Latest news with #SalahAl-Fulaij
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
NBK opens new branch at Abdullah Al-Salem University
Al-Wazzan: The newly opened branch delivers cutting-edge banking services and products designed to cater to the diverse financial needs of students NBK redefines the traditional branch experience to align with international standards Reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional banking services wherever its customers are, and in line with its strategy to maintain close proximity to them, National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) has inaugurated its new branch at Abdullah Al-Salem University, further strengthening its position as the bank with the most extensive branch network in Kuwait. The opening ceremony of the new branch was attended by Mr. Salah Al-Fulaij, CEO of NBK-Kuwait, Prof. Moudi A. Al-Humoud, the Founding Administrative Board, Chair of Abdullah Al-Salem University in Kuwait, and Mr. Mohammed Al-Othman, CEO, Consumer & Digital Banking Group at NBK, along with a number of officials from both the bank and the university. On this occasion, Mr. Mohammed Al-Wazzan, Head of Sales Force, Consumer and Digital Banking Group at NBK, emphasized that, as part of its social responsibility towards educational institutions, the youth community, and Kuwaiti civil society, NBK offers innovative banking services and products tailored to meet students' financial needs. He highlighted that the branch is equipped with state-of-the-art banking technologies and devices, ensuring that university students enjoy a seamless and comprehensive banking experience. He highlighted that the opening of the Abdullah Al-Salem University branch aligns with the bank's ongoing commitment to enhancing the banking experience for customers across all segments of society. This initiative is part of NBK's broader strategy to strengthen its leadership in the banking sector by expanding its branch network, introducing innovative banking solutions, and launching services that enable customers to complete their transactions seamlessly and efficiently, ensuring their convenience. He also underlined that NBK has redefined the concept of traditional branches through its new locations, including the Abdullah Al-Salem University branch, aligning them with international standards. These transformations encompass a distinctive branch design and advanced banking solutions that enhance customers' experience. Moreover, he noted that these changes reflect the bank's commitment to meeting customer expectations by leveraging multiple digital channels and cutting-edge analytics powered by AI to better understand and address their needs. Furthermore, he pointed out that NBK's extensive network of branches, ATMs, and Interactive Teller Machines (ITM) across Kuwait is seamlessly integrated with its advanced digital channels, ensuring customers enjoy a superior and comprehensive banking experience. This approach aligns with the bank's strategy to remain the closest to its customers, offering them unparalleled convenience and accessibility. With the inauguration of its new branch, NBK has expanded its extensive local network to 71 branches, further strengthening its position as the bank with the largest branch presence in Kuwait. Additionally, NBK continues to operate the country's most extensive network of ATMs. NBK recently entered into a cooperation agreement with Abdullah Al-Salem University, aimed at fostering the exchange of expertise across various fields. The agreement also includes supporting and sponsoring a wide range of activities and events organized by the university throughout the year. This partnership reflects NBK's commitment to strengthening collaborations with key institutions to support the development of ambitious national talent, as well as its ongoing efforts to empower youth and help them enhance their skills.
Arab Times
05-04-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Al-Fulaij Emphasized NBK's Financial Expertise and Strong Regional Presence in Driving Major Development Projects
KUWAIT CITY, Apr 5: Mr. Salah Al-Fulaij, Chief Executive Officer of National Bank of Kuwait - Kuwait, emphasized that despite global economic uncertainties—including oil price fluctuations, geopolitical tensions, and inflationary pressures—the bank remains resilient, leveraging its strong balance sheet, diversified revenue streams, and prudent risk management to navigate market volatility effectively, while maintaining resilience. In an interview with Global Finance, Al-Fulaij highlighted that regulatory reforms, both local and global, such as heightened standards for transparency, anti-money laundering, and cybersecurity, demand significant investments in compliance and technological upgrades. He also emphasized that NBK is leveraging digital tools to ensure operational efficiency and adhere to evolving standards. He added that Kuwait's ambitious sustainability goals also present both opportunities and challenges as scaling up green projects and aligning stakeholders on long-term ESG priorities require significant coordination. 'Another element we have to keep up with is the rapid pace of technological advancement and the need for continuous innovation. Customers increasingly demand seamless, secured, and personalized banking experiences, prompting us to expand our digital banking platforms, invest in fintech collaborations, and adopt emerging technologies,' Al-Fulaij said. He also highlighted that attracting and retaining skilled talent, especially in fields liketechnology and ESG, remains a persistent challenge across various industries. In this regard, NBK has established programs, such as NBK Academy and NBK Tech Academy, to equip local talents with the necessary skills and expertise. Reforms & Opportunities When asked about the opportunities arising from Kuwait's economic reforms, Al-Fulaij stated: 'Rreforms provide a pivotal platform to capitalize on transformative opportunities, particularly in digitalization, ESG efforts, and public-private partnerships (PPP)'. Furthermore, he statedthat the government's emphasis on smart infrastructure, fintech innovations, and regulatory enhancements, has created an enabling environment for NBK to accelerate its digital transformation journey. He further highlighted that the bank's investments in advanced digital banking solutions, automation, and cutting-edge analytics equip it to offer seamless, secure, and scalable financial initiatives not only elevate customer experiences but also enable SMEs to thrive, supporting the national agenda of fostering financial inclusion and private sector growth. 'NBK is also strategically positioned to play a leading role in PPPs, particularly in sectors like renewable energy, healthcare, and infrastructure. By leveraging our financial expertise and strong regional presence, we contribute to the successful execution of large-scale development projects that drive economic diversification,' Al-Fulaij added. On the ESG front, Al-Fulaij explained that Kuwait's reforms are opening doors for sustainable growth, indicating that NBK was the first bank in Kuwait to issue green bonds last year, a milestone that underscores the bank's leadership in sustainable finance and its deep commitment to supporting green financing and sustainable infrastructure projects. Moreover, he NBK continues to embed ESG considerations into its financing solutions, thus empowering clients to adoptsocially responsible investment strategies. Al-Fulaij emphasised that reforms aimed at enhancing entrepreneurship and innovation create new opportunities for NBK to expand its retail and wealth management services, explaining that by incorporating ESG into the Bank's product offerings, it empowers clients to make socially responsible financial decisions, aligning their investments with Kuwait's broader vision for sustainable development. Promising Sectors When asked about the sectors that have the biggest growth potential, Al-Fulaij responded: 'In line with Kuwait Vision 2035, NBK identifies high growth potential in renewable energy,technology, digital transformation, healthcare, logistics, and contracting'. He explained that with Kuwait prioritizing clean energy initiatives, including solar and wind projects, NBK actively supports this transition by offering green financing solutions and partnerships to reduce carbon emissions and promote energy efficiency. 'Investments in fintech, e-commerce, and smart infrastructure are unlocking opportunities across industries. NBK continues to lead by enhancing its digital banking offerings, enabling seamless financial services, and supporting tech-driven bank's digital initiatives include partnerships with FinTechs, cashless payment solutions, digital onboarding and the recent acquisition of a 51% stake in Kuwait's leading payment service provider, UPayments,' Al-Fulaij emphasized. Speaking of Kuwait's healthcare sector, Al-Fulaij noted that it was on the cusp of significant growth, referring toNBK's instrumental role in financing large-scale healthcare projects, including hospitals and specialized medical facilities. As for logistics services, Al-Fulaij highlighted Kuwait's strategic location at the crossroads of the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, underscoring the significant growth opportunities in transportation and warehousing. He pointed out that this is particularly evident with the focus on mega projects such as Mubarak Al Kabeer Port, the modernization of Shuwaikh and Shuaiba ports, and the expansion of Kuwait International Airport's new terminal. He noted that NBK has played a pivotal role as a key financial partner in supporting these projects, adding that their advancement is expected to have a positive impact on the contracting sector as well. Social Contributions In response to a question about the bank's social contributions over the past year, Al-Fulaij reaffirmed NBK's commitment to empowering future generations by supporting initiatives that foster innovation, skills development, and entrepreneurship among Kuwaiti youth. Highlighting the bank's key social initiatives, he stated: 'Bankee is a pioneering program that integrates financial literacy into the curriculum, equipping students in Kuwait with the necessary tools to make informed financial decisions and grasp fundamental financial concepts. Additionally, NBK partners with educational institutions to support specialized workshops focused on entrepreneurship.' He highlighted that the bank launched hackathons and mentorship programs, cultivating a culture of innovation and self-reliance. Moreover, for the fifth consecutive year, NBK sponsored the TAMAKAN Program, providingparticipants with specialized courses to enhance their career ongoing commitment reflects NBK's dedication to supporting young national talent and equipping them with the skills needed for future success. 'We are actively engaged towards women empowerment with our landmark program for women leadership, NBK Rise, which consists of various training modules to develop leadership, strategic communication, and interpersonal skills preparing women for higher leadership roles,' Al-Fulaij added. Al-Fulaij expressed NBK's pride with its ongoing commitments to the healthcare sector and most importantly its contributions to the 'NBK Children's Hospital' which has been recently witnessing unprecedented medical achievements in the area of stem cell transplant.
Zawya
28-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
NBK wraps up participation in KFAS innovation challenge
Al-Nasrallah: We prioritize collaboration with strategic partners to drive social impact and cultivate an inspiring environment for the next generation The program fosters a culture of innovation, supporting Kuwait's transition to a knowledge-based economy NBK remains steadfast in its commitment to community development, consistently striving to create an ecosystem that nurtures creativity and innovation The National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) team successfully concluded its participation in the Innovation Challenge Program, organized by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) in collaboration with IE Business School, Madrid. Spanning three months, the program commenced with an introduction to the fundamentals of creativity and innovation, followed by an in-depth focus on a real-world innovation project. The initiative also included a field visit to the IE Business School campus in Madrid, Spain, enriching the participants' experience. As part of the program, the NBK team presented their project, which focused on an innovative banking service. The project was reviewed and discussed with the bank's senior management, including Mr. Salah Al-Fulaij, CEO of NBK – Kuwait, Mr. Mohammed Al-Othman, CEO of Consumer and Digital Banking Group; Mr. Mohammad Al Kharafi COO - Head of Group Operations and Information Technology; Mr. Emad Al-Ablani General Manager, Head of Group Human Resources Mr. Faisal Al-Fulaij Head of Business Banking; and other esteemed executives from the bank. The program covered various key aspects, including the successful implementation of innovative initiatives, the innovative planning process, impact measurement, and the design of valuable propositions. Additionally, several workshops on innovation leadership were conducted. The program featured intense competition among participating teams, as participants spent three months engaged in training, education, and exploring strategies to drive meaningful change within their organizations by presenting innovative ideas. Launched by Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) in 2015, the program aims to cultivate innovative human capabilities within the private sector. It seeks to foster a culture of creativity and knowledge-driven growth, aligning with efforts to transition Kuwait's economy into a knowledge-based model. The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) Innovation Challenge Program stands out as one of the most prestigious executive education initiatives. Through collaboration with IE Business School in Madrid, a select group of companies engages in developing new initiatives and projects aimed at fostering a culture of innovation within their organizations. On this occasion, Maryam Al-Nasrallah, Talent Management Manager, Group Human Resources at National Bank of Kuwait, said: 'We strongly believe in the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. As such, we remain committed to launching and supporting pioneering initiatives across various fields and sectors while collaborating with state institutions and strategic partners to create a positive social impact and cultivate an inspiring environment for the next generation.' Al-Nasrallah further added: 'Our involvement in this pioneering program underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and knowledge. We are dedicated to encouraging young researchers to deliver innovative solutions that benefit both society and the economy. The bank's strategy is firmly rooted in innovation and continuous development, a commitment that has been demonstrated through our leadership in the banking sector, positioning us at the forefront both locally and regionally.' Al-Nasrallah emphasized that NBK will persist in its efforts to develop society and foster an environment that encourages creativity and innovation. This will be achieved through ongoing participation in various programs and initiatives designed to cultivate highly skilled national talent. He highlighted that Kuwaiti youth possess untapped potential and capabilities, and with the right guidance, they can contribute significantly to the sustainable development journey. Furthermore, She praised KFAS for its pivotal role in enhancing and promoting investment in technology and innovation. He emphasized the Foundation's commitment to learning from global experiences and utilizing leading professional and academic expertise from around the world. NBK places significant emphasis on the development of its human resources, recognizing them as the cornerstone of the bank's excellence and leadership. The bank offers top-tier specialized training programs that adhere to the highest international standards, ensuring that its professional talent is equipped to take on future leadership roles.
