Arab Bank for Investment and Foreign Trade, known as Al Masraf, has moved closer to global capital markets through a structured funding plan. Specifically, the bank appointed several financial institutions to prepare investor engagement, which signals confidence in current fixed-income market conditions.
From the beginning, UAE debut USD bond issuance defines the bank’s broader funding strategy and market approach. Therefore, Al Masraf will begin investor calls and meetings on January 16, 2026, aiming to build awareness, encourage demand, and clarify credit positioning.
Importantly, Al Masraf holds a distinct role within the national banking system. As the UAE’s only federal commercial bank, it supports institutional credibility, while government ownership strengthens its long-term financial standing.
In addition, the UAE federal government owns 60 percent of Al Masraf through the Emirates Investment Authority. Consequently, this ownership structure reassures investors and reinforces expectations of continued financial support.
Meanwhile, credit strength further underpins the planned transaction. Fitch Ratings assigns Al Masraf an A rating with a stable outlook, which reflects solid capitalization, prudent management, and shareholder backing.
To support execution, the bank selected a diversified group of financial institutions. Specifically, Emirates NBD Capital, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Mashreq, and Standard Chartered Bank will coordinate the global offering process.
At the same time, RAKBANK will act as joint lead manager and joint bookrunner. As a result, the transaction benefits from both regional expertise and international distribution capacity.
Subject to favorable market conditions, Al Masraf plans to issue a five-year senior unsecured bond. The instrument will be denominated in US dollars, which aligns with international investor preferences.
Moreover, the bond will follow Regulation S standards, ensuring compliance with offshore issuance requirements. Consequently, this structure broadens accessibility for global institutional investors.
In addition, the bond will carry a fixed interest rate. Therefore, the structure targets investors seeking predictable returns and reduced rate volatility.
The issuance will take place under Al Masraf’s five-billion-dollar Euro Medium Term Note programme. As a result, the framework provides flexibility on issuance timing, size, and pricing decisions.
Through this programme, the bank can respond efficiently to changing market conditions. Consequently, Al Masraf improves funding agility while maintaining strategic discipline.
Proceeds from the bond will support general corporate purposes. Specifically, the funds will enhance balance-sheet management and diversify long-term funding sources.
After issuance, the transaction will follow FCA and ICMA stabilisation guidelines. Accordingly, these measures aim to support orderly trading and protect market integrity.
Furthermore, the bonds will list on major international exchanges. They will appear on the London Stock Exchange’s International Securities Market and Nasdaq Dubai.
Through this transaction, Al Masraf strengthens its international presence and investor reach. Ultimately, the UAE debut USD bond issuance represents a significant step in the bank’s funding evolution.
