From classroom to career: Umaima Mujahid’s path in Islamic Finance

Umaima Mujahid, who completed her MSc in Islamic Finance in 2024, exemplifies how academic experiences at Al-Maktoum College can prepare students for diverse opportunities in the global finance sector.

Choosing Dundee for Academic Excellence

Originally from Bahrain and India, Umaima chose Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education and the University of Dundee School of Business for its unique blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity. “The MSc programme offered was perfectly aligned with my academic and career goals, particularly in the areas of Islamic Banking, Finance, and International Business,” she explains. “I was drawn to the opportunity to gain a truly global perspective through the course content, which encourages critical thinking and engagement with both Western and Islamic financial systems.”

The location of Dundee also played a significant role in her decision. “The location in Dundee was ideal—safe, welcoming, and well-connected, making it a great place to live and study,” Umaima adds.

Learning Across Cultures and Disciplines

Throughout her MSc, Umaima engaged with peers from a variety of cultural backgrounds and studied under the guidance of experienced faculty members. “One of the most enriching aspects of my experience was the exposure to a cross-cultural learning environment,” she reflects. “Engaging with peers from different backgrounds and learning under the guidance of a highly knowledgeable and supportive faculty gave me invaluable insights—both academic and personal—that I will carry forward into my career and life.”

Building Confidence and Career-Ready Skills

Umaima’s studies significantly enhanced her confidence and professional skills. “I became more vocally expressive and comfortable presenting my ideas—skills that I’ve relied on heavily during my internship at IFAAS, where I’ve delivered numerous presentations on real-world Islamic finance topics to both internal teams and external stakeholders,” she says.

The programme also provided a strong technical foundation. “The use of real-world analogies and case studies helped me grasp complex concepts with clarity and relevance, making it easier to apply them in professional settings,” Umaima explains.

From Graduation to Professional Experience

After completing her MSc in Islamic Banking, Finance, and International Business, Umaima began working at Al-Maktoum College itself as a Receptionist and Financial Assistant, supporting the finance team with reconciliations, processing payments, and maintaining student records. Alongside this, she undertook an internship with Islamic Finance Advisory & Assurance Services (IFAAS), focusing on benchmarking Islamic capital markets and delivering professional presentations.

“These experiences enabled me to apply my academic knowledge in practical settings while continuing to grow professionally. This has further encouraged me to pursue AAT certification, demonstrating my commitment to developing technical knowledge and growing within the finance profession,” she shares.

A Dynamic Role in Islamic Finance

Currently interning at IFAAS, Umaima’s typical day involves reviewing contracts for Shariah compliance, conducting audits, and developing training materials. “This combination of technical review and collaborative work keeps my days varied and engaging,” she says. “What I enjoy most is the opportunity to apply and deepen my knowledge of finance in a practical environment while working with a diverse team.”

Advice for Current Students

Umaima encourages current students to fully embrace every aspect of university life. “Make the most of your time as a student—it goes by faster than you think. Take full advantage of the knowledge and experience your professors offer; their insights can really shape your understanding of the subject,” she advises.

She also highlights the importance of proactive planning and balance. “Set clear goals for both your academic progress and career development. Make time for networking, internships, or skill-building activities, but also ensure you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Stay adaptable and open-minded; university is a unique opportunity to explore different interests and build a strong foundation.”

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on her experience, Umaima shares how her degree has shaped her future goals. “My degree has been instrumental in shaping my long-term career goals by providing me with a solid foundation in finance and international business, especially within the context of Islamic finance. It has sparked my interest in further professional development, leading me to pursue certifications such as AAT and CISI,” she says.

Beyond her professional growth, Umaima reflects on the personal impact of her time in Dundee. “Moving to the UK was a transformative point in my life. Choosing Dundee as my destination was one of the best decisions I have made—the locals have been welcoming, and the rich cultural diversity here has given me the chance to learn so much from people all around the world.”

We are proud to celebrate Umaima Mujahid’s achievements and look forward to following her continued success in the growing field of Islamic finance.