Banks in Kuwait

Publication Date :

28 Sep, 2023

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Table Of Contents

Overview of Banks in Kuwait

Presently, Kuwait is under the supervision of the Kuwait Central Bank with 11 local commercial banks, including 5 Islamic banks. In addition, there are various global MNCs (Multinational Corporations) operating in Kuwait, such as Citigroup, HSBC, etc. Furthermore, the Industrial Bank of Kuwait offers finance for industrial and agricultural-related projects. In addition, two specialized government-owned banks provide medium and long-term financing.

They focus on credit and savings bank facilities to their customers and ensure a smooth money supply in the economy. Best banks in Kuwait with their structured framework, top-tier banks, and unique Islamic finance offerings, play a critical role in supporting the country’s economic development and ensuring the financial well-being of its citizens.

Overview of Banks in Kuwait

Banks In Kuwait Explained

The banking sector in Kuwait plays a pivotal role in the nation’s financial stability and economic growth. Its significance is underpinned by a well-structured banking system, the presence of renowned banks, established international banks in Kuwait and unique features that contribute to Kuwait’s financial prowess.

Kuwait’s banking system is divided into two main categories: conventional banks and Islamic banks. This dual-banking model accommodates the diverse financial needs of both conventional and Sharia-compliant customers. The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) serves as the regulatory authority, ensuring the stability and integrity of the financial sector.

Unique Features

Islamic Finance: Kuwait’s Islamic banks adhere to Sharia principles, offering customers a wide array of Sharia-compliant products, including Murabaha, Takaful insurance, and Mudarabah investments.
Oil Wealth Management: Kuwait’s banks are well-versed in managing the nation’s substantial oil wealth, contributing to long-term financial stability.
Global Presence: Some Kuwaiti banks have expanded their operations internationally, fostering cross-border trade and investment.

Structure

The best banks in Kuwait can be shown with the help of the following diagram:

source: https://www.capstandards.com

List of Top 10 Banks

Let us understand the unique culmination of domestic, Islamic and international banks in Kuwait through the list below.

National Bank of Kuwait
Kuwait Finance House (KFH)
Burgan Bank
Gulf Bank
Commercial Bank of Kuwait
AL Ahli Bank (ABK)
Industrial Bank of Kuwait
Kuwait International Bank
Boubyan Bank
Ahli United Bank Kuwait

Let's explain each of these banks in detail -

#1. National Bank of Kuwait

It was established in 1952 as the first local bank and the first shareholding company in the Persian Gulf region, with its headquarters in Kuwait City. The various services offered are:

Consumer & Private Banking
Investment Banking
Asset Management
Islamic Banking
International Centre

In 2020, the bank reported total assets of about 99 billion U.S. dollars and a net profit of $812.3 million.

#2. Kuwait Finance House (KFH)

This institution was established in 1977 in Kuwait as the first operating bank as per the Islamic Sharia (laws according to Islamic tradition). It is listed on the stock exchange of Kuwait with a market capitalization of $8.2 billion in 2016. It also manages total assets of $55.52 billion and deposits of $34.97 billion. KFH offers products and services in Banking, Real Estate, Trade Finance, Investment Portfolios, and other ancillary services.

In the 1980s, KFH went through multi-activity international expansion with independent banks in Turkey, Bahrain, and Malaysia. Additionally, it has stakes in other Islamic banks with investment activities in the U.S., Europe, Southeast Asia, and Middle Eastern regions.

#3. Burgan Bank

This bank was established in 1977 as a subsidiary of Kuwait projects Company holdings with a network of 24 branches and more than100 ATM’s. It operates the following segments:

Corporate Banking
Private Banking
Retail banking
Treasury and Investment Banking

In 2020, the annual revenue of Burgan Bank was $693.29 million, with a net profit of USD 10 million.

#4. Gulf Bank

Established in 1960, Gulf Bank is one of the top banks of Kuwait, offering services of Consumer Banking, Wholesale Banking, Treasury, and Financial Services. It is ranked 'A' by leading credit rating agencies worldwide. The bank has its headquarters in Safat, managing a network of 56 branches around the country.

In 2020, it recorded a net profit of KD 12 million with a significant improvement in net interest incomes. The bank also enjoys a strong capital adequacy ratio of 16.59%. Additionally, it is strongly committed to its corporate social responsibility program through which it empowers society and promotes the heritage and culture of Kuwait.

#5. Commercial Bank of Kuwait

It is the second oldest bank established in June 1960. The primary focus of the bank is towards retail and commercial project financing. In addition, it offers regular banking services such as loans and deposits and card facilities to improvise digital banking across the country.

It has emerged as a lead financer towards power, construction, and critical infrastructure projects in Kuwait. The aim is to maximize shareholders' funds, enlarge its customer base while also balancing out its policies to serve the community in which it operates. In 2020, it recorded a net profit of 592 million Kuwaiti dinars.

#6. AL Ahli Bank (ABK)

Founded in 1967 and located in Kuwait City, ABK is an established Retail and Commercial bank with multiple branches spread across the Middle East. In addition to the regular banking services, they also offer:

NRI services
Investment Management
Mutual Funds
Leasing Services
Treasury

It recorded a Net profit of $153 million for 2016 and Total Assets of $13 billion.

#7. Industrial Bank of Kuwait

It was established in 1973 in Kuwait through the Ministry of Finance combined with the Central Bank of Kuwait and other large local industrial firms with a primary objective to blossom the local industries. The headquarters are in Al-Sharq and offer conventional and Islamic loans/credit facilities to the industrial sectors and Islamic asset management services.

They also specialize in Portfolio and Fund management and conventional and Islamic investments made in various sectors. In 2019, it recorded a net profit of KWD 8.8 million and total assets of KWD 685 million. In addition, they provide medium and long-term financing for the establishment, expansion, and modernization of industrial units in the country. It also offers a full range of commercial banking and treasury products to meet the working capital needs of its industrial customers.

#8. Kuwait International Bank

An Islamic bank in Kuwait was established in 1973 and is a specialized bank regulated by the Central Bank of Kuwait and listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange. The bank offers several banking services including direct investments and credit cards. It operates various segments such as:

Retail Banking
Commercial and International
Fund Management
Institutional Banking
Investment Management
Islamic Banking services for Corporate Customers

For 2016, the bank recorded a net profit of $60 million.

#9. Boubyan Bank

It is a Kuwait Islamic bank established in 2004 with approximately $700 million paid-up capital. One of the emerging markets in Kuwait, this bank provides a variety of services to individuals and corporate customers. The main activities include accepting deposits, trading in real estate, and establishing investment funds and other kinds of Islamic Transactions:

Mudaraba
Investment Agency Contract
Leasing
Murabaha
Islamic Asset management
Direct investment in various sectors

With an employee strength of around 250, the bank recorded a net income of KWD 34.42 million.

#10. Ahli United Bank Kuwait

This bank is a traditional unit founded in 1971 operating in the following segments:

Retail Banking
Corporate Banking
Treasury & Investment
Investment Funds

The bank manages 110 branches across the Middle East and the United Kingdom. The net profit for 2016 was $14.26 billion and was also declared as the second safest Islamic bank in Kuwait, with its headquarters in Safat, Kuwait City. Additionally, it also offers fund management and Life Insurance Services.

Careers

The best banks in Kuwait offers promising career prospects for individuals aspiring to build a successful and rewarding career in finance. Here's a closer look at the enticing opportunities it presents:

Diverse Roles: Kuwait's banking sector provides a wide spectrum of job roles, catering to various skill sets and interests. From retail banking to investment banking, risk management, compliance, and fintech, there's a role to suit every career path.
Competitive Compensation: Banking careers in Kuwait often come with competitive compensation packages, including attractive salaries, performance bonuses, and benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans.
Professional Growth: The sector places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development. Banks in Kuwait frequently invest in training and skill enhancement programs, enabling employees to stay updated with industry trends and regulations.
Stability: Kuwait's banking sector enjoys relative stability due to prudent regulation by the Central Bank and the country's oil wealth. This stability provides a secure work environment for professionals.
Networking Opportunities: Working in the Kuwaiti banking sector opens doors to extensive networking opportunities. Interacting with clients, colleagues, and industry peers can be invaluable for career progression.
Global Exposure: Some Kuwaiti banks have international operations, offering employees the chance to work in diverse global locations and gain international exposure.
Islamic Finance Expertise: Kuwait's Islamic banks provide a niche but growing field within the banking sector, creating opportunities for those with expertise in Sharia-compliant finance.