Al-Watani strengthens its local and global presence to be closer to its clients across four continents
- Ali Al-Mulla:
- We are committed to providing our customers with a safe, seamless, and accessible global banking experience around the clock.
- We launched the first Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) in London and introduced automated safe deposit boxes locally for the first time.
- The new services embody Al-Kuwait National Bank’s vision of combining the strength of its global network with the latest technological solutions.
Al-Kuwait National Bank (KNB), 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 customers 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 journey: the first Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) for customer service in the UK capital, London, and the introduction of automated safe deposit boxes in Kuwait for the first time.
Over more than seven decades, KNB has succeeded in building the largest network of overseas branches among Kuwaiti banks, combining its strong local presence with its reach in major financial and commercial centers worldwide. 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 ability to serve its customers wherever they are.
Inside Kuwait, the bank operates an extensive branch network supported by self-service branches and cash deposit machines, alongside the KNB Call Center and its integrated digital channels, including “KNB Mobile” and “KNB 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 hubs 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 enables KNB customers 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 KNB and supporting economic ties between Kuwait and the region.
In a move reflecting its commitment to innovation, KNB became the first bank to offer Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) services to its customers 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, KNB launched the automated safe deposit box service, the first of its kind in Kuwait, enabling 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 following simple steps, while 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 National Bank’s legacy of trust with the latest banking technologies.
Commenting on this, Ali Al-Mulla, First Vice President – Branch Network, said: “Whether the customer 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 customers around the clock, secure, and seamless.”
Al-Mulla emphasized that the innovations introduced by National Bank, such as launching the first interactive customer service ATM in London and introducing the automated safe deposit box 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.
Founded in 1952, National Bank was the first national bank and the first joint-stock company in Kuwait and the Gulf region. Since then, it has successfully consolidated its position as a leading financial institution over more than seven decades, becoming known for its enduring slogan, “The bank you know and trust,” reflecting the confidence it has enjoyed and continues to enjoy from its customers across generations.
Largest financial institution in Kuwait by market share
National Bank 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 operations cover personal banking, private banking, corporate banking, investment banking, asset management, as well as Islamic banking through Boubyan Bank, alongside an extensive international network spanning major global financial centers.
National Bank 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 operates the largest overseas branch network among Kuwaiti banks, enhancing its ability to serve its customers efficiently both within Kuwait and abroad.
