AL ABRAAJ RESTAURANTS GROUP ANNOUNCES IT HAS BECOME THE FIRST BITCOIN TREASURY COMPANY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

Last updated: June 20, 2025, 01:18 | Written by: Ari Paul

In a groundbreaking move signaling a potential shift in the Middle Eastern financial landscape, Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C., a prominent restaurant chain listed on the Bahrain Bourse (ABRAAJ), has announced its adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy.This landmark decision makes Al Abraaj the first publicly listed company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the wider Middle East to integrate Bitcoin into its corporate balance sheet. The Bitcoin doctrine is spreading across corporations worldwide, with Bahrain-based Al Abraaj Restaurants Group becoming the first publicly listed company in the entire Middle East region to add BTC to its balance sheet. This shows that companies are becoming more confident in holding Bitcoin as an asset class.This bold step signifies a growing confidence in Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class and marks a pivotal moment for the cryptocurrency's adoption in the region. Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, a popular restaurant chain listed on the Bahrain Bourse, announced on May 15 that it has acquired Bitcoin to add to its corporate treasury. With this landmark stepThe initial purchase of 5 BTC is just the beginning, with the company planning to substantially increase its Bitcoin allocation over time. Al Abraaj Restaurants Group has formally added Bitcoin to its balance sheet, making it the first publicly listed company in Bahrain and the broader Middle East to do so. The company, listed on the Bahrain Bourse under the ticker ABRAAJ, has initiated its Bitcoin treasury strategy with an initial acquisition of 5 BTC.But what does this mean for the restaurant industry?How will this affect the adoption of Bitcoin in the Islamic world? AlAbraaj Restaurants Group, a publicly listed catering company in Bahrain with a market capitalization of $24.2 million, has become the latest firm to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy. The company announced on May 15 that it is partnering with investment firm 10X Capital to allocate a portion of its corporate treasury to Bitcoin, positioningAnd what are the potential risks and rewards of such a strategy? Al Abraaj Restaurants Group has become the first publicly-listed company in the Middle East to hold bitcoin as a treasury asset, purchasing 5 BTC.This article delves into the details of Al Abraaj's historic move, exploring its implications for the future of finance in the Middle East and beyond.

Al Abraaj's Bitcoin Treasury: A Historic First

Al Abraaj Restaurants Group, a publicly listed catering company with a market capitalization of $24.2 million, has officially partnered with 10X Capital to implement its Bitcoin treasury strategy.This strategy, inspired by forward-thinking companies like MicroStrategy, Tesla, and Metaplanet, involves allocating a portion of the company's corporate treasury to Bitcoin. publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy Al Abraaj is the first publicly listed company in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin Treasury strategy, similar to MicroStrategy (Nasdaq:MSTR) and Tesla (Nasdaq: TSLA), and Metaplanet (Tokyo: 3350. T) which wasThe initial acquisition of 5 BTC is a significant symbolic step, setting a precedent for other companies in the region to consider similar strategies.

This move demonstrates Al Abraaj's progressive outlook and its willingness to embrace innovative financial technologies.By diversifying its treasury reserves with Bitcoin, the company aims to:

Protect against inflation and currency devaluation.
Enhance long-term value for shareholders.
Position itself as a leader in the adoption of digital assets.

The partnership with 10X Capital, a New York-based investment firm specializing in Bitcoin treasury strategies, is crucial for Al Abraaj. 10X Capital will provide the expertise and infrastructure needed to manage the company's Bitcoin holdings effectively and securely.This collaboration highlights the growing importance of specialized services in the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market.

Why Bitcoin? Bahrain-based Al Abraaj Restaurant Group has announced it has become the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin (BTC) treasury strategy. The company revealed that it has partnered with 10X Capital, a New York-based investment firm focused on Bitcoin treasury, to promote the adoption of BTC and increase the number ofAl Abraaj's Rationale

The decision to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy is not taken lightly.For Al Abraaj, several factors likely contributed to this decision. Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain [] Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. (Ticker: ABRAAJ) ( Company ), a public listed company on the Bahrain Bourse, is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the first publicly traded company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation CouncilThe most significant ones are:

Inflation Hedge: Bitcoin is increasingly recognized as a hedge against inflation, a concern that is particularly relevant in emerging markets.By holding Bitcoin, Al Abraaj aims to preserve the value of its treasury assets in the face of potential economic instability.
Diversification: Bitcoin offers diversification benefits beyond traditional asset classes. Bitcoin MagazineAbraaj Restaurants Becomes First Bitcoin Treasury Company in the Middle EastToday it was announced that Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. has become the first publicly tradedIts decentralized nature and limited supply make it an attractive alternative to fiat currencies and other investments.
Long-Term Growth Potential: While Bitcoin's price can be volatile, many believe that its long-term growth potential is substantial.Al Abraaj's investment in Bitcoin reflects its confidence in the cryptocurrency's future.
Attracting Innovation: Adopting Bitcoin can attract new customers, new tech-savvy employees, and investors who want to be aligned with companies that embrace modern technologies.

These factors, combined with the growing institutional interest in Bitcoin, likely convinced Al Abraaj to take the plunge and become a pioneer in the Middle East.

The Role of 10X Capital

The partnership with 10X Capital is vital to Al Abraaj's success in this new venture. 10X Capital brings to the table its considerable experience in assisting publicly traded companies with their Bitcoin treasury strategies. MANAMA, Kingdom of Bahrain, (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the firstTheir expertise will help Al Abraaj navigate the complexities of Bitcoin ownership, including custody, security, and regulatory compliance.

10X Capital will also play a key role in educating Al Abraaj's management team and stakeholders about Bitcoin.This education is essential for ensuring that everyone understands the risks and opportunities associated with this new asset class.

Implications for the Middle East and the Islamic World

Al Abraaj's decision to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy has significant implications for the Middle East and the wider Islamic world. Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain [] Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. (Ticker: ABRAAJ) ( Company ), a public listed company on the Bahrain Bourse, is pleased to announce that itIt could pave the way for other companies in the region to follow suit, accelerating the adoption of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

One of the key considerations for Islamic investors is whether Bitcoin is Sharia-compliant.While there is no universal consensus on this matter, many scholars believe that Bitcoin is permissible under Islamic law, as it meets certain criteria such as being a store of value and a medium of exchange.The aim of Al Abraaj working with 10X Capital is to provide Sharia compliant exposure to Bitcoin for the Islamic world.Should this be the case, it would open the doors to massive investments from the Islamic world.

If Bitcoin is widely accepted as Sharia-compliant, it could attract significant investment from Islamic investors, who are estimated to control trillions of dollars in assets.This influx of capital could further boost Bitcoin's price and solidify its position as a mainstream asset.

However, there are also challenges to overcome.Regulatory uncertainty and cultural skepticism towards cryptocurrencies remain significant hurdles in the Middle East. Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the first publicly traded company in theAl Abraaj's success in navigating these challenges will be crucial for inspiring other companies to follow its lead.

The Potential Risks and Rewards

Adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy is not without risks. The publicly listed Bahrain Bourse Company has partnered with 10X Capital to adopt a Bitcoin Treasury strategy similar to MicroStrategy and Metaplanet, with the aim of providing Sharia a compliant exposure to Bitcoin for the Islamic world.Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.SBitcoin's price volatility is a major concern. Today it was announced that Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. has become the first publicly traded company in the region to adopt Bitcoin as a treasury reserve asset. The Bahrain-based hospitality firm announced today it has acquired 5 Bitcoin for its balance sheet, with plans to significantly increase its allocation over time.The value of Al Abraaj's Bitcoin holdings could fluctuate significantly, potentially impacting the company's financial performance.

Other risks include:

Security: Bitcoin holdings are vulnerable to hacking and theft.Al Abraaj must implement robust security measures to protect its assets.
Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving.Changes in regulations could negatively impact the value of Bitcoin.
Reputational Risk: Some stakeholders may view Bitcoin as a speculative or risky asset.Al Abraaj must manage its reputation carefully to avoid any negative backlash.

Despite these risks, the potential rewards of adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy are substantial. Al Abraaj made a historic initial purchase of Bitcoin for its corporate treasury, becoming the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy; Al Abraaj is the first publicly listed company in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin Treasury strategy, similar toIf Bitcoin's price continues to rise, Al Abraaj could see significant gains on its investment. Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. (Ticker: ABRAAJ) ( Company ), a public listed company on the Bahrain Bourse, is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the first publicly traded company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf CooThis could boost the company's profitability and enhance its shareholder value.

Moreover, being a pioneer in the adoption of Bitcoin could enhance Al Abraaj's brand image and attract new customers and investors.This could give the company a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Mitigating the Risks

To mitigate the risks associated with its Bitcoin treasury strategy, Al Abraaj should take the following steps:

Implement Robust Security Measures: This includes using cold storage for the majority of its Bitcoin holdings, implementing multi-factor authentication, and regularly auditing its security systems.
Diversify its Holdings: While Bitcoin may be the primary focus, Al Abraaj should consider diversifying its treasury reserves with other assets to reduce its overall risk exposure.
Stay Informed about Regulatory Developments: Al Abraaj should closely monitor the regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies and adapt its strategy accordingly.
Communicate Effectively with Stakeholders: Al Abraaj should be transparent with its stakeholders about its Bitcoin strategy and address any concerns they may have.

How Other Companies Can Follow Al Abraaj's Lead

Al Abraaj's move can serve as a blueprint for other companies in the Middle East and beyond that are considering adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy.Here are some key steps that these companies should take:

Conduct Thorough Research: Companies should thoroughly research Bitcoin and understand its potential benefits and risks.
Develop a Clear Strategy: Companies should develop a clear strategy for their Bitcoin treasury, including the amount of Bitcoin to allocate, the storage methods to use, and the risk management measures to implement.
Partner with Experts: Companies should partner with experts in the cryptocurrency industry, such as 10X Capital, to help them navigate the complexities of Bitcoin ownership.
Educate Stakeholders: Companies should educate their stakeholders about their Bitcoin strategy and address any concerns they may have.
Start Small: Companies should start with a small allocation to Bitcoin and gradually increase their holdings over time as they gain more experience and confidence.

The Future of Bitcoin in the Middle East

Al Abraaj's adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy is a significant step towards mainstreaming Bitcoin in the Middle East. the first publicly listed companyworldin theinMiddle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy Al Abraaj is the first publicly listed company in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin Treasury strategy, similar to MicroStrategy (Nasdaq:MSTR)and Tesla (Nasdaq: TSLA),and Metaplanet (Tokyo: 3350.T)which wasAs more companies follow suit, the region could become a major hub for cryptocurrency innovation and adoption.However, several challenges remain, including regulatory uncertainty and cultural skepticism.

If these challenges can be overcome, Bitcoin could play a significant role in the future of finance in the Middle East. MANAMA, Kingdom of Bahrain, (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the first publicly traded company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation Council ( GCC ), and the Middle East to acquire Bitcoin as a treasury asset.It could provide a hedge against inflation, facilitate cross-border payments, and promote financial inclusion.

Potential Scenarios

Here are a few potential scenarios for the future of Bitcoin in the Middle East:

Widespread Adoption: If regulations become more favorable and cultural attitudes shift, Bitcoin could become widely adopted in the Middle East, both by individuals and businesses.
Niche Market: Bitcoin could remain a niche market, primarily used by tech-savvy individuals and companies that are willing to take on the risks associated with cryptocurrencies.
Regulatory Crackdown: If governments become concerned about the potential risks of Bitcoin, they could impose strict regulations or even ban it altogether.

The future of Bitcoin in the Middle East is uncertain, but Al Abraaj's bold move has undoubtedly increased the chances of widespread adoption.

Conclusion: A Bold Step into the Future

Al Abraaj Restaurants Group's decision to become the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy is a historic event with far-reaching implications. Al Abraaj made a historic initial purchase of Bitcoin for its corporate treasury, becoming the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy; Al Abraaj isIt signals a growing confidence in Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class and could pave the way for other companies in the region to follow suit.While there are risks involved, the potential rewards are substantial, including protection against inflation, diversification benefits, and enhanced brand image.By taking this bold step, Al Abraaj has positioned itself as a leader in the adoption of digital assets and has set the stage for a potentially transformative shift in the Middle Eastern financial landscape. In a groundbreaking move for the region, Bahrain-based Al Abraaj Restaurants Group has become the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy. This milestone marks a significant shift in regional sentiment toward digital assets and places Bahrain on the map as a potential crypto-forward hub.The key takeaways from this move are:

Al Abraaj is the first publicly listed company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy.
This move signals growing confidence in Bitcoin as a legitimate asset class in the region.
The company aims to protect against inflation, diversify its treasury reserves, and enhance long-term value for shareholders.
The partnership with 10X Capital is crucial for managing the company's Bitcoin holdings effectively and securely.
Other companies can follow Al Abraaj's lead by conducting thorough research, developing a clear strategy, and partnering with experts.

Whether this move will inspire other companies in the Middle East to follow remains to be seen.However, Al Abraaj has certainly sparked a conversation and opened the door to a new era of finance in the region.Consider how this new strategy might influence your own company or investment decisions. Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain [] Al Abraaj Restaurants Group B.S.C. (Ticker: ABRAAJ) ( Company ), a public listed company on the Bahrain Bourse, is pleased to announce that it has purchased Bitcoin for its balance sheet, becoming the first publicly traded company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation Council ( GCC ), and the Middle East to acquire Bitcoin asWhat can be learned from Al Abraaj's pioneering move?It’s time to think about how you can prepare for the future of digital assets.