Manama: Fintech Forward, the region’s flagship financial services forum, is set to take place in Bahrain on 7-8 October 2026 at Exhibition World Bahrain. Hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) and programmed by Forbes Middle East, Fintech Forward 2026 (FF26) is set to convene global thought leaders, leading financial innovators, and policymakers, to examine the most pressing ecosystem challenges that lie ahead, as well as the high-potential investment opportunities that are powering the financial services industry’s next phase of growth in Bahrain, the broader region and beyond.
Supported by the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) and Bahrain FinTech Bay, this year’s edition is held under the theme “Finance in the Age of Intelligent Infrastructure”, building on its reputation as a space for groundbreaking collaboration, visionary thought leadership, and industry advancement.
“Now in its fourth year, Fintech Forward has emerged as a leading industry gathering, underscoring both the dynamism of Bahrain’s financial services ecosystem and the robust backing of industry stakeholders collectively committed to advancing its future. Bringing together a broad network of leading financial institutions and ecosystem partners, the event convenes thought leaders and chief executives from across Bahrain, the region, and international markets. The curated programme of keynote sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, and strategic networking opportunities provides a space for knowledge exchange and building partnerships at a time of profound transformation across the global financial landscape,” said Mohammed AlAlawi, Chief of Marketing and Communications at Bahrain EDB, adding, “With financial services contributing over 17% to Bahrain’s GDP, FF26 serves as a powerful platform to showcase the sector’s continued progress, resilience, and pivotal role in driving the next wave of innovation and economic growth.”
Amid ongoing global economic uncertainty, the financial services sector continues to demonstrate resilience and agility in adapting to shifting market conditions. In Bahrain, this is reflected in a proactive regulatory environment and strong public-private collaboration, supporting stability while enabling innovation and growth. As the fintech sector continues to evolve, the 2026 edition will focus on practical pathways for growth, including closer integration across financial systems, regulation, and infrastructure, while highlighting opportunities for collaboration and scalable innovation.
“Fintech Forward has become a platform where global leaders, investors, regulators, and innovators come together to shape the future of financial services. At Forbes Middle East, we are proud to partner with Bahrain Economic Development Board in delivering an event that strengthens Bahrain’s position as a leading fintech hub while fostering meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and new opportunities for the industry,” Khuloud Al Omian, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Middle East, said.
The forum will provide a dynamic platform for participants to gain insight from discussions on the latest industry developments and build strategic relationships with prospective partners, investors, and key decision-makers. Slated to bring together both returning and new sponsors, organisations from Bahrain, across the region, and beyond are encouraged to explore sponsorship opportunities that are available across Platinum, Diamond, Silver, and Gold tiers, contributing to what aims to be the most impactful edition to date.
