MANAMA: Ithmaar Bank, a Bahrain-based Islamic retail bank that owns and operates the largest Islamic retail banking network in the Kingdom, has commissioned two new branches.
The new branches, one in Seef Mall and the other in Arad, feature sophisticated, cutting-edge technology, including next-generation Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and other exciting new branch automation and customer service solutions. The two new branches are being commissioned as part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to customer-centric growth and to meeting and exceeding customer expectations.
“Ithmaar Bank is committed to becoming the retail bank of choice in Bahrain,” Ithmaar Bank Chief Executive Officer, Ahmed Abdul Rahim, said. “To do so, we listen closely to our customers’ demands and general feedback, then we work hard to ensure we deliver the best possible banking experience,” he said.
“Today, the majority of customers rely heavily on digital banking, and the two new branches were commissioned in response to customer feedback and needs, as they complement the Bank’s long-term focus on implementing its far-reaching, bank-wide digital initiatives,” said Abdul Rahim. “We continue to invest tremendous time, money and effort on developing our digital infrastructure and, as a result, almost all transactions can be completed entirely online,” he said.
The new Arad branch is located near the Muharraq Club petrol station, a key landmark in the area, and is scheduled to start serving customers in early August 2021. The new Seef Mall branch is located near Gate 10 of the popular mall, scheduled to start serving customers in early September 2021, and will be equipped with the digital banking facilities available for customers throughout the week. Ultimately, the two new branches will replace existing facilities with significantly better, more customer-focused offerings.
The new branches were designed to be the Bank’s new flagship branches, with a fresh, new look and feel, and sophisticated technology to ensure an enhanced customer experience. This includes using cutting-edge self-service technology to automate various services, including, for example, Instant Debit Card and eCard issuance, Account Statement and Certificate printing, as well as biometric enrolment.
With the commissioning of the two new branches, Ithmaar Bank is delivering on its key digital transformation initiatives and marking the start of a new era for the bank’s branch network. The next phase will include digitalising customer transactions to ensure a whole new digital experience for customers at Ithmaar Bank branches.
In June last year, Ithmaar Bank announced the opening of a new branch in Hamad Town, effectively relocating the Bank’s Al Hamalah branch to a new, better and more accessible location with ample parking facilities.
Ithmaar Bank’s retail banking network currently includes 14 branches and 39 ATM machines in strategic locations across the Kingdom.