Kingdom of Fintech: crowdfunding shaping the future in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia

PurposeThis study aims to assess that whether Islamic real estate crowdfunding (RECF) can offer a compelling alternative investment that can attract substantial funds from traditional securities and other conventional methods or otherwise.Design/methodology/approachThe current study draws on secondary data that was published on legitimate website, Twitter and official documents. Document analysis is conducted using the statements of privacy policy, Sharia compliance, terms and conditions disclosers and the established facts. Second, to achieve in-depth knowledge, a qualitative analysis was conducted for the published interviews and presentations with Aseel CEO Majed Abalkhail on YouTube. Thematic analysis is adapted; it is among the most popular types of analyzing qualitative data.FindingsThe findings show that the Aseel platform has been successful in providing simple access to investment opportunities by minimizing the obstacles, reducing entry and exit costs, streamlining the process and widening the investor's base.Originality/valueThis paper seeks to contribute to the literature on crowdfunding, Islamic crowdfunding and RECF. Its objectives include exploring the concept of crowdfunding, its growth and various types. Furthermore, the paper aims to examine the expansion of the Islamic crowdfunding system, its current market position and a focus on the Saudi Arabian market. Lastly, the paper investigates the first RECF in Saudi Arabia, Aseel Company, which has achieved remarkable success with seven investment funds completed within its first year of establishment.