Director, Economic Research and Statistics (ERS) Department, IsDB Institute (IsDBi)
Dr. Areef Suleman is the Director of the Economic Research and Statistics at the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he heads the team providing thought leadership in all matters related to economic policy, socio-economic research, statistics, and evidence-based analysis needed to support initiatives of the IsDB and its member countries. He has undertaken policy analyses and provided advice on economic and industrial policy across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Areef also holds leadership roles on multiple boards, committees, and global task forces. He is currently serving on the Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd., Board of Directors of the United Bank of Albania, Islami Bank Foundation, Islami Bank Securities Ltd., and PARIS21. Prior to joining the IsDB, Areef functioned as the CEO of one of the most successful innovation funds in South Africa, managing the strategy, planning, and implementation thereof. Areef holds a Ph.D. in Economics along with a Master’s in Business Leadership.
