20 February 2008
Manama - At today's launch event, Gulf Finance House is proud to announce its sponsorship of 'Mosaic', a high quality pictorial tour of Bahraini craftsmanship down the years, compiled by Dr Ali Hassan Follad.  This coffee table style book has extremely high production values and draws on a former investigative study by the author entitled, 'The role of handicrafts within the tourism and economic development sectors in the Kingdom of Bahrain.'

Dr Follad's book is the most comprehensive celebration of the unique skills honed over centuries and champions an industry that continues to make a solid contribution to the Bahraini economy.  He will mark the occasion by addressing guests including Dr. Hassan Fakhroo Minister of Industry and Commerce.

Commenting on the book launch, GFH Chairman Esam Janahi said today, 'We're delighted to sponsor Dr Follad's book and to support the continued appreciation of an industry that is indivisible from the unique character of Bahrain.  GFH is a passionate advocate of this country historical virtues and how they relate to contemporary excellence.  We'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate Dr Follad on his achievement.'

The books author Dr Follad said, 'Gulf Finance House shared my desire to showcase centuries of skill and talent in the Bahraini crafts industry and for this I am very much in their debt.  They shared my belief that educating today's Bahraini's in the cultural achievements of yesteryear is a crucial responsibility.'

Crafts are central to Bahrain's cultural history, with age old wares like baskets, woven mats, textiles, pottery and metalwork historically playing a practical role in the lives of Bahraini families. The Kingdom of Bahrain is rightfully proud of these achievements both past and present and has always made pains to ensure new generations learn the skills honed by their forefathers.

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About Gulf Finance House
Founded in 1999, Gulf Finance House has grown rapidly to become one of the most respected investment banks in the Middle East region in terms of the quality and innovation of its product offerings. Over an eight-year period Gulf Finance House has successfully launched economic infrastructure development projects and investments with an aggregate end value exceeding US$12 billion and received numerous awards for its innovative approach to Islamic banking and finance. Its shares are actively traded on the London Stock Exchange (GDR), the Kuwait Stock Exchange, the Bahrain Stock Exchange and the Dubai Financial Market. 2007 was the most successful year in the banks' history, closing with a net profit of US$ 340 million, an increase of 61% compared to the previous year. 

Reflecting its international reputation, Gulf Finance House has won numerous local and international awards, such as "Best Investment Bank" for three years in a row in 2005, 2006 and 2007, awarded by The Banker Middle East, "Bank of the Year 2006" awarded by the Arabian Business Magazine and "Best Islamic Real Estate Finance House" awarded by Euromoney.

© Press Release 2008