Hashim Shawa

Since assuming leadership of the bank in 2007, Hashim Shawa has worked to position Bank of Palestine as the cornerstone of Palestine’s economic landscape. With over 60 years of history, the bank now has around $11 billion in assets, and serves more than 1 million customers. Today, it represents nearly half of Palestine’s GDP and stands as a key driver of economic development. The bank’s diverse portfolio of subsidiaries including Arab Islamic Bank, PalPay, Al Wasata Securities, and Taqa Renewable Energy, has strengthened its resilience, expanding its impact across key industries. Mr. Shawa’s forward-looking governance, digital transformation agenda, and values-based culture have earned the bank global recognition .Notable achievements include being named Best Bank in Financial Inclusion by The Banker magazine (2016), winning a Euromoney Award for Excellence in 2025, and ranking among the Top 100 Banks in the Arab World. His focus on corporate responsibility is reflected internally and externally, with the establishment of Palestine's' first gender-balanced board and the integration of sustainability principles throughout the bank’s operations. A key milestone during his tenure was the acquisition of an In Principle approval for the first Category 1 ADGM license granted to an Arab bank, providing strategic presence in Abu Dhabi and the opportunity to connect with the 15 million Palestinians across the globe. Beyond banking, Mr. Shawa has made significant strides in fostering Palestine’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. He founded Ibtikar Fund, Palestine.