Ripple Partners with Bahrain Fintech Bay to Advance Blockchain Development
Ripple has entered a strategic partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay, a leading fintech incubator in the region, to strengthen blockchain and digital asset innovation within Bahrain’s financial sector. The collaboration aims to support the development and testing of blockchain-based solutions, pilot projects, and educational initiatives that align with Bahrain’s efforts to expand its fintech ecosystem. Ripple said the partnership reflects its commitment to advancing the region’s digital assets infrastructure and fostering regulatory engagement. Partnership Focuses on Innovation and Education Under the agreement, Ripple and Bahrain Fintech Bay will work together on projects involving blockchain technology, cross-border payments, stablecoins, digital assets, and tokenization. The initiative will also include educational collaborations, accelerator programs, and participation in local fintech events to encourage knowledge sharing and industry growth. Reece Merrick, Ripple’s Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa, said Bahrain’s proactive stance on blockchain regulation makes it a suitable environment for developing digital asset solutions. “We look forward to working with Bahrain Fintech Bay to continue laying the foundations for a thriving local blockchain industry,” Merrick said. He added that Ripple plans to introduce its digital asset custody offering and Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin to Bahrain’s financial institutions in the future. Suzy Al Zeerah, Chief Operating Officer at Bahrain Fintech Bay, said the partnership aligns with the organization’s goal of connecting global innovators with Bahrain’s local fintech community. She emphasized that the collaboration would promote pilot programs, talent development, and practical solutions shaping the region’s financial future. Ripple Expands Presence in Gulf Fintech Sector The announcement coincides with Ripple’s participation in Fintech Forward 2025, an event organized by Economist Impact in Sakhir, Bahrain, on October 8–9. The conference brings together financial technology firms, regulators, and government representatives to discuss global finance challenges and opportunities. Ripple, founded in 2012, provides blockchain-based financial infrastructure for institutions seeking to move and manage digital assets. The company holds more than 60 regulatory licenses worldwide, including a Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) license granted in March 2025. The license made Ripple the first blockchain-enabled payments provider authorized by the DFSA. With Bahrain recognized as one of the early adopters of blockchain technology and among the first jurisdictions to regulate crypto assets, the partnership with Ripple is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s financial system and encourage greater adoption of digital asset solutions.