MANAMA, Kingdom of Bahrain, May 19, 2025 — Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. has made history as the first publicly traded company in Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Middle East to acquire Bitcoin as a treasury asset. This landmark move reflects Al Abraaj’s commitment to innovation and portfolio diversification in the evolving digital financial landscape.
The company has initially purchased 5 Bitcoin and plans to significantly expand its Bitcoin holdings as part of a broader strategy to enhance its asset portfolio and capitalize on emerging capital market opportunities. Importantly, Al Abraaj aims to pioneer shari’a-compliant financial instruments to broaden Bitcoin exposure within the Islamic finance sector.
Al Abraaj partnered with 10X Capital, a seasoned investment firm known for advising and managing assets for publicly listed companies, including recent advisory roles in major Bitcoin treasury companies like Nakamoto. This collaboration ensures strong expertise in digital asset governance and capital strategy.
The decision to hold Bitcoin follows extensive due diligence and aligns with Bahrain’s progressive regulatory framework under the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB). Al Abraaj remains fully committed to adhering to all applicable laws governing digital assets and transparent disclosures.
Abdulla Isa, Chairman of Al Abraaj’s Bitcoin Treasury Committee, stated, “Our move to become a Bitcoin Treasury Company underscores our forward-thinking approach and focus on maximizing shareholder value. Bitcoin is poised to transform finance globally, and we are proud to lead this innovation in Bahrain. Partnering with 10X Capital positions us to build what we envision as the MicroStrategy of the Middle East.”
Hans Thomas, CEO of 10X Capital, praised the initiative, saying, “Al Abraaj’s corporate Bitcoin adoption enables investors across the GCC to access Bitcoin exposure via a publicly traded company. Bahrain’s progressive regulatory environment continues to drive regional leadership in digital asset adoption. The GCC’s large combined GDP and sovereign wealth funds underscore the immense potential for such innovations. With Al Abraaj, investors from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman can now invest in Bitcoin through the Bahrain Bourse.”
To safeguard its Bitcoin assets, Al Abraaj will implement rigorous custody solutions, portfolio risk management, and governance policies, with regular updates to shareholders on its Bitcoin activities.
This initiative highlights Al Abraaj Restaurants Group’s dedication to innovation, diversification, and sustainable long-term growth, while supporting Bahrain’s digital economy and positioning the company as a regional financial sector leader.
