With 57 member countries across four continents and over $190 billion in cumulative commitments since its inception in 1975, the Islamic Development Bank continues its mission to support inclusive and sustainable growth. The 51st session of its Annual Meeting opened with a formal ceremony, bringing together policymakers, partners, and development stakeholders to discuss the economic and social priorities of member countries.
Held under the high patronage of Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, the 51st Annual Meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Group will take place from June 16 to 19, 2026, in Baku. Established in 1975 and headquartered in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the institution now comprises 57 member countries representing over 1.5 billion people. Over the years, it has established itself as one of the leading players in development finance and Islamic finance worldwide.
“I remember very well 2010 when we were the host country for the first time and that annual meeting gave a strong boost to our partnership with the group and also to the reforms Azerbaijan was implementing in order to diversify economy, conduct reforms and reduce dependence on the energy sector. “
Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic – Azerbaijan
The Islamic Development Bank Group’s financial momentum remains strong. In 2024, the institution approved $13.2 billion in new financing, a 12.3% increase compared to the previous year. This is in addition to the $7.3 billion mobilized by the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation. Access to water accounted for $2.1 billion of investments, while the energy and education sectors received $924 million and $330 million respectively.
“Our cooperation has flourished with the Islamic Development Bank Group approving approximately $1.8 billion for 84 projects in infrastructure, energy, agriculture and social services.“
Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, Chairman of IsDB – Saudi Arabia
As development financing challenges multiply, the Islamic Development Bank Group intends to consolidate its role as a strategic partner to its 57 member countries. Through its 2026-2035 strategic framework, the institution aims to strengthen its work in support of infrastructure, climate, the private sector, and Innovation, with the ambition of sustainably supporting the economic and social transformation of its member countries.
