Ruya Bank Pioneers Shari’ah-Compliant Crypto Investments in Islamic Finance

In a bold and unprecedented move, UAE-based digital bank Ruya has officially become the first Islamic bank in the world to offer Shari’ah-compliant cryptocurrency investments. Customers can now buy and sell virtual assets — including Bitcoin — directly through the Ruya app, marking a turning point in the intersection of Islamic finance and digital innovation.

This isn’t just a tech upgrade. It’s a philosophical shift.

To make this vision a reality, Ruya partnered with Fuze, a leading virtual asset infrastructure company licensed in the UAE. Together, they’ve created a platform that’s not only secure and user-friendly but also rigorously aligned with Islamic ethical standards. That means no speculation, no ambiguity — just transparent, long-term investment designed to build sustainable wealth.

“We’re not here to chase hype,” said Christoph Koster, CEO of Ruya. “Our mission is to offer modern financial tools that respect our faith-based values. Digital assets have enormous potential, but they must be approached with responsibility and structure — and that’s what we’re delivering.”

The timing couldn’t be more telling. According to data from mid-2024, the UAE saw a 42% year-on-year surge in virtual asset activity, with over $30 billion flowing into the country’s crypto ecosystem. It’s a growth rate that far outpaces the broader region and signals rising interest — not just among tech-savvy traders, but among everyday investors looking for trusted, regulated entry points into the space.

Ruya is doubling down on this momentum with a very different proposition than most crypto apps. It doesn’t promote quick gains or risky bets. Instead, the bank offers a curated investment journey that emphasizes clarity, education, and ethics — core principles of Islamic finance.

For those new to digital assets, Ruya is also setting up community hubs and hybrid call centers to offer one-on-one guidance. Whether it’s understanding how Bitcoin works or how Shari’ah principles are applied to virtual assets, the support is there for anyone who wants to learn before they leap.

By integrating virtual asset investing into its Shari’ah-compliant framework, Ruya isn’t just breaking new ground — it’s inviting the broader Muslim world to take part in a digital future without compromising their values.