Islamic Finance

IFC has responded to the increasing demand for Sharia compliant products in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and has engaged in Islamic finance transactions in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. In the mid 1990’s, IFC first became involved in Islamic financing when it financed modarab entities engaged in leasing in Pakistan.

The ability to offer Islamic products in the MENA region has improved IFC’s visibility as an innovative multilateral institution providing product offerings for different segments of the client base. It is expected that the demand for Sharia compliant products will increase in other regions including East Asia, South Asia, and Central Asia and IFC is currently exploring these opportunities. In addition, IFC’s is working on developing documentation designed to be acceptable to Islamic banks.

For more information on IFC’s Microfinance Investment and Advisory Services, contact:

Khaleel Ahmed | Chief Investment Officer | Email: KAhmed@ifc.org