Al Ahli's profits jump to 37.1 million dinars in the first half of 2026

The Kuwait National Bank Group announced its strong financial results for the first half of 2026, achieving growth across its key financial indicators. Net profits reached KD 37.1 million, representing a 17% increase compared to the first half of 2025.

These results reflect the Group’s continued execution of its strategic priorities, disciplined balance sheet management, and flexible business model, which enabled Kuwait National Bank to deliver robust growth and exceptional profitability despite growing geopolitical and economic uncertainty in the region.

The Group further strengthened its profitability, with the return on equity rising to 9.98% and earnings per share growing to 12 filsers. This improvement was supported by disciplined cost management and a sustained focus on operational efficiency, resulting in a cost-to-income ratio of 43.1%, an improvement over the previous year’s levels.

Meanwhile, operating income increased by 10% to KD 119.22 million, while operating profits rose by 8% to KD 67.85 million. The loan and advance portfolio stood at KD 4.92 billion, reflecting a 4.40% growth during the first half of 2026. Total customer deposits reached KD 4.33 billion, and total assets grew by 1.2% to KD 7.27 billion.

Asset quality remained among the strongest in the sector, with the non-performing loans ratio holding steady at a low of 1.25%. The provision coverage ratio stood at 340%, underscoring the Group’s robust risk management framework and conservative credit granting approach.

In parallel, the Group maintained a strong capital position, with a capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 18.03%. Shareholders’ equity increased by 9.80% to KD 697.56 million.

Commenting on the results, Talal Mohammad Reza Bahbahani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kuwait National Bank Group, expressed his satisfaction with the financial performance achieved in the first half of 2026, which clearly reflects the Group’s success in maintaining a sustainable growth trajectory and its high capacity to keep pace with rapid regional and global developments.

He added that the Group achieved balanced growth in its key financial indicators, driven by the expansion of its operational activities, a conservative approach to risk management, and the maintenance of asset quality. He noted that the results demonstrate the success of strategic plans and the Group’s ability to seize promising opportunities and enhance the added value provided to shareholders and all stakeholders.

Bahbahani emphasized that continuous investment in comprehensive digital transformation and the adoption of artificial intelligence technologies in operations have directly contributed to improving operational efficiency. He pointed out that the first half saw the launch of several new solutions, including ChatGPT Enterprise, Microsoft Copilot, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA), all aimed at delivering a distinguished banking experience that meets customer expectations. Additionally, the Group developed further solutions within its mobile banking app, aligning with industry developments to boost productivity and enhance the banking experience across various customer segments. He noted that the coming period will witness the introduction of additional services to strengthen the bank’s competitive position in the local market.

Success of the Plans

For his part, Gilles Jan van der Toel, Chief Executive Officer of Al Ahli Kuwaiti Bank Group, stated that the Group’s performance during the first half of 2026 reflects the successful implementation of its strategic plans, highlighting the strength and diversification of its business model. The Group achieved double-digit profit growth, enhanced returns and capital base, maintained excellent asset quality, and delivered results exceeding internal targets despite a challenging regional operating environment.

He added, “We continued to achieve growth rates in key financial indicators, driven by strong operational performance and our customers’ sustained confidence. We also continued to execute our digital transformation vision by strengthening our technological infrastructure and launching innovative, instant payment solutions that meet our customers’ expectations and provide them with a seamless and secure banking experience.”

Al Fawaz Draws and ABK Build

He noted that the first half of 2026 witnessed the return of the Al Fawaz Account draws, with the execution of postponed draws and the announcement of winners receiving various cash prizes. Additionally, the account was relaunched with a new format, the draw structure was developed, a new semi-annual draw was added, and prize values were increased, reflecting Al Ahli Kuwaiti Bank’s commitment to enhancing customer trust and encouraging savings.

He further stated that the bank launched the ABK Build platform during the first half of 2026, the first of its kind in the local market, to provide housing facilities for customers planning to build. The platform offers customers the opportunity to receive discounts, guidance, and support from the planning stage through to implementation, in collaboration with partners from various sectors.

Advancing Sustainability

Van der Toel emphasized that the bank is committed to embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability concepts as an integral part of its daily operations. This commitment is evident in the issuance of the sixth annual Sustainability Report, which confirms the adoption of the highest standards in this field and highlights progress across the Group’s various operational processes.

He clarified that the report was prepared in accordance with the latest Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and consistent with Kuwait Vision 2035.

Growth in the UAE and Egypt

Van der Toel pointed out that Al Ahli Kuwaiti Bank – United Arab Emirates obtained a license from the Abu Dhabi Real Estate Center as a trustee agent for real estate guarantee services, becoming the first Kuwaiti and Gulf bank to offer this service in Abu Dhabi. This achievement reflects the significant trust and distinguished position the bank enjoys in the UAE market.

He added that Al Ahli Kuwaiti Bank – Egypt continued to strengthen its branch network by opening a new branch inside East Hub Mall in the Madinaty East project in eastern Cairo, as part of its ambitious geographic expansion plans. He confirmed that the Group continues to leverage its diverse regional presence, with its operations in Egypt and the UAE positively contributing to profit growth and supporting its ability to achieve sustainable returns.

Employee Development

Van der Toel affirmed that the bank continues to develop its employees’ capabilities by organizing training programs in collaboration with specialized entities across various banking fields, and by enhancing benefits provided to its workforce, thereby contributing to attracting top talent. He added that the bank is committed to providing an inspiring work environment that boosts productivity and continuously elevates customer service.

Awards and High Ratings Talal Bahbahani stated that the Group maintained its high credit rating of A from Fitch and A2 from Moody’s, underscoring the strength of its financial position and its ability to withstand challenges. He added that the bank received numerous awards and recognitions for its excellence in digital services, the continuous development of its application, and the banking solutions it offers. He extended his gratitude to the Board of Directors, the executive management, and all employees for their efforts, and commended the support provided by regulatory authorities in Kuwait, Egypt, and the UAE, highlighting their commitment to developing the banking sector.

Social Responsibility

Gil Jan van der Toel clarified that the bank sponsored and supported various health, educational, sports, and humanitarian events and initiatives during the first half of the year as part of its social responsibility program. He added, “We continue to uphold our commitment to enhancing the protection of our customers’ data, considering it an integral part of our participation in the ‘Let’s Be Aware’ banking awareness campaign, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kuwait and the Kuwait Bankers Association. We also focused on developing the Customer Protection Guide, raising awareness of customers’ rights and obligations, introducing digital services, savings and investment options, and services for people with special needs, alongside disseminating educational content through our branches, website, and smart application.” Van der Toel concluded by reaffirming the bank’s ongoing commitment to the campaign, which contributes to spreading banking culture and enhancing financial awareness in society.

Key Indicators for the First Half of 2026

- Operating profits rose by 8% to KD 67.9 million.

- Return on equity improved to 9.98%.

- Earnings per share grew to 12 fils.

- The cost-to-income ratio improved to 43.1%.

- The non-performing loans ratio remained stable at 1.25%.

- The provision coverage ratio increased to 340%.

- The capital adequacy ratio reached 18.03%.

- Credit ratings of A from Fitch and A2 from Moody’s were maintained.