How Bahrain built a thriving fintech ecosystem

🎙️ In this episode of the London Fintech Podcast, Tony Clark sits down with Dalal Buhejji to explore how Bahrain is fast becoming one of the most dynamic fintech hubs in the Middle East.Dalal unpacks Bahrain’s rich legacy in financial services, now the largest contributor to its economy, surpassing oil and gas. She shares how the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) supports global and local fintechs entering the market—providing investment facilitation, guidance, and an environment designed for innovation.They discuss Bahrain’s unique regulatory model featuring a single financial regulator, which simplifies market entry and has been instrumental in developing a thriving fintech ecosystem. Dalal also highlights the success of the country’s regulatory sandbox, which has produced major fintech players and spurred new models in payments, digital banking, and beyond.A core focus of Bahrain’s strategy is talent development, with initiatives to upskill Bahrainis in technology and financial services. Combined with its strategic location, the country offers unrivalled access to the GCC and wider MENA region—positioning Bahrain as a launchpad for global expansion.Looking ahead, Dalal and Tony explore emerging trends shaping Bahrain’s financial future, from AI and digital banking to deeper collaboration across the region.📌 Topics Covered• Bahrain’s evolution into a fintech hub• How the Bahrain EDB supports global fintechs• Single-regulator advantage• Success of Bahrain’s regulatory sandbox• Local talent development & upskilling• Strategic access to GCC & MENA markets• Economic diversification beyond oil• Innovation in payments & digital banking• AI adoption in financial services• What’s next for Bahrain’s fintech ecosystem🔗 Learn MoreTony Clark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tclark100/The London Fintech Podcast: https://londonfintechpodcast.com/Dalal Buhejji: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dbuhejji/Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB): https://www.bahrainedb.com/Go Beyond The Podcast: https://resources.nxwave.com/hub/london-fintech-podcast?nav=aHViX3BhZ2U6NTY%3D&c=cG9zdDo5OTMzNTQ%3D