Amjad Hijazi, Chief Operating Officer at Siraj Finance PJSC, offers a seasoned perspective on the evolution of Islamic banking in the Middle East. With over three decades of experience across Jordan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, Hijazi has been instrumental in steering both conventional and Islamic banks through significant digital transformations and strategic innovations.
Leadership in a Transforming Landscape
Hijazi emphasizes the importance of adaptive leadership in navigating the rapidly changing financial services landscape. He advocates for a harmonious blend of traditional Islamic banking principles with modern technological advancements to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
“The future of financial services in the region will be defined by collaboration between banks and fintechs, rather than competition,” Hijazi states. He highlights the UAE’s emergence as a fintech powerhouse in the Middle East, underscoring the potential of digital-first approaches in reshaping the banking sector.
Embracing Digital Disruption
Under Hijazi’s leadership, Siraj Finance has embraced digital disruption by implementing AI-driven personal finance tools, blockchain for smart contracts, and digital onboarding processes. These initiatives aim to simplify banking services, ensuring they are safer, more inclusive, and aligned with Shariah principles.
Hijazi’s forward-thinking approach positions Siraj Finance at the forefront of Islamic banking innovation, demonstrating how traditional financial institutions can successfully integrate cutting-edge technologies to meet the evolving needs of customers.