Bangkok – October 17, 2026 -- The Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND) has disbursed more than US$1.37 billion in financing to over 1.3 million clients since inception, and its microfinance network has now won the "Excellence in Inclusive Banking and Social Impact" award at the 2026 Sustainable Development Goals Awards.
The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) organized the awards with the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG). AGFUND CEO Hammam bin Nasser bin Juraid accepted the award in Bangkok, alongside the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group.
AGFUND network has issued 1.5 million loans across nine countries
AGFUND opened its first bank in Jordan in 2004. The network now covers Jordan, Yemen, Bahrain, Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Sudan, Mauritania and Sierra Leone, focusing on communities underserved by conventional financial institutions.
The network has issued more than 1.5 million loans and opened over 927,000 savings accounts. It operates 112 branches and employs more than 1,500 people. Its services finance micro and small enterprises and income-generating activities. Women account for 59 per cent of borrowers.
Prince Abdulaziz credits late Prince Talal and founders of the microfinance banks
HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal bin Abdulaziz, President of AGFUND, said the award recognizes AGFUND's use of financial services to empower underserved communities, strengthen livelihoods and promote economic independence. He credited the founders of the microfinance banks, particularly the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz, for building institutions centered on empowering people.
He said the award reflects more than two decades of commitment by the financial inclusion banks, partners and clients. He added that success should be measured by lasting improvements in people's lives.
AGFUND targets digital products and African expansion
AGFUND plans to strengthen development partnerships and advance digital solutions and innovative financial products. It also intends to integrate financing with training, capacity development, market access and risk protection.
The organization is exploring geographic expansion, particularly in Africa, through institutional partnerships that adapt its approaches to local needs.