ICIEC and Al-Baraka Islamic Bank Bahrain sign credit insurance policy

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Updated 22 July 2025
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ICIEC and Al-Baraka Islamic Bank Bahrain sign credit insurance policy

  • CEO of ICIEC Dr. Khalid Khalafalla said: “This strategic collaboration with Al-Baraka Islamic Bank reflects ICIEC’s commitment to advancing intra-OIC trade and investment

The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit, a Shariah-based multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, and Al-Baraka Islamic Bank Bahrain signed a documentary credit insurance policy. The policy will strengthen support for Shariah-compliant trade finance, enabling greater security and confidence in the international trade ecosystem.
Under this partnership, ICIEC will provide insurance coverage for the confirmation of letters of credit issued by Al-Baraka Islamic Bank in connection with the import and export of eligible Shariah-compliant goods and services. This solution will help mitigate payment risks associated with cross-border trade while promoting sustainable growth in ICIEC’s member states.
CEO of ICIEC Dr. Khalid Khalafalla said: “This strategic collaboration with Al-Baraka Islamic Bank reflects ICIEC’s commitment to advancing intra-OIC trade and investment. By supporting Shariah-compliant trade finance through our documentary credit insurance policy, we are facilitating secure trade flows while empowering Islamic banks to broaden their offerings to clients.”
CEO of Al-Baraka Islamic Bank Bahrain Dr. Adel Salem said: “We are delighted to partner with ICIEC on this pioneering credit insurance policy, which empowers us to extend Shariah‑compliant trade finance to our clients, bolster Bahrain’s role as a regional hub for Islamic banking, and stimulate sustainable economic growth across member states worldwide. This collaboration underscores our commitment to innovation and robust risk management, giving the businesses we serve greater confidence to expand in global markets.”
The documentary credit insurance policy serves as a vital tool for Islamic banks, enhancing their ability to expand trade finance operations with reduced exposure to commercial and political risks.

The policy also complements ICIEC’s broader mandate to promote economic resilience, financial inclusion, and private sector development in member countries.

 


LuLu launches Italian Food Festival 2025 across the Kingdom

Updated 16 December 2025
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LuLu launches Italian Food Festival 2025 across the Kingdom

LuLu Saudi Arabia has announced the launch of the Italian Food Festival 2025, a weeklong culinary showcase bringing the richness of Italian cuisine to shoppers across the Kingdom. The festival is being held at all LuLu stores in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the retailer’s commitment to offering world-class international food experiences.
The event was inaugurated in the presence of distinguished guests, including Dr. Giovanna Mariotto, head of the Consular and Visa Section; Dr. Romano Baruzzi, head commissioner for Italy in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait; and Dr. Ahmed Soliman, trade analyst at the Italian Trade Agency in Riyadh. Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Saudi Arabia, along with senior management representatives, also attended.
Authentic Italian experience
The Italian Food Festival 2025 features a wide selection of traditional Italian products, including cheeses, pasta, sauces, olive oils and premium grocery items, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables imported from Italy. LuLu’s hot food and bakery sections are serving freshly prepared Italian dishes daily, giving customers the chance to enjoy authentic flavors crafted with quality ingredients.
Through initiatives such as the Italian Food Festival, LuLu Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for global cuisines, offering customers access to international products while maintaining high quality standards and competitive pricing. The festival enhances the shopping experience by combining variety, authenticity and culinary discovery under one roof.