BAB and The Business Year Sign Strategic MoU for Bahrain Financial Sector Special Report
November 9, 2025
19th October 2025- The Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB) successfully concluded its Annual Bahraini Banks Reception in Washington, D.C., held in conjunction with the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank.
The prestigious event took place in the presence of His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, and His Excellency Mr. Khalid Humaidan, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB).
The ceremony was organized under the Platinum Sponsorship of the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait (BBK), Al Salam Bank, and Kuwait Finance House, with Gold Sponsorship from Bank ABC, Gulf International Bank (GIB), and GFH Financial Group. The event also received support from Gulf Air, the exclusive airline partner.
The reception was attended by prominent regional and international figures from the public and private financial sectors, including central bank governors and senior officials from major financial institutions. It served as a significant platform within the broader framework of the annual high-level meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, reinforcing Bahrain’s leadership in the financial and banking sector and strengthening its global presence in the international economic arena.
Mr. Yaser Alsharifi, Chairman of the Bahrain Association of Banks, expressed his deep appreciation for the participation and support of His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, and His Excellency Mr. Khalid Humaidan, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), noting that the event provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue and knowledge exchange between Bahraini banking leaders and their international counterparts.
Mr. Alsharifi emphasized that organizing such events is an integral part of BAB’s ongoing efforts to reinforce the global presence of Bahrain’s banking sector, expand avenues for collaboration, and cultivate strategic partnerships with international financial institutions. Appreciation was also extended to all sponsors and partners whose valuable contributions were instrumental in ensuring the event’s success and distinguished execution.
“The Bahraini financial and banking sector continues to stand as a source of national pride, distinguished by its dynamic, forward-looking, and innovative environment that adapts seamlessly to global financial transformations,” Mr. Alsharifi stated. “The strong participation of Bahraini banks in major international events is a testament to their depth of expertise, operational excellence, and commitment to strengthening collaboration with global counterparts. ensuring the continued leadership and competitiveness that have long defined Bahrain’s financial landscape.”
Mrs. Zeeba Askar, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Association of Banks, stated, "The event showcased Bahrain’s pioneering experience in building an advanced and forward-looking banking environment. It also provided a significant opportunity to present the latest developments within the Bahraini financial and banking sector, highlight ongoing innovation and digital transformation initiatives, and shed light on the promising investment opportunities that position Bahrain as a dynamic financial hub connecting GCC and regional markets.”
Mrs. Askar extended her sincere gratitude and appreciation to His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy, and His Excellency Mr. Khalid Humaidan, Governor of the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB), for their esteemed presence and continuous support, and expressed her thanks to all sponsors and partners whose valuable contributions played a key role in the success of the event and in showcasing the distinguished image of Bahrain’s financial and banking sector on the international stage.
