Qatar's Lesha Bank expands global footprint with $57.65m stake in Edinburgh Airport
JEDDAH: Qatar's Lesha Bank has acquired a 210 million Qatari riyals ($57.65 million) stake in Edinburgh Airport, marking its debut in the global infrastructure investment market.
The bank, the first independent Shariah-compliant institution authorized by the Qatar Financial Centre Regulatory Authority, announced that the investment is being managed by a respected infrastructure fund manager.
This move aligns with the bank's strategic focus on resilient asset classes and marks a significant step in its global infrastructure investment journey, according to a statement from Lesha Bank.
Lesha Bank CEO Mohammed Ismail Al-Emadi described the investment in Edinburgh Airport as a key milestone for the institution.
'As part of our infrastructure investment portfolio, we seek attractive investment opportunities that may drive long-term value. Our recent focus on aviation investments has been met with strong demand from our clients, given the sector's robust growth potential,' he said.
The CEO, who has recently been featured in Forbes' list of the top 40 asset managers in the Middle East for 2025, added that the collaboration with their business partners reinforces the bank's commitment to delivering value for all stakeholders involved.
The institution also explained that the acquisition marks an important advancement in its aviation strategy following its recent purchase of multiple aircraft leased to a major airline.
The acquisition reinforces its commitment to expanding its aviation and infrastructure portfolio, with the investment structured through a Shariah-compliant financing arrangement, the bank, listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange, said in a filing on March 26.
Lesha Bank serves as an investment partner, offering premium financial opportunities and innovative solutions with a broad local, regional, and international reach. The institution continues to strengthen its position as a trusted advisor and gateway to opportunities in Qatar, the wider region, and global markets, with a particular focus on the US, Europe, and the MENA region.
The organization also offers high-net-worth individuals and corporates a range of innovative, tailor-made Islamic financial products and solutions covering alternative investments focused on real estate and private equity, along with private wealth, asset management, and investment banking advisory.
In January, the bank disclosed the interim financial statement for the 12-month period ending Dec. 31, 2024. The financial statements revealed a net profit of 128,165 million in comparison to 94,388 million for the same period of the previous year.
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