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Verification of Compliance of Islamic Banking with Shari'a

In Islamic Finance, ‘Shariah-compliant’ refers to financial products, services, and activities adhering to Shariah (Islamic Law) principles. This means Islamic banks can utilize deposits to fund permissible economic activities, aligning with socially responsible investing.

Shariah Non-Compliance Risk (SNCR) arises when Islamic banks fail to comply with Shariah rules set by their Shariah board or regulatory bodies, posing operational risks. Shariah law is based on four key sources: the Qur’an, Sunna (Prophetic traditions), consensus of scholars, and analogy. It is guided by five objectives (Maqasid): protection of life, property, health, religion, and dignity.

Our services ensure Shariah compliance, regulatory adherence, and stakeholder trust through:
  • Shariah Audits and Advisory
  • Product Structuring, Training, and Policy Review
  • Risk Management and Dispute Resolution
  • Regulatory Compliance Support

We provide continuous monitoring to help Islamic financial institutions maintain integrity and uphold Shariah principles.

Comprehensive Legal, Compliance and Risk Management Solutions

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A. Backer Ali

Backer Ali, Senior Partner at Universal Legal Associates (UL Associates), brings over 35 years of distinguished experience in the legal, banking, and corporate sectors. His career is marked significant achievements, including a notable tenure of three decades as Group Legal Advisor and Vice President at Mashreqbank psc, where he provided strategic legal guidance and advises, managed high-stakes litigation, and led corporate governance initiatives.

A strategic legal expert, he has successfully navigated complex legal and regulatory frameworks while fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including top government officials and business leaders. His expertise in legal counsel, compliance, and corporate governance has positioned him as a trusted advisor to major corporations and institutions. He has played a critical role in structuring legal frameworks that align with evolving international regulations, particularly in banking, compliance, and consumer protection.

As an advisor in the Corporate Secretariat and Governance to the Board of Directors of Mashreqbank psc, he also spearheaded governance frameworks that ensured transparency, accountability, and compliance while facilitating informed decision-making at the highest levels.

Known for his skilled negotiation abilities, he has been instrumental in high-value transactions and strategic partnerships, ensuring favorable outcomes for clients. His keen understanding of regulatory requirements and governance structures enables these organizations to thrive while maintaining strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines.

Backer Ali’s strategic foresight and extensive legal acumen continue to drive impactful results for businesses across the region. His commitment to excellence and ability to deliver comprehensive legal solutions make him a key asset to UL Associates and the clients he serves.

Skills & Expertise:

  1. Corporate and Commercial
  2. Distributorships
  3. Franchises
  4. Governance and Compliance
  5. Joint Ventures
  6. Mergers and Acquisitions
  7. Private Equity and Venture Capital
  8. Regulatory Compliance
  9. Banking and Finance
  10. Islamic Finance
  11. Tax and Capital Markets
  12. Dispute Resolution
  13. Litigation Management
  14. Construction
  15. Energy
  16. Infrastructure and Projects
  17. Family and Personal Law
  18. Industrial, Manufacturing, and Resources
  19. Shipping, Aviation, and Transport
  20. Healthcare and Education
  21. Insurance and Risk Management
  22. International Trade and Sanctions
  23. Real Estate and Property Law
  24. Retail, Hospitality, and Leisure
  25. Employment and Labor Law
  26. Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy Law
  27. Telecommunications, Media, and Technology

Adv. Hashik T.K.

With over 27 years of experience in the UAE, Adv. Hashik Thayikandi is a legal expert specializing in commercial litigation, family law, dispute resolution, and cross-border advisory. As Senior Partner at Universal Legal Associates and Senior Legal Consultant at Abdul Rahman Al Mutawa Advocates and Legal Consultant, Dubai, he delivers tailored legal solutions across the UAE, India, and GCC.

Skills & Expertise:

  • Commercial Litigation: Handles complex disputes in construction, real estate, financial services, labor law, employee relations, and compliance for businesses and individuals.
  • Cross-Border Advisory: Ensures compliance with local and international regulations in diverse legal contexts.
  • Dispute Resolution: Skilled in arbitration, mediation, and negotiation to achieve amicable solutions.
  • Family Law: Manages personal status cases for Muslims and non-Muslims in Shari’a and Personal Status Courts, focusing on financial and sensitive issues.
  • Criminal Investigations: Assists with cases in collaboration with police and public prosecution authorities.

Adv. Hashik is known for his strong relationships with government officials and industry leaders across the UAE, GCC, and India. He collaborates with local counsel in UAE Courts, representing Indian expatriates and multinational corporations to navigate complex legal systems seamlessly.

Shahzad Ahmed A

Shahzad Ahmed is a dynamic legal professional with a Master’s Degree in Law from Birmingham University, UK. Specializing in international commercial law, financial crime, trade law, and arbitration, Shahzad brings fresh perspectives to the firm. His expertise spans corporate law, intellectual property, cyber law, and real estate, delivering strategic legal solutions. He also holds certifications in Cyber Security Virtual Experience Program, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Business and Human Rights.

Born and raised in the UAE, Shahzad’s deep understanding of local and international legal systems enables him to navigate complex legal issues effectively.

Skills & Expertise:
  • Conducts comprehensive legal research, drafting, and analysis to support cases and provide informed legal advice.
  • Skilled in contract review, regulatory compliance, and strategic client counseling across diverse legal matters.
  • Experienced in litigation support and corporate advisory services, safeguarding clients’ legal interests.

Shahzad’s professional journey includes trainee roles at Mashreqbank’s Legal Department, Clifford Chance, and other leading UAE firms, honing his skills in corporate law, banking regulations, and risk management. His adaptability and commitment to continuous learning drive his passion for achieving positive legal outcomes for clients.

Mithun Beeru

Mithun Beeru is a seasoned Business Growth Strategist and Digital Transformation Expert, serving as a key Business Consultant with Universal Legal Associates.

With deep expertise in business leadership, SME coaching, and digital strategy, Mithun supports our clients in aligning their business operations with legal and commercial best practices. He brings a strategic edge to our advisory services by helping businesses overcome operational bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and build scalable, system-driven models that drive sustainable growth.

Having worked across diverse industries, Mithun’s practical experience in enterprise-level transformation and strategic coaching complements our firm’s commitment to holistic, business-centric legal solutions. His approach enables clients not just to protect their businesses legally—but to grow them efficiently.

Mithun plays a pivotal role in empowering our SME clients to shift from reactive firefighting to proactive leadership—ensuring their businesses are not only compliant but also future-ready.

Nasir Ali Anakkot

TEAM Nasir Ali Anakkot brings over 20 years of expertise in corporate law, employment law, and litigation across the UAE, India, and the UK. A seasoned consultant, he delivers strategic counsel, ensuring compliance and facilitating business growth.

Core Competencies:
  • Corporate governance, M&A, and employment law.
  • Contract negotiation, legal audits, and regulatory compliance.
  • Cross-border transactions and joint ventures.

As a Registered Foreign Lawyer in the UK, he provides unmatched insights into international corporate law, ensuring seamless legal navigation for clients worldwide. Nasir’s experience spans leadership roles at prestigious organizations.

Hassan Kutty

Hassan Kutty brings decades of expertise in criminal, civil, corporate, and family law. With extensive experience representing clients in District Courts and High Courts, as well as the Supreme Court of India, he is known for his sharp analytical skills and commitment to securing favorable outcomes.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Skilled in criminal defense, civil and commercial disputes, and family law matters.
  • Extensive experience in managing cases related to the execution of foreign judgments, particularly UAE-India cross-border enforcement.
  • Proficient in bridging Indian and Dubai legal frameworks, providing expert cross-jurisdictional advice.
  • Strategic in crafting practical, results-oriented legal strategies addressing both immediate challenges and long-term objectives.

Kutty’s strong advocacy skills and deep understanding of cross-border legal landscapes make him a vital asset to Universal Legal Associates, ensuring clients receive tailored and effective solutions to complex legal challenges.

Yusaff TM

Yusaff TM specializes in legal matters related to the insurance industry. With over four decades of experience, including a distinguished career in Oman, he brings unparalleled expertise in insurance operations, risk management, and client relations.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Proficient in handling complex insurance-related litigations, policy structuring, risk assessment, and claims management.
  • Extensive litigation experience, representing clients in high-profile cases before the High Court and district courts.
  • Expertise in fostering business growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and building long-term client relationships.
  • Dedicated to delivering results-oriented legal solutions with a strong focus on professional integrity and client satisfaction.

Yusaff’s leadership and deep understanding of insurance law continue to reinforce the firm’s reputation for excellence, ensuring comprehensive and effective legal services for its clients.

M. Anwar Abdul Jabar

Mr. Anwar is a Senior Consultant with over 30 years of experience in Islamic Banking. He has a proven track record in setting up Islamic finance institutions, product development, and regulatory compliance, making him a trusted advisor for clients navigating Islamic finance complexities.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Extensive experience in overseeing Islamic Banking operations, particularly in designing and implementing Shariah-compliant financial contracts and structures, supporting leading institutions across the region.
  • Sixteen years at QIB, where he implemented Shariah-compliant products and services, helping establish QIB as a prominent Islamic financial institution.
  • A decade at ADIB, significantly contributing to Islamic finance growth by streamlining internal processes and enhancing product offerings.
  • Four years at ADCB Islamic Window, focusing on developing Shariah-compliant banking services and products.
  • Expertise in reviewing and improving banking processes, developing standard operating procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Practical experience in integrating automation and IT solutions, optimizing retail operations, cheque end-to-end (E2E) processes, and payments.
  • Skilled in advising on product structuring and risk management within the Islamic banking sector.

Mr. Anwar’s leadership and extensive experience across major regional banks make him an invaluable asset to the firm.

Aishwarya Agarwal

Aishwarya Agarwal brings a robust foundation in criminal and corporate law. Since beginning her legal practice in 2019, she has earned a reputation for sharp analytical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for clients.

Professional Experience:

  • Represented clients in high-profile cases before the High Court and Supreme Court of India, honing litigation skills and expertise in criminal defense and corporate disputes.
  • Extensive experience handling regulatory investigations, risk mitigation, and corporate governance.
  • Bridges international legal practices with expertise in both Indian and Dubai legal systems, ensuring cross-jurisdictional compliance and tailored advisory services.

Aishwarya’s approach combines a client-first philosophy with a pragmatic mindset, ensuring actionable legal solutions that address immediate concerns and align with long-term goals. Her strong advocacy and strategic thinking make her a valuable asset in navigating complex legal challenges.

Reya Anu Sony

Reya Anu Sony brings a robust academic background and diverse legal exposure across the UAE and India. Specializing in corporate law, family law, and international law, she contributes to ULA’s reputation for delivering client-focused legal solutions.

Skills and Expertise:
  • Proficient in UAE corporate, labor, and family law, with experience in drafting legal notices, managing case schedules, and conducting in-depth legal research.
  • Strong research capabilities in cyber laws and privacy acts, with certifications in Genomics for Law, Fundamental Privacy Acts, and Cybersecurity.
  • Gained diverse legal exposure through internships at Bilahari & Associates, N. Krishnan Kutty’s Law Chambers, and Vestralex, an online legal platform.
  • Active participant in high-stakes corporate and litigation matters, assisting in client counseling and delivering tailored legal solutions.

Reya’s dedication and expertise align seamlessly with ULA’s core values, making her an integral part of the firm’s mission to provide unparalleled legal services.