The Financial University is expanding its engagement with universities in the Middle East. Following negotiations at the XVII International Economic Forum "Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum 2026," a cooperation agreement was signed between the Financial University and the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), one of the world's leading centers of excellence in Islamic finance.
The global Islamic finance market is experiencing impressive growth, with the industry's annual expansion consistently reaching 15–20% over the past decade. Russia, which launched a two-year pilot project on partnership-based financing in September 2023 and has developed a strategic roadmap through 2030, has an acute need for qualified professionals capable of operating within this highly resilient model.
The collaboration between the Financial University and the BIBF Islamic Finance Centre—an institution with a unique 40-year track record that has trained thousands of professionals for the financial systems of the Persian Gulf countries—is aimed at developing highly qualified specialists in Islamic banking and insurance for both nations.
The parties have agreed to establish regular academic and cultural exchanges for students and faculty, including a "visiting professor" program. This will facilitate the integration of global best practices in Sharia compliance and partnership financing into the Russian educational landscape.
Joint expert research and academic publications are planned, along with the participation of university experts in specialized conferences and symposia. This will lay the groundwork for adapting Islamic financial products to the Russian legal framework and economic realities.
Special attention will be devoted to the development of joint educational programs, including those utilizing distance learning technologies and integrated study formats.
Studying at the Financial University means gaining access to a global educational space.
