Al-Watani Strengthens Its Local and Global Banking Presence
National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), 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 introduction of automated safe deposit boxes for the first time in Kuwait.
Over more than seven decades, NBK has succeeded in building the largest overseas branch network among Kuwaiti banks, combining its strong local presence with a footprint in major financial and commercial hubs around the world. The bank’s network currently 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 NBK telephone service and its integrated digital channels, including “NBK Mobile” and “NBK Online.” This ecosystem provides comprehensive banking services to individuals, corporations, 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, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan. This network enables NBK 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). This is the bank’s fourth branch in the UAE, further enhancing the cross-border banking solutions offered by NBK and supporting economic ties between Kuwait and the region.
In a move reflecting its commitment to innovation, NBK became the first bank to introduce Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) services for 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 allows customers to receive immediate support to complete their banking transactions, providing an experience that combines convenience, flexibility, and personalized service.
As part of its digital transformation approach and enhancing the customer experience, NBK launched the first-of-its-kind automated safe deposit box service in Kuwait. This service enables customers to securely access their valuable items around the clock without the need for staff intervention.
The service relies on a smart automated system that allows 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 NBK’s legacy of trust with the latest banking technologies.
Commenting on this, Ali Al-Mulla, First Vice President – Branch Network at National 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 proposed by “Al Etihad” to enhance its customers’ banking experience wherever they are—such as launching the first interactive ATM for customer service in London, and introducing automated safe deposit boxes 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.
