Bond Step Down Protection Sukuk Islamic Coupon Decrease 2026

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Bond Step Down Protection Sukuk Islamic Coupon Decrease 2026

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Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Introduction

The global Islamic finance market has been witnessing substantial growth, with the sukuk (Islamic bond) market gaining significant traction. As of 2023, the global sukuk market is estimated to be valued at approximately $600 billion, reflecting an increase of 10% year-on-year. This growth is largely driven by emerging economies and increased demand for Sharia-compliant investment options. The trend of bond step-down protection within sukuk structures is particularly noteworthy, as it allows issuers to offer decreasing coupon rates while still providing investors with a level of protection against interest rate fluctuations. This report analyzes the key players and performances in the bond step-down protection sukuk market as we look toward 2026.

Top 20 Bond Step Down Protection Sukuk Islamic Coupon Decrease 2026

1. Malaysia

Malaysia is a frontrunner in the sukuk market with a market share of approximately 50% of the global sukuk issuance. In 2022, Malaysia issued over $40 billion in sukuk, reflecting strong demand for Islamic finance instruments.

2. Saudi Arabia

As one of the largest issuers of sukuk, Saudi Arabia’s market saw an increase in sukuk issuance to $30 billion in 2022. The government’s Vision 2030 initiative is driving the expansion of its Islamic finance sector.

3. UAE

The UAE has been a key player in the sukuk market, accounting for about 20% of global issuances. In 2022, the country raised $15 billion through various sukuk offerings, enhancing its position in the Islamic finance landscape.

4. Indonesia

Indonesia has emerged as a significant issuer with its sukuk market reaching $22 billion in 2023. The government’s focus on infrastructure financing through sukuk has been instrumental in this growth.

5. Turkey

Turkey’s sukuk market is valued at approximately $8 billion as of 2023. The country is increasingly utilizing sukuk for public financing and has seen a steady rise in demand for Sharia-compliant options.

6. Pakistan

Pakistan’s sukuk market has expanded to $5 billion, driven by government initiatives to promote Islamic banking. The country’s recent issuance of $1 billion sukuk received strong investor interest.

7. Bahrain

Bahrain remains a pivotal hub for Islamic finance in the GCC, with sukuk issuances totaling around $9 billion in 2022. The country has a well-established regulatory framework supporting sukuk transactions.

8. Qatar

Qatar’s sukuk market is growing, with recent issuances reaching $12 billion. The government has been proactive in using sukuk to finance major infrastructure projects, enhancing its appeal to investors.

9. Egypt

Egypt’s sukuk market is on the rise, with recent issuances estimated at $3 billion. The government aims to diversify its funding sources through Islamic financial instruments, attracting both local and foreign investors.

10. Kuwait

Kuwait has a burgeoning sukuk market valued at approximately $4 billion, with growth driven by investments in real estate and infrastructure. The country’s regulatory framework supports the issuance of Islamic bonds.

11. Oman

Oman’s sukuk market is valued at around $2 billion. The government issued its first sukuk in 2018, and the issuance has steadily increased, reflecting a growing acceptance of Islamic finance.

12. Jordan

Jordan’s sukuk market has reached about $1 billion in 2022, with a focus on developing Islamic banking and finance. The government actively seeks to diversify funding sources through sukuk.

13. Nigeria

Nigeria’s sukuk market is gaining momentum, with issuances reaching $1.5 billion. The government has utilized sukuk for various developmental projects, increasing its appeal among investors seeking Sharia-compliant options.

14. South Africa

South Africa has seen its sukuk market grow to around $1 billion, primarily focusing on infrastructure and renewable energy financing. The country’s commitment to Islamic finance is evident in its recent sukuk issuances.

15. Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s sukuk market, valued at approximately $500 million, is experiencing growth as the government encourages Islamic banking. Recent initiatives aim to promote sukuk for infrastructure development.

16. Singapore

Singapore’s sukuk market is valued at around $3 billion, with the country striving to position itself as a leading hub for Islamic finance in Asia. The regulatory framework supports continuous growth in sukuk issuance.

17. Brunei

Brunei’s sukuk market is small but growing, with recent issuances totaling $600 million. The government is exploring more sukuk options to finance its national development plans.

18. Morocco

Morocco’s sukuk market is valued at approximately $1 billion. The government has been actively promoting Islamic finance, leading to increased interest in sukuk as a financing tool.

19. Lebanon

Lebanon’s sukuk market is still in its nascent stages, with a valuation of around $200 million. However, recent efforts to issue sukuk indicate a commitment to diversifying funding sources.

20. Afghanistan

Afghanistan has initiated discussions on sukuk issuance, with potential market interest around $100 million. This move is part of broader efforts to strengthen the financial system through Islamic finance.

Insights

The bond step-down protection sukuk market is poised for growth as more countries recognize the potential of Islamic finance to meet development needs. With an estimated market size of over $600 billion in 2023, the trend of decreasing coupon rates offers issuers a unique opportunity to attract investors while managing debt servicing costs. Furthermore, the demand for sukuk is likely to rise as emerging economies prioritize Sharia-compliant products, with projected annual growth rates of 8-10% leading up to 2026. With increasing infrastructure financing needs globally, sukuk will continue to play a vital role in economic development strategies.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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