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Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) has announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting continued operational stability in supporting the kingdom’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) despite the current economic and geopolitical challenges.
Net profit attributable to BDB’s shareholders reached BD305,000 in the first quarter of 2026, against BD363,000 for the same period in 2025 – a decrease of 16 per cent.
This movement was mainly due to lower net Islamic financing and interest income, as well as reduced recovery income offset by a decline in total operating expenses and a reduction in provision charges compared to the same period from the last year.
Total operating income stood at BD2.492 million, compared to BD2.776m in Q1 2025. This decline of 10pc was primarily due to higher Islamic financing and interest expenses alongside a contraction in recovery income.
Total comprehensive loss attributable to the bank’s shareholders amounted to BD4.691m, against a comprehensive income of BD1.126m in the corresponding quarter of the prior year.
This change is largely attributed to negative fair value movements in securities. Shareholders’ equity reached BD62.645m, representing a reduction of 7pc from BD67.336m, while total assets stood at BD200.239m, down 4pc from BD208.135m reported in Q1 2025.
The bank continued to execute on its strategic priorities throughout the quarter with disciplined portfolio management, enhanced operational efficiency, and a diverse suite of financial solutions designed to meet the distinct requirements of SMEs – all delivered within a rapidly evolving and increasingly demanding business environment.
Commenting on the occasion, BDB chairman Ghassan Abdulaal said: “The first quarter highlights confirm the resilience of the bank’s business model and its capacity to navigate a period marked by significant regional changes and economic complexity. They are grounded in BDB’s solid operational foundations and a steadfast dedication to fulfilling its developmental mandate.
“We will continue our efforts to empower entrepreneurs and SMEs as a cornerstone of Bahrain’s economic progress, and to deepen our contribution to sustainable development in line with the broader national ambitions. This purpose has always driven the bank’s institutional impact and further reinforces the part it plays in serving the national economy.”
BDB chief executive officer Dalal Al Qais added: “Throughout the first quarter, we have maintained our strategic focus on developing our financing products, strengthening internal processes, and raising the standard of services that meet the growing aspirations of our clients. We strive to drive empowerment across the SME ecosystem in the form of innovative solutions that enhance business growth and competitiveness. Every initiative we pursue towards this goal stems from our belief that this sector is integral to Bahrain’s long-term economic development.”
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