Established on 1-Oct-15 at IBA. CEIF aims to provide a platform for discovery, enhancement and dissemination of knowledge in the field of Islamic Finance.
Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance was established at IBA with the objective of providing a platform for discovery, enhancement and dissemination of knowledge in the field of Islamic Finance. It aims to be a world class Centre which through education and research, carries on the IBA’s legacy of thought leadership in the Islamic Finance industry. Globally, Islamic Banking assets have witnesse
d a CAGR of 17% over a period of last 5 years exceeding USD 778 bn in 2014. In Pakistan, the Islamic Banking assets growing at the CAGR of 30% at present are at 12% of the total banking assets, expected to exceed 15% by 2020. This exponential growth of the industry has led to the vacuum of trained human resource at all levels. A wider array of products which are distinctively Shari’ah Compliant are also the need of the hour which would lead the industry to clearly differentiate itself in the market. CEIF has been established to meet this need for greater research and training. CEIF, based at IBA’s City Campus, at 6th Floor of Aman Towers, will offer Short courses, Executive training programs, Degree programs and later on Phd pograms as well. In this regard, it is finalizing an MOU with Malaysia based University: INCEIF. In line with its aim to provide demand driven training, IBA has entered into a strategic partnership with Meezan Bank Ltd. to establish CEIF. The Board of Management of the Centre includes CEOs of major market players and regulators with Dr. Ishrat Husain as the Chairman. This strong linkage with the industry will enable the Centre to achieve its key objectives, which include:
To provide trained human resource to the industry to take it to the next level of maturity
To conduct quality research and document case studies for enhancing and disseminating knowledge. To be a platform for debate, discussion and discourse on current issues and best practices around the globe. It is actively negotiating with various multilateral institutions to assure quality and best practices in this field. To provide a network of global outreach. In this regards, an International Lecture Series has been launched where various leaders of the industry from around the globe will be invited regularly for training sessions to bridge the knowledge gap. To advance theory of Islamic Economics and Finance and its role in the society
To establish a data centre with best local and international resources. CEIF was established on October 1st, 2015 with the help by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) financed through a program by DIFD, UK. Board of Management, CEIF:
The Founding members of Board of Management (BoM) of Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance include:
Dr. Ishrat Hussain, Chairman CEIF,
Mr. Irfan Siddiqui, CEO Meezan Bank Ltd.,
Mr. Hassan Bilgrami, CEO BankIslami Ltd.,
Mr. Shafqaat Ahmed, CEO Al Barakah Bank Ltd.,
Mr. Junaid Ahmed, CEO Dubai Islamic Bank,
Dr. Imran Usmani, Shari’ah Advsior, Meezan Bank Ltd.,
Mr. Samar Hasnain, Executive Director, Development Finance Group, SBP and
Mr. Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, Founding Director of CEIF.
30/04/2026
Money habits start early—why not make learning about money fun?
The Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance (CEIF), IBA, is excited to launch MONEY 101 – The Financial Literacy Summer Camp for Kids (Ages 7–12) at IBA City Campus, Garden, Karachi!
Special Highlight: Participants will also enjoy an educational visit to the SBP Museum and the Head Office of an Islamic Bank, bringing real-world banking experience to life!
Learning Methodology: On-campus, activity-based learning designed to make financial concepts simple and enjoyable
Early Bird Discount Applicable
Fee: PKR 15,000
Dates: July 06–09, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (PKT)
📍 Venue: IBA City Campus, Garden, Karachi
Last Date to Register: June 30, 2026
Register now by scanning the QR code on the brochure or clicking the link below!
The 2nd batch of the Diploma in Takaful successfully commenced on Saturday, April 25, 2026, with an engaging orientation session followed by the first class.
Offered as a weekend program, this cohort brings together 48 participants from leading insurance companies and banks. The initiative is a collaboration between the Center for Excellence in Islamic Finance (IBA CEIF), IBA Karachi, and the Pakistan Insurance Institute (PII), creating a strong platform for industry-focused learning.
The program was formally inaugurated by Dr. Irum Saba, Director – CEIF, IBA Karachi, who also conducted the first session. She was joined by Executive Director Mr. Ather Rahat Siddiqui ACII , CPCU (ACII, CPCU) and CEO Mr. Shahzad Lodhi, along with their team, representing our valued partner, and setting an insightful and impactful tone for the journey ahead.
We are delighted to welcome a dynamic group of professionals embarking on this learning journey in Takaful and look forward to a highly enriching and impactful experience.
24/04/2026
Empowering Connections. Inspiring Change🌿
Please nominate women from your organisation for this event
Join us at Women in Islamic Finance – Networking Hi-Tea for an evening of meaningful conversations, collaboration, and growth.
We bring together inspiring women shaping the future of Islamic finance — and warmly welcome men who support and champion women’s success to be part of this dialogue.
Professionals from Islamic Banking, Takaful, Asset Management, Regulatory Bodies, Academia & emerging talent are encouraged to attend.
May 15, 2026 | 4:00 – 6:00 PM
IBA Karachi, City Campus
📩 Registered participants will receive a formal invitation.
Advancing expertise in Islamic finance at the “Finance for Islamic Finance Professionals” program held on April 23, 2026.
Hosted by IBA-CEIF, the session delivered a focused and practical learning experience, led by Dr. Hilal Butt. Participants gained valuable insights into key financial principles, industry practices, and the evolving landscape of Islamic finance.
The program brought together professionals from leading banks and financial institutions, including Bank AL Habib Limited , Dubai Islamic Bank Pakistan , Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited, Al Baraka Bank Pakistan Ltd., Al-Sadiq Institute of Islamic Banking, Finance & Takaful , Salam Takaful Insurance and Shariah scholars—fostering a rich environment of knowledge sharing and professional networking.
15/04/2026
Unlock the fundamentals of Islamic Finance with expert-led insights at the IBA Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance.
From core principles to practical applications, this Islamic Finance Toolkit is designed to equip bankers, professionals, students, academicians and entrepreneurs with real-world knowledge.
IBA CEIF in collaboration with Meezan Bank has recently initiated it's Batch 4 of Meezan Justuju – A Quest for Islamic Finance Leaders!
The orientation session, featured addresses from Mr. Shayan Baig - Head Shariah Compliance, Meezan Bank and Mr. Zia Khalid - Senior Program Manager, IBA CEIF who shared valuable insights with the students. The 42-hour training is being conducted by M***i Zubair Ahmed, focusing on fundamentals of Islamic finance, deposit and asset side of Islamic banking including all the modes of financing.
The program aims to equip fresh graduates for careers in Islamic banking.
08/04/2026
Executive Learning Calendar | April – May 2026
The Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance (CEIF), IBA Karachi is pleased to announce its upcoming portfolio of executive learning programs—designed to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application in the Islamic finance industry.
From core concepts to boardroom-ready insights, our programs are curated for professionals seeking practical, industry-relevant expertise.
📌 Upcoming Programs:
• Finance for Islamic Finance Professionals (Apr 23) – 1 Day | 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
Trainer: Dr. Hilal Anwar Butt
Register: https://forms.gle/X7vQCpvSZ1CCVF2CA
• Islamic Finance Toolkit (Apr 29–30) – 2 Days | Full Day
Program Director: Dr. Irum Saba
Trainers: M***i Najeeb Khan, M***i Irshad Ahmed Aijaz, M***i Bilal Qazi.
Register: https://forms.gle/CGqXw87BXgjcn12t9
• Islamic Finance Product Development & Facility Documentation (May 02) – 10 Weeks | Saturdays
Trainer: M***i Khawaja Noor ul Hassan
Register: https://forms.gle/PvutrxLDGvqJA66f8
• ACSS – Advanced Certificate in AAOIFI Shariah Standards (May 09) – 6 Months | Weekends
Trainer: Pool of Trainers
Mode: Hybrid (Physical attendance is mandatory for Karachi based participants while Online classes for out of city students only.)
Register: https://forms.gle/zBvevVuNYdDwByQb6
• Train the Trainer – 4 Days (June)
Program Director: Dr. Irum Saba
Trainers: To be announced
Apply at: https://forms.gle/wyZ6jfDCusqLFg5z9
P.S: Participation by application & shortlisting only
📩 Registrations are now open! Secure your spot early as limited seats are available in high-demand sessions.
For further details contact us on: 021-38104701 Ext: 1851, 1852, 1857
Or email us at: [email protected]
Limited seats — register now and elevate your career!
07/04/2026
On World Health Day, CEIF reaffirms that health is central to both economic development and Islamic ethical frameworks. In Maqasid al-Shariah, the preservation of life (Hifz al-Nafs) is a primary objective, underscoring the importance of accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare for all.
Let us continue working towards systems that safeguard life, promote dignity, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient society.
Wellness in every step. Excellence in every endeavor. ✨
On World Health Day, we celebrate the commitment to a healthier lifestyle. At IBA, we believe that a healthy mind and body are the true catalysts for innovation.
Renew your commitment to wellness today. 🍎💪
04/04/2026
Global Recognition, National Pride.
IBA Centre for Excellence in Islamic Finance stands tall on the global stage! Ranked 9th globally by DinarStandard among the Top 30 Business Schools of the Islamic Economy 2026, this honor reflects our dedication to excellence, innovation, and is empowering the next generation of leaders worldwide.
03/04/2026
Global Recognition, National Pride.
IBA stands tall on the global stage! Ranked 9th globally by DinarStandard among the Top 30 Business Schools of the Islamic Economy 2026, this honor reflects our dedication to excellence, innovation, and is empowering the next generation of leaders worldwide.