In course of the Sustainability Forum Middle East which took place on January, 28-29, we had the pleasure to get some insightful answers of Zaina Alzayani (Group Head of Strategy and Sustainability at National Bank of Bahrain) about NBB´s sustainability agenda, industry trends and the role of technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
We hope you enjoy reading the entire interview below.
Could you provide a short overview of sustainability initiatives the National Bank of Bahrain is currently focusing on?
Sustainable Finance Framework
We are pleased to confirm that our Sustainable Finance Framework has been finalized and approved along with obtaining the Second Party Opinion (SPO) and External Review. Obtaining the SPO and External Review is a testament that our Sustainable Finance Framework is on par with international standards and an extremely high bar for financial institutions operating in the GCC markets and beyond.
Sustainability Academy
NBB recently concluded its ‘Sustainability Academy’ programme designed to deepen the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its banking operations. The programme was structured to provide in-depth knowledge across core themes essential to incorporating sustainability into banking, including risk assessment and integration, treasury strategies, sustainable finance, communication, and compliance. Each day featured interactive workshops, practical applications and case studies, enabling participants to enhance their understanding of key ESG concepts and apply the relevant industry-leading frameworks within their respective departments. This is expected to be held on a regular basis to ensure covering wide coverage at the bank.
Updating our Materiality Assessment
We started reassessing our current materiality topics, and engaged with multiple important stakeholders to NBB such as Strategic Customers, Corporate Customers, Retail Customers, Suppliers and Employees in order to gain an in-depth understanding of which topics matter the most to them.
Establishing Sustainability Management Committee “SMC”
We have recently restructured the Sustainability function at NBB, by establishing a SMC at senior management level that will be handling the sustainability responsibilities and initiatives at the bank, and will be reporting to the Nomination, Remuneration, Governance, and Sustainability “NRGS” Committee. The previous sustainability committee grouped have been renamed to become the Sustainability Working Group “SWG”, and will be reporting to the Head of Strategy and Sustainability, along with providing regular updates to the SMC. The new structure is expected to accelerate the sustainability journey at NBB, and ensure senior management oversight over the sustainability initiatives at NBB.
Other updates
We are continuously reviewing and updating our policies and procedures to ensure an alignment with the market practices and recent updates at the bank.
Community Support
Contributing to education, healthcare, social welfare, and national initiatives to enhance the well-being of society.
What key priorities does the National Bank of Bahrain have on its agenda for 2025/2026?
Continue the momentum of key initiatives including:
- Development of a Sustainable Finance Business Model that covers a comprehensive list of products, services, and end-to-end digital solutions.
- Further integration of ESG Factors, and climate-related financial risk factors into the Group’s Risk Management Framework.
- Commitment with Bahrain’s 2035 and 2060 net zero commitments through initiatives to reduce GHG Emissions across the 3 scopes.
- Maintaining sustainability national leadership position and become a regional role model for Sustainability practices in the Banking Industry.
How can the National Bank of Bahrain support financial institutions in the country in their sustainability efforts?
NBB can provide the necessary support whenever is required by financial institutions or other entities in different ways including:
- Providing advisory services to integrate ESG considerations into their business and operations.
- Supporting in connecting them with the right vendors to support different initiatives such as Sustainable Finance Framework, Financed Emissions Calculations, ESG disclosures, etc.
- Providing the necessary funding to facilitate Sustainability projects such as the ones provided to banks working in the social housing.
What key trends do you see in terms of sustainability in the financial services industry?
FinTech
FinTech plays a pivotal role in expanding financial inclusion and enhancing economic productivity in Bahrain. By harnessing digital technologies, FinTech solutions broaden access to financial services, particularly for underserved populations who previously had limited access. In addition to driving economic productivity by streamlining financial processes, reducing transaction costs, and fostering financial literacy. As FinTechs grow, integrating advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) introduces governance challenges. Effective oversight is needed to manage algorithmic biases and ensure transparency in AI-driven decision-making processes.
Climate Change Commitment
Climate Change Commitment in line with the governments commitments by committing to net zero emissions targets through initiatives to reduce GHG Emissions across the 3 scopes, integrating climate-related risks, and aligning the lending and investment practices with climate goals.
Sustainable Finance Initiatives
Sustainable Finance Initiatives including establishing sustainable finance frameworks, setting relevant targets, developing sustainable products and services, financing sustainable projects etc.
Mandatory ESG Reporting
Increasing regulatory requirements for ESG disclosures, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Technological Innovation
Leveraging AI and data analytics to enhance sustainability initiatives and improve reporting accuracy.
What regulatory developments will shape the sustainability landscape in the financial services industry in the Middle East?
The introduction of mandatory ESG disclosure requirements for financial firms and listed companies in Bahrain is poised to significantly impact the business environment and investment climate. By requiring firms to report on their ESG practices, Bahrain can more effectively identify and mitigate long-term risks related to climate change, resource scarcity, and social responsibility. This measure not only encourages the resilience and stability of businesses within the Kingdom but also aligns Bahrain with global best practices, thereby increasing its attractiveness to international investors. Furthermore, mandatory ESG disclosures will drive greater transparency and accountability, leading to improved corporate governance and more informed investment decisions.
The requirement to align with the government’s commitment to net zero emissions is expected to have a significant positive impact on the market overall. Large corporates are expected to require more of sustainable financing to ensure achieving those targets. Banks will be able to bridge the required funding gaps and contribute positively to the achievement of those targets.
Moreover, collaborating with other financial institutions to share knowledge and best practices in sustainability can significantly enhance the industry’s overall approach to sustainability. This collaboration can lead to the development of innovative solutions, improved risk management, and a more unified response to regulatory requirements.
About Sustainability Forum Middle East
Sustainability Forum Middle East is a regional platform for promoting understanding and driving climate action on the part of the private sector, whose embracing of decarbonisation and the promotion of nature-based solutions is critical to meeting the net-zero and sustainability ambitions of the MENA countries. Annually, the Forum hosts a two-day Forum (next edition in January 2026) featuring expert-led workshops and high-level dialogue, as well as a series of roundtable events held across the region that delve into subjects critical to the drive towards decarbonisation and sustainable development of the MENA economies. Further information is availabe on the Sustainability Forum Middle East´s website.
About the National Bank of Bahrain
The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB), founded in 1957, is Bahrain’s first locally owned bank. Headquartered in Manama, it operates 23 branches and 89 ATMs across Bahrain, with additional branches in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. NBB offers a wide range of personal and business banking services, including accounts, credit cards, financing, wealth management, and treasury solutions.
Its Digital Banking platform provides seamless online account management, payments, and transfers. The bank is also committed to sustainability, focusing on community engagement, environmental initiatives, and ethical business practices.
With a vision to drive economic growth through innovative financial solutions, NBB continues to be a key player in Bahrain’s banking sector. Further information is availabe on the NBB´s website.
