Khurram Sharif

This chapter explores the luxury consumption behavior of affluent Muslim consumers within a rich Islamic country. Hofstede (1983) cultural dimensions were used to make comparisons between materialistic and relational approaches impacting Quality of Life. Islamic ideologies of Comprehensiveness, Moderation, and Necessities were utilized in evaluation of consumption behavior of rich Muslims. In addition, impact of gender, education, and income on luxury consumption behavior were analyzed to afford a view associated with thinking and actions of affluent Muslim consumers. Hence, the fundamental objective of the chapter was to present, largely through relevant literature support and observations, the Islamic and social perspectives of consumption, Quality of Life orientations and their association with consumption, key demographics likely to play an important part in shaping and practice of luxury consumption amongst affluent Muslim consumers.

Purpose This study aims to focus on how informal value transfer networks, Hawala business in particular, used social exchanges in their business dealings. More specifically, the conducted research looked into how social exchange theory was used in Hawala business relationship initiation and management. Design/methodology/approach Twenty-one depth interviews were conducted with Hawala Network members, and Hawala customers, in Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The collected qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis and NVivo 11 software. Findings The study outcome indicated that Social Exchange Theory was a principal relationship driver in Hawala Networks. Especially, trust had a pivotal role in evolvement and nurturing of Hawala Network business and social exchanges. Other relationship variables, namely, reciprocity, religious affiliation, reputation and information sharing had a significant part in relationship building as well. Results supported a prominent influence ...