Kuwait, 17 May 2025

Kuwait International Bank (KIB), through its investment arm, KIB Invest, proudly announces its role as Joint Bookrunner in the successful execution of the Central Bank of Bahrain’s latest international issuance. The offering included an eight-year USD-denominated senior unsecured Sukuk, structured under Ijara and Murabaha principles, issued under the 144A/Reg S format.

The Sukuk tranche, rated B+ with a Stable outlook by both Fitch and S&P, attracted strong demand from a broad spectrum of regional and international investors. With the order book surpassing USD 4.4 billion against a targeted issuance of USD 1.75 billion, the offering achieved an impressive oversubscription of 2.5 times. Priced at a competitive profit rate of 6.25%, the Sukuk is listed on the London Stock Exchange — further cementing Bahrain’s reputation as a leading sovereign issuer in the Islamic capital markets.

Citi, First Abu Dhabi Bank, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, and National Bank of Bahrain acted as Joint Global Coordinators. Joining them as Joint Bookrunners on the Sukuk tranche were Bank ABC, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD Capital, KFH Capital, and KIB Invest.

Raed Jawad Bukhamseen, Vice Chairman and CEO of KIB, remarked:

“We are proud to once again play a role in a landmark issuance by a distinguished sovereign issuer. This continued mandate is a clear reflection of the market’s confidence in our Islamic investment capabilities and the enduring trust placed in us by both regional and global stakeholders. At KIB, we remain firmly committed to supporting the growth of capital markets through innovative, Shariah-compliant solutions that deliver long-term value with integrity.”

Jamal Hamad Al-Barrak, CEO of KIB Invest, added:

“Being selected once again for a sovereign Sukuk mandate is a strong affirmation of our expanding capabilities in the debt capital markets space. It highlights not only our ability to execute with precision, but also the strategic progress KIB Invest is making as an emerging force in Islamic finance. We are especially proud that this transaction marks the largest issuance KIB has participated in as a Joint Lead Manager — a milestone that reflects our growing presence and credibility in the market. We remain committed to supporting transactions that foster sustainable economic growth and enhance financial connectivity across the region.”

KIB Invest continues to expand its footprint in the debt capital markets, underpinned by strong market insight, disciplined execution, and a dedicated team committed to delivering tailored, Shariah-compliant financial solutions to sovereign and institutional clients across the region.