Ripple has announced a strategic partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay (BFB), the Kingdom’s premier fintech hub, marking a major step in expanding Ripple’s footprint across the Middle East. The collaboration aims to strengthen Bahrain’s digital asset and blockchain ecosystem through a series of pilot projects, educational programs, and innovation-driven events.
Advancing Bahrain’s Digital Finance Vision
Under the partnership, Ripple will work with BFB to accelerate blockchain adoption across sectors, focusing on real-world use cases such as cross-border payments, stablecoins, and tokenization. The collaboration will also serve as a foundation for Ripple’s digital asset custody solution and its Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin, both of which the company plans to introduce to local institutions once regulatory approval is secured.
“We’re excited to help Bahrain advance its blockchain infrastructure,” said Reece Merrick, Ripple’s Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa. “This partnership is about preparing the ground for institutional-grade digital asset innovation and supporting the Kingdom’s long-term financial modernization goals.”
Strengthening Bahrain’s Fintech Ecosystem
Suzy Al Zeerah, Chief Operating Officer of Bahrain Fintech Bay, highlighted that the initiative aligns with Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to position itself as a regional leader in digital finance.
“Our collaboration with Ripple reflects Bahrain’s commitment to advancing blockchain technology and fostering partnerships that support the future of financial innovation in the Kingdom,” she said.
Ripple’s Expanding Presence in the Region
The partnership follows a series of major strategic moves for Ripple in the region and beyond. Recently, the company obtained a DFSA license in Dubai to provide regulated crypto payment services from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Ripple also acquired prime brokerage firm Hidden Road for $1.25 billion, and has forged new institutional partnerships linked to its RLUSD stablecoin, including integrations with DBS Bank and Franklin Templeton.
By joining forces with Bahrain Fintech Bay, Ripple reinforces its role as a global leader in blockchain-based financial infrastructure, while positioning Bahrain as a key innovation hub for digital assets in the Gulf and wider MENA region.
