Hamad Bin Khalifa University and ALU Debut Dual MSc in Islamic Finance and Digital Banking

Arab Leadership University and Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Qatar have concluded a comprehensive dual-degree agreement to deliver a Master of Science in Islamic Finance & Digital Banking. The bilingual program prepares financial engineers and banking executives to lead the next generation of Shariah-compliant digital assets, blockchain sukuk, and algorithmic wealth management.

Students will analyze real-time financial market indices, study Islamic jurisprudence in modern financial engineering, and design smart contracts for decentralized Islamic finance (DeFi). The curriculum is jointly evaluated by leading Shariah scholars and global fintech practitioners.

"Islamic finance is expanding at double-digit rates across the MENA region and Southeast Asia, yet there is a critical shortage of professionals who understand both Shariah principles and modern blockchain cryptography," explained the Chair of Islamic Finance. "This dual qualification provides our graduates with an undeniable competitive advantage."

Both diplomas are awarded upon successful completion of 36 credit hours and an applied fintech thesis. The program is offered entirely online with flexible exam scheduling.