Islamic banking in Bosnia: what to know about BBI

Many investors from the Gulf ask whether Bosnia has an Islamic bank. It does. Bosna Bank International, known as BBI, operates on Islamic finance principles and has branches across the country. Here is what is useful to know.

Who is BBI?

The bank was founded with capital from Islamic financial institutions in the Gulf and began operating in 2000 from its Sarajevo headquarters. It serves individuals and companies, and its products are overseen by a Shari’ah board. With its shareholders the bank hosts the Sarajevo Business Forum, held every year since 2010, which brings together investors from the region and the Gulf.

Is it right for your company?

• If Islamic banking matters to you, it is the clear choice in Bosnia.
• For day-to-day business the company’s current account receives the share capital and is used for salaries, taxes and customer payments.
• Other banks in Bosnia are conventional banks, and your company may hold accounts with more than one bank.

What to prepare to open a company account

Each bank sets its own list, so ask for it in writing before your appointment. Usually the company registration documents and tax number, the passports of the founder and director, and information on the company’s activity and source of funds are requested. If you are not in Bosnia, ask the bank directly whether it accepts opening through a power of attorney or requires you in person.

Practical tip

Open the account right after the company registration is complete, as most next steps (taxes, salaries, contracts) need an active account. Do not rely on fees or commissions copied from the internet; ask the bank for its current fee schedule.

See also company formation steps, company taxes in Bosnia and transferring money and paying for property.

Written in October 2026 from published sources. Laws and rates change — consult a licensed accountant before any decision.