Innovative Attraction Strategy for Waqf Donors: Case of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The concept of Waqf is as deep-rooted in Islam; yet is still confronted with challenges and issues in Muslim countries. Many scholars have discussed the topic of waqf and questioned why it is getting vanished in Muslim countries, while trust in the western world is succeeding progressively. This study aims to propose a framework, Innovative Attraction Waqf Donors Strategy Matrix as a sustainable means of charity in Saudi Arabia. This paper is emphasized attracting cash waqf donors and the researcher is embracing a specific donor, young donors. Young generation donors are Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha. Issues and challenges like lack of awareness of waqf, waqf management, legal, financial, and others have led waqf donors to fear and step backward in donating. This paper aims at exploring an innovative attraction strategy for waqf donors, as one of the funding sustainability instruments. Besides, this paper is based on some of the challenges facing the Waqf industry in general, and waqf donors specifically in Saudi Arabia. It concludes by suggesting a strategy to attract waqf donors and solve some of their facing issues. The paper offers a theoretical model based on Saudi Arabia's experience, to change donors' fear into attractive donation habits, therefore, nourishing waqf through sustainable funding. The study develops prior research and highlights the tentative innovative strategy of reviving waqf by attracting more donors. The study adopts a qualitative approach where research, interview, and discussion as well as primary data collection were employed. The paper suggests some relevant opinions for Saudi Awqaf Ministry and practitioner considerations.