Fintechs are an increasingly important feature of the financial services landscape in Bahrain and throughout the Middle East and north Africa (MENA) region. As the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) provides a strong and stable regulatory environment, Bahrain continues to pioneer regional growth. The most established financial services sector in the Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC), Bahrain facilitates innovation as the MENA region has the potential to become a multi-billion-dollar fintech market.
In 2017, the CBB launched a fintech regulatory sandbox that enables companies to test their solutions under supervision. To be eligible, companies must demonstrate innovative solutions, customer benefits, technical testing and an intention to operate in Bahrain in the long term. The sandbox nurtures innovative fintech businesses by offering them a safe, partially deregulated environment.
