finance: Learn how to apply blockchain to Shariah-compliant financial transactions.
• Shariah-Compliant Crowdfunding: Explore how crowdfunding platforms can be developed using Shariah principles.
• AI in Islamic Banking: Hands-on demonstration of predictive modeling for risk assessment.
• Compliance and Governance: Understanding the role of Shariah advisory boards and the process for certifying Shariah-compliant products.

This workshop is ideal for bankers, venture capitalists, regulators, and FinTech entrepreneurs looking to gain a deeper understanding of operational challenges and opportunities in Islamic FinTech.

Why You Should Attend

If you’re involved in Islamic banking, FinTech, venture capital, or regulatory affairs, attending the Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 is a must. Here’s why:

1. Networking Opportunities
   Meet with some of the most influential figures in the Islamic finance industry, including CEOs, government officials, regulators, and investors from across the world.

2. Skill-Building
   Gain cutting-edge insights on how to leverage blockchain, AI, and digital transformation in your organization.

3. Showcase Your Brand
   With over 20 international delegations in attendance, the event offers an ideal platform to showcase your company’s products, services, and solutions.

4. Shape the Future of Islamic FinTech
   Participate in key discussions to shape regulatory standards and the future of Islamic finance.

What Makes GIFT Forum 2024 Unique?

The Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 sets itself apart with its multi-stakeholder approach. Unlike other conferences, GIFT Forum 2024 goes beyond speeches and theoretical discussions. It offers:

• Live product showcases the latest FinTech innovations in Islamic banking.
• Exclusive post-event workshops where attendees receive practical training from leading industry experts.
• Investor match-up sessions where startups can pitch their ideas to global investors.

By attending this event, businesses will have the chance to build partnerships, secure funding, and explore new markets for Sharia-compliant products and services.

Registration is now open for the Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024. Due to high demand and limited availability, early registration is highly recommended. Participants can register directly via the AlHuda CIBE website.

Entrance Fees: The event has a low entry fee to ensure it remains accessible to companies of all sizes. This is part of the broader goal to promote financial inclusion and support emerging startups in the Islamic FinTech ecosystem.

The Global Islamic FinTech Forum 2024 is set to be one of the most transformative events for the Islamic financial sector. From blockchain-driven smart contracts to AI-powered Islamic banking tools, the event will showcase the future of ethical finance. The presence of key regulators, ambassadors, and global experts makes this a must-attend event for anyone involved in Islamic finance.

Take the first step toward shaping the future of Islamic finance by reserving your spot at GIFT Forum 2024. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement that’s transforming the financial world.