BankIslami announced on Thursday a significant upgrade to its digital Islamic banking platform, “aik”, integrating Raast QR payment capabilities for merchants and expanding the application to include a comprehensive suite of religious lifestyle features.
The financial institution stated that the updated platform introduces enhanced system capabilities and new tools aimed at improving user accessibility. The upgrade allows individuals to instantly open both current and saving (Bachat) accounts via their smartphones, a move intended to promote financial inclusion across Pakistan.
In support of the “Go Cashless” strategy promoted by the State Bank of Pakistan and the government, the “aik” mobile application now facilitates Raast QR payments. This feature provides Shariah-compliant digital payment options for micro and small merchants (SMEs).
A notable addition to the platform is the “aik Deen” module, which transforms the application into a multifaceted Islamic lifestyle tool. New functionalities include Azaan alerts, a digital Quran, an Islamic calendar, a Qibla compass, notifications for Hadith and Ayat, and live broadcasts from Makkah and Madinah.
The platform also incorporates contemporary digital conveniences such as options for splitting bills, sending monetary gifts, and participating in referral and invite-and-earn programs.
“As digital adoption accelerates, we continue to innovate with purpose,” said Ashfaque Ahmed, Chief Officer of aik. “This upgrade positions aik as more than a banking app, it is a lifestyle companion for customers seeking a Shariah-compliant way of life.”
Rizwan Ata, President and CEO of BankIslami, commented on the institution”s core objective. “At BankIslami, we believe that a society free from Riba can only be achieved when Islamic banking is effortless, accessible, and trusted by all,” he stated, adding that the strengthened digital platform is a “meaningful step toward our mission of “Saving Humanity from Riba”.”
According to the institution, the “aik” platform is central to its strategy of combining modern technology with Islamic principles to provide accessible, Riba-free financial solutions.