SPIA awards nomination

KUWAIT CITY, May 12:In a new testament to its steadfast commitment to community development through sports, Kuwait International Bank (KIB) announced that its annual mega sporting event, KIB | The Stadium, organized by the Bank’s strategic partner Suffix, was nominated for the Middle East Sports Industry Awards - SPIA 2025 in the ‘Major Sporting Event of the Year’ category.

The nomination comes on the heels of the third season of KIB | The Stadium’s notable success, which featured a first-of-its-kind show jumping tournament by the sea, pitting it against major sporting events, such asthe FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup UAE 2024 Dubai, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2024 presented by ADQ, among others.

The Sports Industry Awards celebrate excellence in the Middle East's sports sector, recognizing the achievements of individuals, teams, and organizations that have contributed to advancing the sports culture in Kuwait and strengthening its societal and economic impact.

Commenting on the nomination, Marwa Marafie, Manager of the Corporate Communications Unit at KIB, said: “It is an honor to see KIB | The Stadium nominated alongside global sporting giants for this esteemed award, especially after presenting only three editions of the event in partnership with Suffix.In line with KIB’s vision to become the Islamic bank of choice, commitment to social responsibility, and adherence to the finest environment, social, and governance (ESG) principles, we are proud to continue sponsoring and supporting initiatives across Kuwait that contribute to our society’s comprehensive development.”

She added: “This nomination stands as a testament to our dedication to nurturing Kuwait’s sporting culture, particularly equestrianism, which is deeply rooted in our nation’s heritage. It also reflects the growing impact of KIB | The Stadium as a platform for celebrating equestrian talent, inspiring the next generation of athletes, and strengthening Kuwait’s position as an emerging hub for international sporting events.”

On his part, Ahmed Al-Majed, Chief Operations Officer of Suffix, said: “Being nominated alongside some of the Middle East’s most prestigious sporting events is a milestone moment for all of us at Suffix. This recognition affirms that a bold vision and strong partnership can place Kuwait on the global sports map. KIB | The Stadium has become more than just an event — it’s a unique platform that shines a spotlight on equestrian sports, particularly showjumping, which is deeply rooted in our culture and identity. Through this initiative, we celebrate our heritage, empower emerging talents, and deliver unforgettable experiences that resonate across the community. We thank KIB for believing in this shared vision and continuing to support events that inspire national pride and international recognition.”

It is worth noting that the Bank’s sponsorship of KIB | The Stadium since its debut in 2023 stemmed from its firm belief in the unique power of sports in influencing positive change on the individual and societal levels, especially among the younger generations. This comes as part of the Bank’s comprehensive social responsibility program and multifaceted contributions to the overall development of Kuwaiti society, in line with its continued efforts to support the success of the New Kuwait Vision 2035.