First Saudi sovereign sukuk ETF to launch in Hong Kong: HKEX CEO

Bonnie Chan, Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX)

The first Saudi sovereign sukuk exchange-traded fund (ETF) will list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchanges (HKEX) this year, as part of efforts to deepen investment links between financial markets in China and the Middle East, HKEX CEO Bonnie Chan said.

The launch follows a series of mutual initiatives, including the introduction of the world’s largest Saudi equity ETF in Hong Kong around 18 months ago, which has since surpassed HKD 10 billion in assets under management (approximately $1.28 billion), the CEO said at the Hong Kong Capital Markets Forum.

She also noted that two ETFs targeting the Hong Kong market have been listed on the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul), and that HKEX is preparing to open a representative office in Riyadh later this year to further strengthen cooperation with Gulf markets.

Chan highlighted that over the past two years, HKEX has developed new partnerships with financial, tourism, and trade institutions across the region — reflecting growing mutual interest in economic integration and expanding cross-border investment opportunities.

As a global financial hub, Hong Kong boasts the largest base of international investors in Asia, with a liquid and diverse market that connects China with the rest of the world, Chan noted, adding that this strategic position reinforces its role as a vital investment bridge with the Middle East.