From Editor-in-Chief

Interview with Regulator - A stable regulatory hand

Having showed substantial growth in the first nine months of 2012, Bahrain's insurance industry is poised to expand further when compulsory medical insurance is implemented. Mr Nader Al Mandeel of the Central Bank of Bahrain gives an update on...

Microinsurance - The unrealised potential

Despite the vast potential for microinsurance in MENA, the opportunities remain untapped. We look at recent launches of low-premium products and presents a photo essay showcasing microinsurance in action in three MENA countries - Kuwait, Morocco,...

The Kingdom beckons

Bahrain's insurance industry continues to expand - albeit at a slower pace - with market saturation, political disturbances and shrinking profits all creating an impact. However, the potential in the market still draws big names looking for a...

Life and healthcare: Waypoints from Bahrain

Following the financial crisis in late 2008, medical premiums in Bahrain have continued to grow at a slower rate, while life has contracted. Mr Robert Grey of Bahrain National Life analyses these market trends and the changes that can be expected.

A changing pensions landscape

With the number of people reaching retirement age in the coming decades, pension funding represents a real challenge for governments. The development of a regional private pension industry seems essential. Mr Paul Bromley of Takaud Savings and...

CEO Issues - CEOs in the hot seat

In today's rapidly changing and riskier business environment, insurance CEOs are facing enormous challenges. We speak to members of the MENA Insurance CEO Club (MICC) to assess their responses and endeavours toward long-term sustainability.

CEO Issues - The nuts and bolts of compliance with best practices

A key issue facing GCC insurance CEOs is achieving growth in a fast-changing environment and an equally fast-evolving regulatory and governance landscape in the region. Mr Adeel Mushtaq of KPMG summarises evolving regulations in the context of...

CEO Issues - Staying the course in 2013

Although growth in the MENA region has been affected by political uncertainty and competition, there are some bright spots ahead. Dr Roger Sellek of A.M. Best examines the current state of the region's insurance sector and the key priorities for...

Saudi Arabia - The way to life

Life insurance is still under-developed in Saudi Arabia but could be a solution for struggling insurers wanting to diversify their portfolios, strengthen their capital and increase their customer base. Mr Amine Mohammed Braikia of Saudi Re analyses...

Saudi Arabia - TPAs and health insurance: A symbiotic relationship

Mr Christian Gregorowicz of NEXtCARE discusses the benefits and importance of third-party administrators (TPAs) in medical claims management, one of the most complex lines in the insurance industry.

Takaful seeks place amid boom in Islamic finance

Last year saw a record volume in sukuks. But while the Islamic banking and capital markets are benefitting from these developments, the takaful sector is largely missing from the party.

Bahrain - Upbeat despite slower growth

Following the overall market trend, takaful contributions grew at a slower pace last year, although this was still higher than that of conventional premiums. But market leaders remain optimistic that there is room for development.

Ratings on the move

MENA & GCC - International charter activated for extreme weather in Middle East

MENA & GCC - Association raises cover limits for hull, liability

MENA & GCC - MENA Transition Fund receives US$38 mln support from global counterparts

World more at risk from markets and Mother Nature: WEF

New reinsurer launched in Hong Kong

Diary of Events

People on the move