What is the ruling on subscribing to Saudi Aramco shares?

A ruling on a specific company's stock cannot be made without a complete understanding of its activities and funding. It is preferable to consult scholars in the country where the company is located. Purchasing or subscribing to shares is permissible under two conditions: that the company's activity is permissible, and that the company does not place a portion of shareholders' funds in interest-based banks or borrow with interest.

If the company's activity is permissible but it deals with interest, it is considered a mixed company, and scholars have differed on its ruling: - One group has ruled that investing in companies that deal with interest is absolutely forbidden. This is the opinion of the Islamic Fiqh Academy of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Muslim World League, and a number of Sharia (definition) boards. - Another group has ruled that it is permissible to invest in them with specific conditions, provided that the interest portion is disposed of. This is the opinion of some Sharia boards, such as Al-Rajhi and Dallah Al-Baraka.

It is recommended for a Muslim to avoid doubtful matters and to take the more cautious approach. Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen issued a fatwa (definition) stating that piety dictates refraining from investing in companies where there is a strong suspicion of interest in their dealings. If one becomes involved, it is obligatory to dispose of the interest amount by spending it on charitable deeds.