Some Muslim businessmen are contemplating to establish a Muslim retirement village.

Answer

1) The very first step for the 'group of businessmen' is to examine their niyyat. What is the objective for their desire to establish a 'retirement village'? If the desire is anything other than thawaab and gaining the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala, then the venture will be devoid of any barkat even if it is constructed correctly according to the Shariah. Thus Ikhlaas is vital and of utmost importance.

2) If Ikhlaas is the true motivating factor, then the next step is to ensure that the project is 100% compliant with the Shariah.

3) If the project is not in strict compliance with the Shariah or it cannot be constructed to fit into the Shariah, then it must be compulsorily abandoned.

4) The entire model you have presented is in total conflict with the Shariah. The degree of its corruption does not even admit changes to attempt the acquisition of compliance with the Shariah.

5) Any project of the nature contemplated could be operated with Zakaat and Lillah funds. Allah Ta'ala has blessed these businessmen with millions and even billions. They should spend solely for the sake of Allah's Pleasure. He will grant barkat, and operational costs will be forthcoming at the juncture when required.

The need is for tawakkul on Allah Ta'ala. Work on the project should be initiated on a small manageable scale and expansion should be gradual. When Allah Ta'ala accepts a project, He will make available the means for its operation and expansion.