Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain ‎Technologiesfor Shariah-Compliant Accounting: A ‎Critical Evaluation ofOpportunities, Challenges, and ‎Ethical Implications

  • Authors

    • Aysha N. AlSalih College of Business Administration, Accounting Department, ‎Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University; Riyadh, Saudi ‎Arabia
    https://doi.org/10.14419/11ag0x81

    Received date: November 30, 2025

    Accepted date: January 4, 2026

    Published date: January 22, 2026

  • Artificial Intelligence; Blockchain; Shariah-Compliant Accounting; Islamic Finance; ‎Maqasid Al-Shariah; Digital Transformation; Ethical FinTech.

  • Abstract

    Purpose This study explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ‎blockchain technologies in Shariah-compliant accounting systems, aiming to ‎enhance transparency, operational efficiency, and adherence to Islamic ethical ‎principles within the context of Islamic finance.‎

    Design/Methodology/Approach A qualitative research design was adopted, ‎utilizing thematic analysis and in-depth interviews with experts in Islamic finance, ‎Shariah governance, and fintech across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ‎countries and Southeast Asia.‎

    Findings The study finds that blockchain’s immutable ledger improves auditability ‎and institutional trust, while AI supports real-time compliance monitoring and ‎automation of complex financial processes. However, significant challenges ‎remain, including regulatory ambiguity, ethical concerns around algorithmic bias ‎and moral accountability, and infrastructural limitations within Islamic financial ‎institutions.‎

    Originality/Value This research provides a novel conceptual framework for ‎integrating AI and blockchain in Shariah-compliant accounting. It emphasizes the ‎necessity for harmonized regulatory standards, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ‎ethical oversight to ensure alignment with Maqasid Al-Shariah (objectives of ‎Islamic law).‎

    Research Limitations/Implications The study is limited to qualitative insights from ‎selected regions (GCC and Southeast Asia), which may not be fully generalized. ‎Further empirical studies are needed to validate the proposed framework and ‎explore its practical applications in different Islamic finance ecosystems.‎

    Practical Implications The findings offer actionable insights for policymakers, ‎financial institutions, and technology developers aiming to modernize Shariah-‎compliant accounting systems. The study highlights the need to align technological ‎innovation with Islamic ethical norms and regulatory frameworks‎.

     

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    AlSalih, A. N. (2026). Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain ‎Technologiesfor Shariah-Compliant Accounting: A ‎Critical Evaluation ofOpportunities, Challenges, and ‎Ethical Implications. International Journal of Accounting and Economics Studies, 13(1), 256-262. https://doi.org/10.14419/11ag0x81