Doha Bank Launches Sustainable Finance Framework, Earns Independent Evaluation from Sustainalytics
Doha Bank is pleased to announce the launch of its Sustainable Finance Framework, a step that showcases its strong commitment and alignment to the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. Commenting via its independent Second Party Opinion of the Framework, Morningstar Sustainalytics, a leading ESG research, ratings, and data firm, found the Framework to be ‘credible’, ‘impactful’, and positively aligned with industry standards.
With this launch, Doha Bank paves the way for the issuance of various ESG-aligned debt and capital instruments, including bonds and private placements, under its Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) program. These issuances will be aligned to various internationally recognized guidelines and principles, including the Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles, and Sustainability Bond Guidelines of the International Capital Market Association (ICMA).
“Doha Bank is dedicated to fostering sustainable development and supporting the transition to a greener, more inclusive economy. The Sustainable Finance Framework signifies our unwavering commitment to this goal,” said Gudni Stiholt Adalsteinsson, Acting CEO of Doha Bank. “By promoting ESG-aligned bonds, we aim to attract more responsible investments and contribute to broader environmental and social objectives.”
From strategic decision-making to core business operations, Doha Bank has taken a holistic approach to ESG, allowing it to deliver continuous value to its stakeholders, including customers, shareholders, employees, and the broader community. The bank’s Commercial Banking Unit collaborates with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and microenterprises, offering grassroots funding aimed at encouraging innovative, inclusive business practices within the local community. Through its Wholesale Banking, the Bank also funds various infrastructure projects developed in line with internationally recognized sustainability standards.
“We are truly honored that Doha Bank has chosen Deutsche Bank as ESG Coordinator to accompany them in developing a credible and ICMA Principle-aligned sustainable finance program, which was externally validated by Morningstar Sustainalytics. ESG is a core element of Deutsche Bank’s strategy and as a global Financial Institution, we play a critical role in supporting our Clients to raise capital to support the ecological and sustainable transition. We congratulate Doha Bank for this key milestone in their sustainability journey”, said Abdeslam Alaoui, head of CEEMA Capital Markets at Deutsche Bank.
This significant step has positioned Doha Bank as one of the forerunners of sustainable finance in the region, underscoring a long commitment to ESG principles and a more sustainable future. Going forward, the bank remains committed to pursuing opportunities aimed towards bettering sustainable infrastructure and social development in Qatar and beyond.
For more information about Doha Bank’s Sustainable Finance Framework and its Sustainability journey, please visit dohabank.com/sustainability/.