Saudi Hollandi Bank recently organized a number of seminars and forums focused on Islamic banking. The country-wide events were titled "Islamic banking from a contemporary perspective".
They brought together customers, Shariah banking experts, Islamic scholars and the bank's management. The events showcased the latest and most innovative Shariah-compliant banking products and services.
At the events, held in both Jeddah and Riyadh, Saudi Hollandi Bank customers were shown how today's Islamic banking portfolio of services can support their business growth and expansion.
The debate also centered on the increasing importance of Islamic financing globally and how this could support Saudi-based businesses.
A third event, to be hosted in Alkhobar, is currently being planned for customers based in the Eastern Region.
Customers who attended the forums shared their own thoughts and experiences of Shariah-compliant services with Saudi Hollandi Bank's Shariah Advisory Board. Discussion focused on how Saudi-based banks such as Saudi Hollandi Bank should look to take the lead in terms of promoting Islamic banking throughout the banking industry and how both the banks and companies should collaborate more to develop products that meet the needs of today's businesses.
Abdullah bin Suleiman Al-Manea, head of Saudi Hollandi Bank's Shariah advisory board, led the debate on Sharia banking's worldwide growth and global appeal and recent product innovations.
Al-Manea said: "The vision for Shariah banking, and Shariah-compliant services is seeking to meet the needs of today's businesses" and the purpose of these forums is to introduce such innovative solutions.
Saudi Hollandi Bank Managing Director Bernd van Linder stressed the importance that the bank places on effectively communicating with customers through such events.
© Arab News 2011
