What is the ruling on a company selling a car in installments with interest on the remaining amount, and what is the ruling on buying a car in installments provided that a lease contract is signed and the car is eventually owned by paying an agreed-upon amount?

It is permissible for the company to sell the car to the customer for a specified price, even if it is higher than its value; this is known as Murabaha sale. However, it is not permissible for the company to stipulate an interest or an increase in price in case of delay in payment. It is also permissible for the company to enter into an Ijarah Muntahia Bittamleek (lease ending with ownership) contract with the customer, provided there are two separate contracts (lease then sale), that the lease is actual, and that the lessor bears responsibility for the leased asset. Accordingly, it is necessary to verify that the company's contracts adhere to Sharia guidelines for Murabaha sale or Ijarah Muntahia Bittamleek. It is not permissible to engage in a prohibited transaction except out of compelling necessity, which is to be assessed proportionately.