The integration stems from a partnership formed in 2023 between O Gold, recognised as the country’s first Emirati app for fractional ownership of precious metals, and Botim, Astra Tech’s flagship AI-driven communication and financial services platform. Users now have seamless access to gold investment options through the ‘Invest’ section of the app.
The offering includes O Gold’s Gold Earning Programme, which yields around 3 per cent annually in gold grams—aligned with global leasing benchmarks reported near 3.25 per cent in London markets. The move reflects both cultural resonance and growing economic interest in gold across the region. Ahmed Mourad, Chief Operating Officer at Astra Tech | Botim, emphasised that gold’s enduring historical and economic value in the region continues to drive demand, and that this initiative lowers barriers to participation, making investment “simple and secure” for a wider audience.
Since its inception, O Gold has amassed a user base exceeding 100,000—a clear signal of appetite for accessible digital gold solutions. The app recently obtained Shariah‑compliance certification from the Centre of Islamic Banking and Economics, underscoring its credibility in catering to investors seeking ethical and asset‑backed instruments.
O Gold’s founder, Bandar Alothman, described the collaboration as transformative. By tapping into Botim’s integrated payment infrastructure and its extensive user base, O Gold can extend its offerings to a far broader audience, positioning gold investment as both accessible and intuitive for everyday users.
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