Zain Group, a leading provider of ICT and digital lifestyle communications across the Middle East and Africa, has achieved a significant milestone with an upgrade in its Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) ESG rating from BBB to A. The recognition underscores Zain’s growing leadership in embedding sustainability, corporate governance, and ethical business practices into its strategy, reflecting a broader regional push toward resilient and transparent corporate models.

Strengthening Governance and Risk Management

The MSCI upgrade reflects Zain’s deliberate efforts to strengthen its governance frameworks, enhance transparency, and establish global best practices for compliance and disclosure. Over the past year, the Group has clarified board responsibilities, reinforced oversight mechanisms, and deepened executive training and employee engagement programs. These steps ensure that risks are managed more effectively while creating a culture of accountability and trust across its eight operating markets. A cornerstone of Zain’s governance reforms is the establishment of the “Zain Data Office,” which serves as a central pillar for high-quality information governance. With global privacy regulations tightening, particularly in markets such as Kuwait, the office enables compliance with evolving data protection and cloud computing laws, while building resilience against data threats and ensuring secure, transparent information flows.

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Driving a Data- and Sustainability-Driven Operating Model

Zain’s leadership in sustainability extends beyond governance. The Group has strengthened its data privacy and security programs, evidenced by new ISO certifications across business units. This commitment to information security not only builds trust with customers and regulators but also demonstrates Zain’s proactive approach in addressing one of the most material risks in the ICT sector. The company’s latest ESG score also reflects advancements in environmental stewardship. Zain achieved a perfect 10/10 in the environmental category, aligning with its region-wide 2050 Net Zero target. By integrating nature-based solutions and adopting sustainable technologies, Zain is actively supporting climate action while creating long-term value for the communities it serves.

A Strategic Vision Anchored in ESG

Bader Al-Kharafi, Vice Chairman and Group CEO, emphasized that the company’s “4WARD – Progress with Purpose” strategy is guiding Zain’s transformation into a resilient, sustainable, and data-powered organization. He highlighted that ESG is not just about risk management but also about enabling strategic foresight, fostering innovation, and building collaborative partnerships that expand impact across the region.

“Integrating ESG principles at the core of our business strategy is essential for achieving true industry leadership,” said Al-Kharafi. “This upgrade on the MSCI ESG Index reaffirms the success of the company’s focus on innovation and responsibility, powered by transparency, oversight, and the highest global standards.”

Aligning with Global ESG Standards

Zain’s enhanced performance comes at a time when regulatory frameworks across its markets are evolving rapidly. By embedding ESG principles into its operations and disclosures, Zain positions itself as a frontrunner in meeting emerging requirements while maintaining global competitiveness. The Group’s success in areas such as climate action, labor rights, and human capital management highlights its ability to align corporate responsibility with business continuity and profitability. On the social front, Zain’s policies integrate human rights principles into codes of conduct and HR frameworks, with an emphasis on equity, anti-discrimination, and employee welfare. By linking labor practices with ethical governance and environmental goals, Zain is creating a holistic sustainability model that strengthens both its workforce and its reputation as a responsible industry leader.

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A Benchmark for Regional Transformation

Zain’s upgraded MSCI rating reinforces its standing as a catalyst for sustainable transformation in the ICT sector. Its strategy reflects a recognition that responsible governance, climate action, and digital innovation must progress hand in hand to deliver sustainable growth. The company’s ongoing advancements in ESG performance provide a roadmap for peers in the region, demonstrating how robust governance and transparent reporting can enhance both resilience and competitiveness. As technological change accelerates and regulatory expectations increase, Zain’s MSCI upgrade signals the value of ESG integration in shaping the future of digital infrastructure and sustainable development. By aligning operational excellence with ethical responsibility, Zain has established itself as a benchmark for governance and sustainability in emerging markets.

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