Call for Entries: Best New Islamic Retail Bank 2026

The Global Banking & Finance Review Awards Program has officially opened nominations for Best New Islamic Retail Bank 2026, recognising newly established Islamic banking institutions that are delivering innovative, customer-focused retail banking services while adhering to the principles of Sharia-compliant finance.

Islamic banking continues to expand rapidly across global financial markets, driven by increasing demand for ethical and transparent financial services. New Islamic retail banks are playing a vital role in this growth by introducing modern banking platforms, customer-centric products, and technology-driven services designed to meet the needs of today’s retail banking customers.

The Best New Islamic Retail Bank 2026 award celebrates institutions that have successfully launched retail banking operations and demonstrated strong innovation, growth potential, and commitment to Sharia-compliant financial practices.

Newly established Islamic banks offering retail banking services are encouraged to submit nominations highlighting their achievements, product innovation, and strategic vision. Entries can be submitted through the official awards nomination form, and organisations may contact awards@gbafmag.com for further information or assistance.

Check out the complete awards timetable here.

Recognising Emerging Excellence in Islamic Retail Banking

Retail banking is one of the most dynamic areas within Islamic finance, providing individuals and families with access to essential financial services such as savings accounts, financing solutions, and digital banking platforms that comply with Islamic principles.

The Best New Islamic Retail Bank 2026 category recognises newly launched banks that have quickly established themselves as strong competitors in the Islamic banking landscape through innovation, customer service excellence, and digital transformation.

Many new Islamic retail banks are leveraging modern technologies to offer mobile-first banking experiences, simplified onboarding processes, and accessible Sharia-compliant financial products designed to serve diverse customer segments.

Submissions may highlight achievements related to:

• Launch and development of a new Islamic retail banking institution
• Introduction of innovative Sharia-compliant retail banking products
• Digital banking platforms designed for retail customers
• Customer acquisition and market expansion strategies
• Initiatives promoting financial inclusion and ethical finance

Institutions that demonstrate strong leadership, innovation, and early impact in Islamic retail banking are encouraged to participate.

About the Global Banking & Finance Review Awards

The Global Banking & Finance Review Awards recognise excellence, innovation, and leadership across the global financial services industry. The awards programme highlights organisations that are shaping the future of banking through innovation, strategic growth, and customer-focused services.

Each year, financial institutions from across Europe, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa participate in the awards programme, gaining international recognition for their achievements.

Through independent editorial research and structured evaluation criteria, the awards identify institutions that are setting new benchmarks in financial services and innovation.

Benefits of Participating

Participation in the Global Banking & Finance Review Awards provides institutions with valuable international recognition and industry visibility.

Benefits include:

• Global recognition for excellence in Islamic banking innovation
• Editorial coverage on the Global Banking & Finance Review platform
• Increased visibility among global banking and finance audiences
• Independent validation of product innovation and service quality
• Enhanced credibility with customers, partners, and industry stakeholders

Join the 2026 Global Banking & Finance Review Awards

As Islamic banking continues to expand worldwide, new retail banks are playing a crucial role in delivering accessible and innovative financial services grounded in ethical principles.

Islamic financial institutions worldwide are invited to showcase their achievements and compete for the Best New Islamic Retail Bank 2026 title.

Submit your nomination today and gain international recognition for innovation and leadership in Islamic retail banking.