Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) has outlined the role of artificial intelligence, financial innovation and greater market connectivity in the future of Islamic finance. The bank participated as an official co-host of the Future Islamic Finance Forum, held during the inaugural Dubai Future Finance Week 2026.
Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), the UAE’s largest Islamic bank, participated in the Future Islamic Finance Forum in Dubai, bringing together banking executives, policymakers and financial experts to discuss the industry’s growth, technological development and international expansion.
Held as part of Dubai Future Finance Week 2026, the forum focused on Islamic capital markets, sustainable finance, financial technology and the UAE’s position as an international hub for Shariah-compliant financial services.
Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO of DIB, joined a fireside discussion examining the future of Islamic banking and the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and digital transformation. He emphasized the need for greater standardization across markets, improved financial connectivity and a stronger focus on customer relationships as banking services become increasingly digital.
“The more advanced our technology becomes, the more important it is to humanise our thinking, strengthen relationships and build trust,” said Chilwan.
The discussions also explored how Islamic financial institutions can expand beyond their traditional markets by developing more accessible and competitive financial products while maintaining Shariah compliance.
Ali Ahmad, Chief of Investment Banking at DIB, participated in discussions on emerging trends in Islamic capital markets, including innovation and new opportunities for investors and issuers.
Khurram Syed, Head of Products, Commercial Banking at DIB, contributed to a session examining the UAE’s position as a global Islamic finance hub and the role of Shariah-compliant banking in supporting businesses, attracting investment and strengthening international financial connections.
Sustainable finance was another focus of the event. DIB organized a dedicated roundtable chaired by Mian Muhammed Nazir, Senior Vice President and Group Head of Internal Sharia Control, exploring how Shariah principles can support responsible investment and long-term environmental and economic priorities.
Established in 1975, Dubai Islamic Bank was the world’s first full-service Islamic bank. Its participation in the forum reflects its continued involvement in discussions on financial innovation, sustainability and the international development of Islamic banking.
The forum also highlighted the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its financial services ecosystem through regulatory development, technology adoption and collaboration between financial institutions and industry stakeholders.
Source: Dubai Islamic Bank
