24/04/2026 03:44 AST
Kuwait Finance House (KFH) has been named "Best Bank for Sustaining Communities in the Middle East" by Global Finance magazine, as part of its Sixth Annual Sustainable Finance Awards, recognizing outstanding leadership in sustainable finance worldwide. The Global Finance Sustainable Finance Awards Ceremony 2026 was held in London to honor institutions demonstrating excellence in financing initiatives that mitigate climate change, promote social inclusion, and contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future.
Winners were selected across multiple categories, including sustainability financing, community support, transparency and reporting, infrastructure development, and emerging-market sustainability funding, spanning 56 countries, territories, and districts.
Commitment to sustainable communities
Commenting on the achievement, KFH Head of Group Compliance and Governance, Meshal Alshayee, said: "We are deeply honored to receive Global Finance's award for Best Bank for Sustaining Communities in the Middle East. This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to sustainability as a core pillar of KFH's strategy and operations. We firmly believe that financial leadership carries a responsibility to nurture resilient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious communities. Through sustainable financing initiatives, impactful social development programs, and investments that support long-term prosperity, this award further inspires us to strengthen our role as a leading force in sustainable development and community empowerment."
Integration of ESG principles
Alshayee indicated that 2025 marked a milestone year for KFH's sustainability journey, achieved through the integration of sustainability into the Group's overall strategy and the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. These efforts align with Kuwait Vision 2035 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), reinforcing KFH's commitment to responsible and future-focused banking.
Sustainability and carbon footprint reporting
He added: "In 2025, KFH issued its fifth annual Sustainability Report, highlighting its progress and initiatives across environmental, social, and governance pillars. The Bank also released its third Carbon Footprint Report, providing a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact of its operations. These reports support KFH's commitment to transparency, emissions monitoring, and continuous environmental performance improvement".
World-class rankings and prestigious awards
Alshayee pointed out that building on its sustainability achievements, KFH earned the MSCI ESG "A" Rating, reflecting strong ESG practices and sustainable finance performance. The Bank was included in the FTSE4Good Index Series, further reinforcing its standing among leading global sustainable financial institutions.
Global finance perspective
From his side, Joseph Giarraputo, Founder and Editorial Director of Global Finance, stated: "Sustainable finance continues to expand in key markets around the world, driven by strong issuance of green, social, and sustainability bonds, with the sustainable debt market now measured in the trillions of dollars. However, persistent challenges remain, including regulatory fragmentation, data and disclosure gaps, concerns about greenwashing, and the need for more credible impact measurement. Global Finance's Sustainable Finance Awards celebrate financial institutions that demonstrate creative, innovative, and effective leadership across a wide range of initiatives."
Criteria and selection process
Regional winners were selected by Global Finance editors based on award submissions, independent research, governance policies, strategic objectives, and measurable achievements in environmental and social sustainability financing. The awards evaluated initiatives and performance from January 2025 through December 2025.
Founded in 1987, Global Finance has a circulation of approximately 50,000 readers across 185 countries, territories, and districts. Its audience includes senior corporate and financial decision-makers at multinational companies and financial institutions. The magazine's website, GFMag.com, offers in-depth analysis and commentary drawn from nearly four decades of experience in international financial markets. Global Finance is headquartered in New York, with offices around the world.
Meshal Alshayee
Sustainability is a core pillar of KFH's strategy and operations
Kuwait Times
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