This study explores how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) scores impact the financial performance of banks through Financial Technology (FinTech) innovations. By analyzing panel data from 52 Islamic and conventional banks in the Middle East between 2018 and 2022, the research finds that while FinTech development negatively affects financial performance, ESG scores and FinTech integration both contribute to reduced bank performance. The results indicate that FinTech alone does not significantly influence financial performance. The study advises Middle Eastern banks to enhance and expand their investments in FinTech as a means to boost financial performance. It also recommends that regulators and policymakers improve ESG scores to better support FinTech advancements in banking. This research sheds light on the less-studied intersection of FinTech and ESG, offering valuable insights that could shape future strategies and policies in these areas.