LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK OF WAQF IN SAUDI ARABIA: CHALLENGES AND ALIGNMENT WITH VISION 2030
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37231/mjis.2025.9.2.305Abstract
Waqf is a central institution in Islamic socio-economic life, historically functioning as a mechanism for wealth redistribution, community welfare, and sustainable development. In Saudi Arabia, waqf has deep historical and religious roots, particularly in supporting the Two Holy Mosques and public services. However, despite recent reforms, the waqf sector continues to face structural weaknesses that limit its effectiveness. This paper examines the legal and institutional framework of waqf in Saudi Arabia, focusing on its jurisprudential foundations, statutory reforms, and organisational structures. Using a doctrinal and comparative approach, the study highlights persistent challenges such as mismanagement of assets, legal ambiguities, weak trustee capacity, and declining donor trust. It further evaluates reforms introduced under Vision 2030 and compares them with international best practices from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Turkey. The findings suggest that while Vision 2030 provides a unique opportunity to revitalise the waqf sector, more comprehensive governance reforms and alignment with AAOIFI standards are required to enhance transparency, accountability, and public confidence. The study contributes to Islamic studies and public policy by offering recommendations for strengthening waqf governance and ensuring its role as a driver of sustainable socio-economic development in Saudi Arabia.
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