Independent review
Shariah certification with a clear evidentiary record
IHKAM reviews the structure, documents and operating model behind a proposition before determining whether formal Shariah certification is appropriate.
Our approach
Certification is the conclusion of a review
A certificate should rest on a defined scope and reliable evidence. Our process identifies what is being certified, tests the relevant materials, records any conditions or limitations and helps the institution keep the certified proposition aligned after approval.
Scope of support
What the review considers
The evidence set depends on the proposition and stage of development.
Structure
Contractual relationships, asset or service flows, payment mechanics and allocation of rights and obligations.
Documentation
Customer terms, transaction documents, policies, disclosures and other materials within the agreed scope.
Operations
System behaviour, process controls and the practical sequence through which the approved structure will operate.
Conditions
Outstanding actions, limitations and evidence required before certification or continued reliance on it.
Deliverables
Typical deliverables
- Defined certification scope and document register
- Review comments and resolution log
- Conditions-precedent checklist
- Formal Shariah certificate where the review is satisfactorily completed
- Post-certification review recommendations
Working method
Certification pathway
1. Scope
Agree precisely what product, entity, fund, platform or transaction is under review.
2. Review
Examine the structure, governing documents, customer journey and supporting evidence.
3. Resolve
Close material findings and record any conditions that must continue to be observed.
4. Certify
Issue the appropriate formal output when the review criteria have been met.
Frequently asked
Certification questions
What can be submitted for Shariah certification?
The mandate may cover a financial product, transaction, investment fund, digital platform or defined operating model. The scope must be explicit.
Is a certificate permanent?
A certificate addresses the reviewed scope and evidence at a point in time. Material changes may require further review, and ongoing compliance depends on operating the proposition as approved.
Can documents be reviewed before they are final?
Yes. Draft-stage review is often useful because findings can be resolved before execution or launch. Formal certification follows the agreed completion requirements.
IHKAM Advisors
Plan a certification review
Tell us what needs to be certified and its current stage so the scope, evidence and timeline can be defined.