BAHRAIN-BASED ALABRAAJ RESTAURANTS ADOPTS BITCOIN TREASURY STRATEGY

Last updated: June 19, 2025, 18:57 | Written by: Brian Armstrong

In a groundbreaking move signaling the increasing acceptance of digital assets in the Middle East, Bahrain-based AlAbraaj Restaurants Group, a publicly listed catering company, has announced its adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy.This bold decision positions AlAbraaj as the first publicly traded company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the broader Middle East to embrace Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset.With a market capitalization of $24.2 million, the company aims to emulate the success of corporate Bitcoin holders like Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy) and leverage the potential of Bitcoin to strengthen its portfolio and explore opportunities in Sharia-compliant finance.The collaboration with New York-based investment firm 10X Capital further underscores AlAbraaj's commitment to navigating the complexities of the cryptocurrency market and unlocking its potential for long-term growth.What does this signify for the future of finance in the region, and what benefits does AlAbraaj anticipate from this strategic shift?

What is a Bitcoin Treasury Strategy and Why is AlAbraaj Doing It?

A Bitcoin treasury strategy involves a company allocating a portion of its corporate treasury, typically cash reserves, to Bitcoin. According to a May 15 announcement, AlAbraaj Restaurants Group partnered with 10X Capital to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy similar to top corporate BTC holder Strategy, previously known as MicroStrategy. The firm also aims to explore Sharia-compliant access to Bitcoin for the Islamic world.This is done with the belief that Bitcoin can serve as a store of value, hedge against inflation, and potentially provide better returns than traditional assets like cash or bonds. AlAbraaj Restaurants Group, a publicly listed Bahraini catering firm, has adopted a Bitcoin treasury strategy with plans to expand into Sharia-compliant finance.Many companies, particularly those in the technology sector, have adopted this strategy in recent years, recognizing Bitcoin's potential for long-term growth.

AlAbraaj Restaurants Group's decision to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy is driven by several factors:

Diversification: Bitcoin offers a way to diversify the company's treasury assets and reduce its reliance on traditional financial instruments.
Inflation Hedge: With concerns about inflation rising globally, Bitcoin is seen as a potential hedge against the devaluation of fiat currencies.
Potential for Appreciation: AlAbraaj believes that Bitcoin has the potential to appreciate in value over time, providing significant returns on its investment.
Innovation and Future-Proofing: By embracing Bitcoin, AlAbraaj is positioning itself as an innovative and forward-thinking company, ready to adapt to the changing financial landscape.
Sharia-Compliant Finance: The company aims to explore Sharia-compliant access to Bitcoin for the Islamic world.

By partnering with 10X Capital, AlAbraaj gains access to expertise and resources to effectively manage its Bitcoin treasury and navigate the complexities of the cryptocurrency market.

AlAbraaj's Partnership with 10X Capital

The partnership between AlAbraaj Restaurants Group and 10X Capital is a crucial element of the company's Bitcoin treasury strategy. 10X Capital is a New York-based investment firm with expertise in digital assets and cryptocurrency markets.They provide AlAbraaj with the necessary guidance and support to effectively manage its Bitcoin holdings.

Here are some key aspects of the partnership:

Expert Guidance: 10X Capital provides AlAbraaj with expert guidance on Bitcoin investment strategies, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Market Insights: 10X Capital offers valuable insights into the cryptocurrency market, helping AlAbraaj make informed decisions about its Bitcoin investments.
Custodial Solutions: 10X Capital assists AlAbraaj in securing and managing its Bitcoin holdings through secure custodial solutions.
Strategic Planning: The partnership involves collaborative strategic planning to align AlAbraaj's Bitcoin treasury strategy with its overall financial goals.

This strategic alliance allows AlAbraaj to confidently enter the Bitcoin market, leveraging 10X Capital's expertise to maximize returns and mitigate risks.

Emulating Strategy (Formerly MicroStrategy): A Model for Success

AlAbraaj Restaurants Group has explicitly stated that it aims to emulate the Bitcoin treasury strategy of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), a leading corporate Bitcoin holder. Bahrain-based AlAbraaj Restaurants Group with a $24.2 million market cap has adopted a Bitcoin treasury strategy in partnership with 10X Capital. The company made an initial investment of 5 BTC and plans to allocate a significant portion of its corporate treasury to Bitcoin, aiming to strengthen its portfolio and expand into the finance industry.MicroStrategy's success in adopting Bitcoin as a primary reserve asset has inspired many companies to follow suit. Bahrain-based publicly listed catering company with a $24. 22 million market cap has adopted a Bitcoin treasury strategy in partnership with investment firm 10X Capital. According to a May 15 announcement, AlAbraaj Restaurants Group partnered with 10X Capital to adopt a Bitcoin (BTC) treasury strategy similar to top corporate BTC holder Strategy, previously known as MicroStrategy. The firmAlAbraaj sees MicroStrategy's approach as a proven model for success in the cryptocurrency market.

Key aspects of the Strategy model that AlAbraaj aims to replicate include:

Long-Term Investment Horizon: A commitment to holding Bitcoin for the long term, viewing it as a strategic asset rather than a short-term investment.
Continuous Accumulation: Regularly adding to its Bitcoin holdings over time, taking advantage of market dips and long-term growth opportunities.
Transparency and Communication: Publicly disclosing its Bitcoin holdings and strategy to investors and stakeholders, building trust and confidence.
Education and Advocacy: Actively promoting Bitcoin and educating others about its benefits, contributing to the growth of the cryptocurrency ecosystem.

By following the Strategy model, AlAbraaj aims to establish itself as a leader in the Bitcoin space and attract investors who share its vision for the future of finance.

Bitcoin's Potential as a Sharia-Compliant Asset

One of the most interesting aspects of AlAbraaj Restaurants Group's Bitcoin treasury strategy is its intention to explore Sharia-compliant access to Bitcoin for the Islamic world.Sharia law, which governs many aspects of life for Muslims, has specific requirements for financial transactions.To be considered Sharia-compliant, an investment must adhere to these principles.

Some key considerations for Sharia compliance in the context of Bitcoin include:

Prohibition of Interest (Riba): Sharia law prohibits the charging or paying of interest.Therefore, any Bitcoin lending or staking activities must be structured to avoid interest-based returns.
Avoidance of Speculation (Gharar): Sharia law discourages excessive speculation or uncertainty.Bitcoin investments must be based on sound analysis and due diligence, rather than gambling or random chance.
Ethical Considerations: Sharia law requires that investments be ethical and avoid supporting activities that are harmful or immoral. 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.Bitcoin investments must be carefully scrutinized to ensure they comply with these principles.

While there is ongoing debate among Islamic scholars about the Sharia compliance of Bitcoin, AlAbraaj's initiative could pave the way for greater acceptance of cryptocurrency within 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, positioningThis would potentially unlock a significant new market for Bitcoin and other digital assets.

Challenges in Sharia Compliance for Bitcoin

Determining whether Bitcoin and its related activities are Sharia-compliant is an ongoing discussion among Islamic scholars.The volatility of Bitcoin and the potential for speculative trading present challenges in aligning it with the principles of Sharia finance. AdoptionBitcoinRegulationThe initiative draws direct inspiration from MicroStrategy, now rebranded as Strategy, which is the largest corporate holder of BitcHowever, efforts are being made to structure Bitcoin-based products and services in a way that adheres to these principles.

Potential Solutions for Sharia-Compliant Bitcoin Investments

Several approaches are being explored to make Bitcoin investments Sharia-compliant:

Structuring Investments as Equity Partnerships: Instead of lending or staking, Bitcoin investments can be structured as equity partnerships, where profits and losses are shared according to Sharia principles.
Using Bitcoin for Trade Finance: Bitcoin can be used to facilitate trade finance, providing a Sharia-compliant alternative to traditional banking services.
Investing in Bitcoin Mining: Investing in Bitcoin mining operations can be considered Sharia-compliant as long as the mining process is ethical and environmentally responsible.

What this Means for the Future of Bitcoin and the Middle East

AlAbraaj Restaurants Group's adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy has significant implications for the future of Bitcoin and the financial landscape in the Middle East. Home; About us; Return and Refund; Contact us; LOGIN; SEARCH; FOLLOW US. Facebook; Twitter; Youtube; Instagram; RSSThis move could encourage other companies in the region to explore the potential of cryptocurrency, leading to greater adoption and integration of digital assets into the mainstream economy.

Here are some potential consequences of this trend:

Increased Bitcoin Adoption: More companies adopting Bitcoin treasury strategies could drive up demand for the cryptocurrency and increase its price.
Greater Regulatory Clarity: The growing interest in Bitcoin could prompt regulators in the Middle East to develop clearer and more comprehensive regulations for digital assets.
Innovation in Sharia-Compliant Finance: The exploration of Sharia-compliant Bitcoin investments could lead to the development of new and innovative financial products and services tailored to the Islamic world.
Economic Growth: The adoption of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies could stimulate economic growth in the Middle East by attracting investment and fostering innovation.
Global Recognition: This move positions Bahrain and the Middle East as progressive and innovative players in the global financial landscape.

AlAbraaj's decision is a bold statement about the potential of Bitcoin and the willingness of companies in the Middle East to embrace new technologies.It could be a catalyst for significant change in the region's financial sector.

Potential Risks and Challenges

While the adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy offers numerous potential benefits, it's also important to acknowledge the risks and challenges involved.Companies considering this approach must carefully assess these factors and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Some key risks and challenges include:

Volatility: Bitcoin is known for its price volatility, which can lead to significant fluctuations in the value of a company's treasury assets.
Regulatory Uncertainty: The regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies is still evolving in many countries, creating uncertainty and potential compliance challenges.
Security Risks: Bitcoin holdings are vulnerable to theft and hacking, requiring companies to implement robust security measures to protect their assets.
Accounting and Tax Implications: The accounting and tax treatment of Bitcoin is complex and can vary depending on the jurisdiction.
Reputational Risk: Association with Bitcoin may carry reputational risks, particularly for companies operating in highly regulated industries.

AlAbraaj Restaurants Group, through its partnership with 10X Capital, is likely taking these risks into account and implementing measures to mitigate them. Bahrain-based publicly listed catering company with a $24.22 million market cap has adopted a Bitcoin treasury strategy in partnership with investment firm Skip to contentHowever, it's crucial for all companies considering a Bitcoin treasury strategy to conduct thorough due diligence and develop a comprehensive risk management plan.

Tips for Companies Considering a Bitcoin Treasury Strategy

If your company is considering adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy, here are some practical tips to help you navigate the process:

Conduct Thorough Research: Understand the fundamentals of Bitcoin, its potential benefits, and the associated risks.
Develop a Clear Investment Strategy: Define your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon for Bitcoin investments.
Partner with Experts: Engage with experienced cryptocurrency professionals who can provide guidance on investment strategies, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
Implement Robust Security Measures: Secure your Bitcoin holdings with hardware wallets, multi-signature authentication, and other security best practices.
Stay Informed About Regulatory Developments: Monitor regulatory changes and ensure your Bitcoin activities comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
Educate Your Stakeholders: Communicate your Bitcoin strategy to investors, employees, and other stakeholders, addressing their concerns and building trust.
Start Small: Begin with a small allocation to Bitcoin and gradually increase your holdings over time as you gain experience and confidence.
Diversify Your Holdings: Consider diversifying your cryptocurrency holdings beyond Bitcoin to reduce risk.
Regularly Review and Adjust Your Strategy: Continuously monitor the performance of your Bitcoin investments and adjust your strategy as needed based on market conditions and your company's financial goals.

Conclusion: A New Era for Finance in the Middle East?

AlAbraaj Restaurants Group's adoption of a Bitcoin treasury strategy marks a significant turning point for the Middle East's financial landscape. As reported by CoinTelegraph, AlAbraaj Restaurants Group, a publicly listed catering firm in Bahrain, has adopted a Bitcoin treasury strategy in collaboration with investment firm 10X Capital. Announced on May 15, the company aims to emulate the strategy of top corporate BTC holder, MicroStrategy, by making Bitcoin its primary reserve asset.As the first publicly listed company in the region to embrace Bitcoin as a reserve asset, AlAbraaj is paving the way for wider adoption of cryptocurrency and digital assets.

Key takeaways from this development include:

Bitcoin is gaining acceptance as a legitimate asset class for corporate treasuries.
The Middle East is becoming increasingly open to innovative financial technologies.
The potential for Sharia-compliant Bitcoin investments is attracting interest from the Islamic world.
AlAbraaj's move could inspire other companies in the region to explore the benefits of Bitcoin.

While there are risks and challenges involved, the potential rewards of adopting a Bitcoin treasury strategy are significant.AlAbraaj Restaurants Group's bold decision could usher in a new era of finance in the Middle East, characterized by innovation, diversification, and greater access to digital assets. In a groundbreaking development for the Middle East s financial landscape, Al Abraaj Restaurants Group has become the first publicly listed company in Bahrain and the broader region to adopt a Bitcoin treasury strategy. The announcement, made on, marks a significant milestone in the Gulf s approach to digital assets, positioning Al Abraaj as a trailblazer [ ]The journey of AlAbraaj Restaurants Group will be watched closely as it navigates the digital asset space.Its successes and learnings will serve as a valuable case study for other companies considering a similar path. Al Abraaj Restaurant Group has become the first publicly traded company in the Middle East to adopt a Bitcoin-based treasury strategy. With these statements, the company confirms that it now views the market-leading cryptocurrency as a strategic reserve asset and plans to continue its exposure to BTC.Will this spark a wider trend?Only time will tell.