With deep sorrow and grief, the Insurance Bureau mourns Dr. Mustafa Rajab, an insurance expert and a prominent figure in Iraqi insurance, and one of the founders of the General Arab Insurance Federation. He passed away after a long and distinguished career spanning decades, during which he provided distinguished services in the fields of insurance, law, and economic development. He contributed to establishing the foundations of institutional work in Iraq and several Arab countries.

Dr. Mustafa Rajab was born in Iraq and earned a doctorate in law from the University of Geneva, Switzerland, in 1958, after which he began his distinguished professional career. He served as a legal advisor to the Reconstruction Board in Iraq between 1958 and 1960, then founded the Iraqi General Reinsurance Company, assuming its general management and chairmanship of its board of directors between 1961 and 1980.

The late Dr. Rajab was distinguished by his prudent management and keenness to develop human resources. He personally supervised internal and external training programs, chaired the appointments committee, and focused on standards of competence, appearance, language, and general culture, making his company a model of professionalism and commitment.

His tenure witnessed a qualitative leap, as the Iraqi Reinsurance Company became the first Arab company to open an office in the London market in 1966, strengthening Iraq’s position in the global insurance market.

Dr. Rajab also held other senior positions, including:

General Manager of the Arab Reinsurance Company (1980-1983)

Chairman of the General Insurance Corporation in Iraq (1985-1987)

General Manager of Al Dhafra Insurance Company in Abu Dhabi (1991-2007)

At the regional and international levels, he contributed to the preparation of numerous draft economic laws and was a member of United Nations expert committees. He also served as a member of the Islamic Financial Services Board in Malaysia between 2006 and 2008.

With his passing, Iraq and the Arab world have lost one of the most prominent insurance pioneers and a leading figure in legal and economic thought. He leaves behind a rich legacy of accomplishments and a distinguished career that will remain a source of inspiration for future generations.

May God have mercy on Dr. Mustafa Rajab and grant his family and loved ones patience and solace.

To God we belong and to Him we shall return.

Insurance Bureau

Media and Communication

June 16, 2025