Kuwait — Zain Group has announced a significant milestone in its sustainability journey with the upgrade of its MSCI ESG rating from ‘BBB’ to ‘A’ as of September 2025. The recognition reflects the company’s strengthened corporate governance, data privacy initiatives, and its region-wide commitment to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2050, where it scored a perfect 10/10 in the environmental pillar.
The upgrade highlights Zain’s progress in building a resilient, sustainable, and data-driven ecosystem, reinforced by best-in-class corporate governance practices. The company has enhanced oversight mechanisms, compliance processes, and risk management frameworks, while aligning with evolving ESG regulations across its operational markets.
Key advancements include:
- Data privacy & security: ISO certifications across multiple business units, new oversight mechanisms, and the creation of the Zain Data Office to ensure compliance with data protection and cloud computing laws.
- Corporate governance: Clearer board responsibilities, refined oversight structures, and stronger accountability mechanisms.
- Environmental leadership: Adoption of sustainable, nature-based solutions and progress toward 2050 Net Zero targets.
- Labor & ethics: Human rights embedded into HR policies, anti-discrimination measures, employee engagement, and leadership training programs.
Vice Chairman & Group CEO Bader Al-Kharafi said the milestone was the result of Zain’s “4WARD–Progress with Purpose” strategy, which integrates ESG principles into every part of the business:
“This upgrade on the MSCI ESG Index reaffirms the success of our focus on innovation and responsibility, powered by a resilient, sustainable, and data-powered ecosystem built on transparency and adherence to the highest global standards.”
Al-Kharafi emphasized that ESG is not only about risk management but also about building a strategic vision that leverages innovation, responsible AI, and digital infrastructure to drive long-term sustainable growth and regional transformation.
Zain’s progress further consolidates its role as a regional leader in responsible governance and sustainability, setting a benchmark for the ICT sector across the Middle East. By embedding ethical leadership, climate action, and data governance into its core operations, the Group continues to position itself as a catalyst for long-term prosperity and community well-being.
