Ajman Bank has announced a strategic partnership with Franklin Templeton, one of the world’s largest global asset managers, to expand access to Shariah-compliant investment opportunities for its wealth management clients in the UAE.
The collaboration will allow Ajman Bank to offer its clients a selection of Franklin Templeton’s Luxembourg-domiciled Shariah funds, including the Franklin Shariah Technology Fund, the Franklin Shariah Global Multi-Asset Income Fund, and the Templeton Shariah Global Equity Fund. These funds provide diversified exposure to international markets across different sectors, offering actively managed portfolios aligned with Islamic finance principles.
Expanding Investor Access
With global assets under management of approximately $1.62 trillion, Franklin Templeton brings both scale and expertise to the partnership. Its established track record in emerging markets and Islamic finance positions the firm to meet growing regional demand for Shariah-compliant investments.
Mustafa Al Khalfawi, Chief Executive Officer of Ajman Bank, said the agreement reflects the bank’s strategy of offering its clients best-in-class financial products while staying true to Shariah principles.
“This partnership strengthens our customers’ reach to world-class investment solutions and a diversified portfolio of global Shariah-compliant funds,” he said. “By working with Franklin Templeton, we aim to deliver high-quality, values-aligned investment opportunities through a trusted local platform.”
A Growing Market for Shariah Investments
Shariah-compliant investing, which avoids interest-based earnings and companies involved in activities such as gambling, alcohol, and conventional banking, has gained increasing attention in the UAE and across the wider Middle East. Industry reports suggest Islamic finance assets worldwide are projected to grow steadily, supported by rising investor demand and regulatory frameworks encouraging ethical and faith-based finance.
Sandeep Singh, Head of CEEMEA & India at Franklin Templeton, highlighted the significance of the UAE as a hub for Islamic finance and investment.
“We are delighted to continue expanding our footprint in the UAE through this strategic partnership with Ajman Bank,” Singh said. “As one of the largest global asset managers offering Shariah-compliant funds, Franklin Templeton is committed to delivering diversified, actively managed strategies to meet the needs of investors in the region.”
Building Long-Term Value
The partnership comes as part of Ajman Bank’s broader vision to empower clients with world-class investment expertise. By working with global asset managers, the bank aims to position itself as a key player in providing financial solutions that align with both ethical values and international standards.
Franklin Templeton, which has been present in the Middle East for 25 years, said the agreement underscores its long-term commitment to the region. The firm currently serves clients in over 150 countries, with deep capabilities across equities, fixed income, multi-asset strategies, and alternatives.
Ajman Bank said the move reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative and Shariah-compliant solutions through partnerships with leading global institutions, ensuring investors in the UAE have access to diversified opportunities in line with their values.
