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Warba Bank announced its participation as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner, alongside Emirates NBD and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, in successfully closing a landmark USD 1 billion 4-year financing for Avolon Holdings Limited, one of the world’s largest aviation finance companies.
Avolon ranks as the second-largest aircraft leasing company globally, with a strong operational footprint in the Middle East.
Avolon, the second largest global aviation leasing company, has a sizeable operational presence in the Middle East regional aviation sector, working with 141 airlines in 60 countries, and has an owned, managed, and committed fleet of 1,096 aircraft. This landmark transaction marks Avolon’s largest financing deal in the Middle East and its first structured in accordance with Sharia principles
This transaction provides an additional pool of liquidity to support its growth strategy. The transaction was well received and saw participation from new banks including Gulf Bank from Kuwait, Dubai Islamic Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank from UAE.
Commenting on the milestone, Thuwaini Al Thuwaini, Chief Investment Banking Officer at Warba Bank, said: “We are proud to lead this landmark USD 1 billion financing for Avolon, a testament to Warba Bank’s growing expertise in the global aviation sector. This transaction not only strengthens our presence in the Middle East but also highlights our commitment to foster strong partnerships with leading global companies like Avolon. We look forward to further collaborations that drive value and innovation in the aviation financing space.”
Warba Bank has a strong track record in arranging syndicated financing across key industries regionally and globally. Over the past few years, the bank has established itself as a reliable player in aviation finance by executing strategic deals with major sector players—affirming its leadership in investment banking services compliant with Islamic principles.
Ross O’Connor, Chief Financial Officer at Avolon, stated: “This facility further expands our banking relationships in the Middle East consistent with our strategy of diversifying our sources of capital. It demonstrates the strong appetite in the region for high quality aviation lending opportunities, with Avolon’s positive financial trajectory and successful growth strategy ensuring the transaction was well supported.”
Warba Bank is one of Kuwait’s fastest-growing Islamic banks, recognized for its leadership in digital innovation and commitment to social responsibility. The bank continues to solidify its position as a trusted financial partner, delivering value to customers and contributing to Kuwait’s economic progress.
