Unit Head - Sharia Assessment & Testing

About the role

The Unit Head – Sharia Assessment & Testing will lead the Sharia compliance function across ADIB Group, ensuring that all banking activities adhere to the Higher Sharia Authority resolutions, Central Bank regulations and AAOIFI standards. The role reports to the Head of Sharia Compliance and oversees the SAT unit’s monitoring, testing and reporting processes.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute the annual Sharia Assessment and Testing plan, aligning it with internal policies, risk‑based methodology and the Governance, Risk and Control platform.
• Lead Sharia monitoring and assurance reviews, assess non‑compliance risks, and coordinate remediation with business units and operational risk functions.
• Prepare detailed reports for the Internal Sharia Supervisory Committee, other committees and senior stakeholders, and ensure timely communication of findings.
• Maintain and continuously improve the policies, procedures and methodologies of the Sharia Compliance Department and the SAT unit.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Sharia/Islamic banking; postgraduate qualification preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in Sharia‑related functions within Islamic banking, preferably in compliance or internal Sharia audit.
• Fluency in Arabic and English.
• Leadership experience with the ability to balance compliance requirements and business needs.

Required skills

• AAOIFI CSAA and/or CIPA certification (or equivalent).
• Expert knowledge of AAOIFI Sharia standards.
• Expert knowledge of Islamic banking products and operations.