Intesa Sanpaolo strengthens its role in the Middle East debt capital markets
7 June 2025
In the first months of 2025, Intesa Sanpaolo, through its IMI Corporate & Investment Banking Division, participated as Active Bookrunner in five benchmark bond issues for some of the largest sovereign and corporate issuers in the Middle East region, strengthening its position in the area.
Notably, Intesa Sanpaolo took part in the first corporate Sukuk issuance, a debt security compliant with Islamic finance rules, marking a significant step towards broadening its offering and entering a rapidly expanding market.
"The IMI CIB Division is playing an increasingly central role in international debt markets. The active entry in the corporate Sukuk segment and the commitment to green and sustainable instruments testify to the Bank's ability to respond quickly and competently to constantly evolving markets, offering sophisticated solutions in line with ESG principles”
Massimo Mocio, Deputy Chief - Head of Global Banking & Markets of the IMI CIB Division of Intesa Sanpaolo
Below are details of the transactions that have consolidated Intesa Sanpaolo's presence in the Middle East since the start of the year:
- Green Sukuk for Saudi Electricity Company for a total of $2.75 billion, divided into a 5-year 1.5 billion tranche and a 10-year 1.25 billion tranche (February 2025).
- Masdar's Green issue, structured in two tranches of $500 million each, with maturities of 5 and 10 years (May 2025).
- Dual tranche placement for Abu Dhabi Development Holding Company (ADQ) of $1 billion each on 5- and 10-year maturities (April 2025).
- Euro benchmark issue by the Government of Sharjah (one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates) of €500 million and 7-year maturity (February 2025). Intesa Sanpaolo has already participated in four transactions issued by Sharjah.
- Aldar Properties' $1 billion hybrid subordinated issue the Bank's first DCM mandate with this issuer (January 2025).
intesa Sanpaolo is to date the only Italian bank present in the Gulf region through the International Network - UK & MEA Region, and operates through branches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Istanbul.
