Abdulkarim Zrik is a visionary leader and the Co-Founder & CTO of CASHIN, a pioneering fintech company based in Saudi Arabia. With a passion for innovation and technology, Abdulkarim has been instrumental in driving CASHIN’s success in the digital payments and point-of-sale solutions space. His expertise in leveraging big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning has positioned CASHIN as a leader in the fintech industry. Abdulkarim’s commitment to tackling real-world industry challenges and his active participation in global fintech discussions underscore his dedication to advancing the financial technology landscape.
Early Start
Abdulkarim discovered his fascination with technology early in life. His journey began at the age of 10 when he first interacted with computers in 1993, experimenting with batch scripting and QBasic. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion for software development, leading him to create his first application in 1997 using Visual Basic. These formative experiences laid the foundation for an inspiring career.
Eager to deepen his expertise, Abdulkarim pursued a degree in Computer Engineering at Yarmouk University in Jordan in 2001. During his studies, he merged software and hardware innovation to develop a groundbreaking project—a wireless remote-controlled car driven by computer-based image processing. This project, capable of edge detection and path learning, showcased Abdulkarim’s ability to blend cutting-edge technology with practical applications. The project earned top honours at the university, gaining recognition from the King Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau (KADDB) and the Ministry of Industry.
After graduating in 2006 with distinction, Abdulkarim joined “Professional Solutions,” a Saudi Arabian company and reseller for Radiant POS Systems. Here, he played a pivotal role in developing the Specialized Delivery Management (SDM) system, a unified call-centre solution fully integrated with in-store POS systems. This innovation revolutionized the food and beverage industry, allowing major franchises like Pizza Hut, Burger King, Kudu, Herfy, and others to streamline operations. SDM quickly gained international acclaim, setting the stage for Radiant Systems’ acquisition by NCR in 2011.
In 2014, Abdulkarim joined the startup T2, as R&D Director and part of its founding team. At T2, he led the development of several products starting with “RiCH,” a high-performance enterprise communication platform managing over 18 billion annual transactions across SMS, calls, fax, and emails. Then “Ole5” developed to become one of the largest corresponding systems for Government and large-scale entities to manage. During this time, I also explored my passion for electronics and IoT, developing innovative projects like attendance systems using beacon technology “Availo”, in addition to some experiments such as home drones and robotic systems showcased at Gitex 2015.
During this time, Abdulkarim also explored his passion for electronics and IoT, developing innovative projects, such as autonomous drones and smart devices, including a robotic “Kicker” and “Goalkeeper,” showcased at Gitex in 2015. These projects reflected his enduring passion for electronics and cutting-edge technology.
Recognizing the importance of bridging technical innovation with business acumen, Abdulkarim pursued an Executive MBA at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), graduating with honours in 2021. This milestone prepared him to tackle greater challenges in the world of
entrepreneurship.
Establishing CASHIN
In October 2021, Abdulkarim co-founded CASHIN with Omar Alrammah and Obay Almadi, a visionary FinTech company based in Saudi Arabia. CASHIN’s mission is to empower businesses through innovative solutions tailored to the retail, food, and beverage industries. Within two years, CASHIN achieved remarkable success, supporting over 20,000 merchants and revolutionizing business operations with agile and intuitive point-of-sale (POS) systems.
The inspiration for CASHIN was born from a vision to address critical inefficiencies in traditional operations, particularly in sectors like gas stations, which lacked cohesive management systems. Recognizing the need for automation and fintech integration, the trio launched CASHIN with a mission to revolutionize how gas stations operate.
Automation Solutions
CASHIN is a pioneering Saudi tech company focused on integrating fintech and automation solutions to transform business efficiency in gas stations. As a Co-founder and CTO, Abdulkarim’s role is to steer the technological innovation that underpins our solutions, ensuring they remain agile, intelligent, and customer-centric.
CASHIN’s ambitions extended further as it became the first Saudi company to pioneer Petrol Tech solutions with FinTech integration. Under the banner “Tank to Bank,” CASHIN introduced an advanced platform to manage gas stations comprehensively. The system streamlines station operations, including fuel sales, convenience stores, and ancillary services, positioning CASHIN as a leader in this emerging sector.
The company’s rapid growth is fueled by its commitment to innovation. By leveraging big data, business intelligence (BI), and artificial intelligence (AI), CASHIN empowers clients with deep analytics, actionable insights, and predictive recommendations. Localized AI models and real-time data analysis ensure the company stays ahead of the curve, offering its clients tools for smarter decision-making and improved operational efficiency.
Driving Innovation
CASHIN’s strategic vision is to lead the digital transformation of gas stations in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East, positioning ourselves as the go-to provider for PetroTech and fintech solutions. It aims to redefine industry standards by integrating automation with cutting-edge technologies.
Innovation at CASHIN is driven through a multi-pronged approach:
1. Advanced PetroTech Solutions: CASHIN is pioneering comprehensive gas station management systems that integrate all operational aspects, from fuel pumps to service shops, creating a seamless network powered by automation.
2. Localization: Its solutions are tailored to Saudi Arabia’s unique market needs, ensuring cultural and operational relevance.
3. AI-Driven Enhancements: Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, it provides actionable insights, predictive analytics, and enhanced customer engagement.
4. Sustainability: Optimizing operations contribute to reducing waste and aligning with ESG goals, which are cornerstones of future-ready businesses.
Leveraging New Age Technologies
CASHIN is deeply committed to harnessing the power of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) to deliver cutting-edge services to its clients. These technologies enable it to provide insights and solutions that are not only efficient but also predictive and transformative.
· Big Data Analytics: CASHIN processes vast amounts of transactional and operational data from its clients. By aggregating and analyzing this data, it offers valuable insights into consumer behaviour, sales trends, and operational efficiency. This empowers the clients to make informed decisions, optimize their operations, and enhance profitability.
· Artificial Intelligence: CASHIN employs local AI models, such as large language models (LLMs) and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems, to offer advanced analytics and intelligent automation. These tools help its clients uncover hidden opportunities, improve customer engagement, and identify risks before they escalate.
· Machine Learning: Its ML algorithms are integrated into various aspects of its platform, including fraud detection, inventory optimization, and personalized customer recommendations. By continuously learning from data, these systems evolve to provide increasingly accurate and effective solutions over time.
“CASHIN not only enhances operational efficiency but also delivers unmatched value to our clients, positioning them for success in a data-driven world. Our commitment to innovation ensures that our clients are always equipped with the tools they need to stay competitive and thrive in their respective industries,” assures Abdulkarim.
Prioritizing Customers
Customer satisfaction drives every aspect of CASHIN’s operations. It believes in creating value through customer-centric strategies, including:
· Co-creation: Actively involving clients in the design and development of its solutions to ensure they address real-world challenges.
· Seamless Support: Offering 24/7 support services ensures that the clients can always rely on team CASHIN.
· Flexibility and Scalability: From small businesses to large enterprises, its solutions adapt to diverse operational needs, allowing customers to scale with ease.
· Proactive Improvements: By integrating customer feedback with real-time data analysis, CASHIN stays ahead of potential issues, ensuring clients experience consistent value.
CASHIN is committed to turning customers into long-term partners by empowering them with tools and insights that guarantee their success.
Navigating Adversities
The FinTech industry is dynamic and full of challenges, many of which have shaped CASHIN’s journey. Some of the biggest challenges include:
· Regulatory Compliance: Navigating complex and evolving regulatory frameworks in the financial sector can be daunting. CASHIN overcame this by building strong relationships with regulators, ensuring full compliance, and embedding flexibility into its systems to adapt to new requirements.
· Technological Adoption: Convincing traditional businesses to adopt digital solutions requires education and trust-building. It addressed this by demonstrating the tangible benefits of its solutions through pilot programs and detailed ROI analyses.
· Security and Data Privacy: Protecting customer data and maintaining system integrity is paramount in FinTech. CASHIN invested heavily in advanced cybersecurity measures and followed strict protocols to safeguard client information.
· Competition and Market Saturation: The FinTech space is highly competitive. CASHIN differentiated itself by focusing on innovation, agility, and customer-centric solutions tailored to local market needs.
“Every challenge has been an opportunity for growth, pushing us to innovate and refine our approach,” says Abdulkarim.
Trends and Opportunities in the Industry
Several key trends are transforming the FinTech industry:
· AI and Machine Learning: The integration of AI into financial operations is creating smarter, more efficient systems. CASHIN is actively leveraging local LLMs and advanced machine learning models to offer predictive analytics and personalized services.
· Embedded Finance: Businesses increasingly seek financial services embedded within their operations. Our solutions, such as POS integrations and Petrol Tech platforms, align with this trend by seamlessly combining financial and operational workflows.
· Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Blockchain and cryptocurrency are reshaping traditional finance. While still emerging, CASHIN is exploring how to integrate decentralized solutions into its offerings to provide more flexibility and transparency.
· Sustainability and ESG Initiatives: Financial solutions that support sustainability and environmental goals are becoming essential. CASHIN’s systems are designed to optimize operations, reducing waste and promoting energy-efficient practices.
The fintech and automation sectors are brimming with opportunities:
1. Digital Transformation in Gas Stations: The untapped potential in automating gas station operations presents a significant growth avenue, and CASHIN is already leading the charge with our PetroTech solutions.
2. Emerging Markets: Many regions in the Middle East still lack comprehensive fintech and automation solutions, providing fertile ground for expansion.
3. IoT Integration: The rise of connected devices offers the opportunity to create fully automated and intelligent operational ecosystems for businesses.
4. Sustainability: Fintech solutions that align with ESG goals are becoming a priority. CASHIN’s systems are built to optimize energy use and operational efficiency, meeting these demands.
Through strategic investments in technology and partnerships, CASHIN is well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities.
Keeping up with the Dynamic Industry
Keeping pace with the rapidly evolving fintech landscape requires constant learning and adaptation. Abdulkarim adopts a comprehensive approach:
1. Active Networking: Engaging with industry experts, participating in fintech forums, and attending technology expos helps him stay updated on emerging trends.
2. Continuous Learning: He pursues advanced training in AI, automation, and business management to align his skills with industry needs.
3. Team Empowerment: Encouraging a culture of innovation within CASHIN ensures that the team collectively stays at the forefront of technological advancements.
4. Research and Development: Investing in R&D enables CASHIN to anticipate changes and pioneer solutions that set benchmarks for the industry.
This proactive approach ensures that CASHIN not only adapts to industry changes but also plays a pivotal role in shaping its future.
Goals Ahead
Over the next five years, CASHIN’s goals include:
1. Market Leadership: Establishing itself as the undisputed leader in PetroTech solutions across the GCC and broader MENA region.
2. Technological Innovation: Continuously enhancing its AI-driven, IoT-integrated solutions to provide unmatched value.
3. Sustainable Practices: Becoming a champion of ESG goals by embedding sustainability into every product and process.
To achieve these ambitions, Abdulkarim and his core team are:
· Scaling Operations: Expanding the team and resources to support rapid growth.
· Building Alliances: Partnering with strategic players in the fintech and gas station sectors.
· Investing in Innovation: Prioritizing R&D to maintain a competitive edge.
The Guiding Words
One quote that has always guided Abdulkarim is:
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
“This philosophy inspires me to take ownership of challenges and turn vision into reality, both in my personal growth and in the growth of CASHIN,” he concludes.
“Our slogan, ‘Tank to Bank,’ captures our ambition to seamlessly bridge operational workflows with financial technologies.”
“By streamlining fuel management, sales, and payment systems into a unified platform, we enable businesses to make data-driven decisions, optimize operations, and enhance profitability.”