National Bank of Kuwait strengthens its local and global banking presence to be closer to its customers

Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK), the largest financial institution in Kuwait by market share and the first national bank in the Gulf Arab region, has reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to delivering world-class banking services to its clients wherever they are. In this context, the bank highlighted the expansion of its branch network both locally and internationally, alongside the launch of two innovative services that represent a qualitative addition to its trajectory: the first Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) for customer service in the UK capital, London, and the inaugural launch of Automated Safe Deposit Boxes in Kuwait.

For over seven decades, ABK has succeeded in building the largest international branch network among Kuwaiti banks, combining its strong local presence with a footprint in the world’s leading financial and commercial hubs. Today, the bank’s network comprises approximately 138 branches, subsidiaries, and representative offices across 13 countries on four continents, including seven countries in the Middle East region, reflecting its capacity to serve its clients wherever they are.

Inside Kuwait, the bank operates an extensive branch network supported by self-service branches and cash deposit machines, alongside the “ABK Phone” service and its integrated digital channels, including “ABK Mobile” and “ABK Online.” This ecosystem provides comprehensive banking services for individuals, corporate clients, and institutions, covering accounts, cards, loans, and transfers, as well as wealth management and investment services.

Internationally, the bank’s presence extends to key global centers such as London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Singapore, and Shanghai. Regionally, the bank maintains a strong presence through its branches in the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan. This network allows ABK clients to benefit from integrated banking services outside Kuwait, including card issuance, financial transfers, cash withdrawals, and account services.

As part of its expansion strategy and in continuation of its policy to strengthen its regional presence, the bank opened a new branch in November 2025 at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), its fourth branch in the UAE. This move enhances the cross-border banking solutions offered by ABK and supports economic ties between Kuwait and the region.

**Interactive Teller in London**

In a move reflecting its commitment to innovation, ABK became the first bank to offer Interactive Teller (ITM) services to its clients in London. This device combines the features of traditional ATMs with the ability to communicate directly via voice and video with bank staff.

This technology enables customers to receive immediate support to complete their banking transactions, providing an experience that combines convenience, flexibility, and personalized service. Using the Interactive Teller requires presenting a valid Kuwaiti civil ID to complete banking operations through the device.

**Automated Safe Deposit Boxes**

As part of its digital transformation approach and enhancing customer experience, ABK launched the Automated Safe Deposit Boxes service, the first of its kind in Kuwait. This service allows customers secure access to their valuables around the clock without the need for staff intervention.

The service relies on a smart automated system that enables customers to retrieve their boxes in private rooms through simple steps, ensuring the highest levels of privacy and confidentiality. The boxes are also designed using fire-resistant materials, providing optimal protection for valuables and important documents from various risks. This service combines ABK’s legacy of trust with the latest banking technologies.

Commenting on this, Ali Al-Mulla, First Vice President – Branch Network at Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait, said: “Whether the client is in Kuwait or at any location within our extensive international network, our goal remains constant: to provide world-class banking services that are available to our clients around the clock, secure, and seamless.”

Al-Mulla emphasized that the innovations introduced by ABK, which enhance its clients’ banking experience wherever they are, such as launching the first Interactive Teller for customer service in London and introducing the Automated Safe Deposit Boxes service for the first time in Kuwait, embody the bank’s vision of combining the strength and reach of its global network with the latest technological solutions.

It is worth noting that Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait was established in 1952 as the first national bank and the first joint-stock company in Kuwait and the Gulf region. Since then, it has succeeded over more than seven decades in consolidating its position as a leading financial institution, becoming known by its enduring slogan, “The bank you know and trust,” reflecting the confidence it has enjoyed and continues to enjoy from its clients across generations.

ABK is the largest financial institution in Kuwait by market share, offering a comprehensive range of innovative banking and investment services for individuals, corporations, and institutions. The group’s activities cover personal banking, private banking, corporate banking, investment banking, asset management, as well as Islamic banking through Boubyan Bank, alongside a wide international network extending across major global financial centers.

ABK maintains one of the highest credit ratings in the Middle East from global rating agencies such as Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch. It also possesses the largest international branch network among Kuwaiti banks, enhancing its ability to serve its clients efficiently both within Kuwait and abroad.