Kuwait, 29 August 2026: Kuwait International Bank (KIB) announced a series of key achievements by its Retail Banking Department during the first half of 2026, reflecting the Bank’s continued investment in strengthening its digital infrastructure and customer-focused banking capabilities. Adopting the latest global approaches to product and service development and guided by market developments and emerging technologies, the Department introduced new services and enhanced digital channels to provide customers with faster, more accessible, and convenient ways to manage their finances. These accomplishments further reinforce KIB's position among Kuwait's leading banking institutions and reflect its continued commitment to delivering innovative banking products and services that enhance the customer experience. 

Commenting on the results, Nawaf Al-Khrayef, Deputy General Manager of Retail Banking at KIB, said: “At KIB, we are committed to continuing to advance our services and digital capabilities and to further integrating technological solutions into our operational infrastructure, in step with the rapid developments shaping the banking sector. As customers’ lifestyles and expectations continue to evolve, our responsibility is to translate those changes into practical solutions that offer greater ease, choice, and control over their financial needs.”

Al-Khrayef added: “Customer insights, together with the periodic market studies conducted by the Retail Banking Department, play an important role in shaping our products and services. By monitoring the latest industry trends and understanding the needs of different customer segments, we continue to introduce innovative solutions that deliver greater value and enrich the overall banking experience.”

Enhanced KIB Mobile capabilities and growing customer adoption

During the first six months of 2026, the number of bank accounts opened through the KIB Mobile application doubled compared with the corresponding period in 2025. Investment deposit openings completed through the app also increased twofold, reflecting the growing adoption of the Bank's digital services and the success of the newly introduced app features.

The Retail Banking Department expanded the application’s capabilities with instant credit card issuance against cash collateral, an enhanced user interface, a more streamlined and simplified onboarding journey, and upgraded features on the WAGE app for workers. The Bank also expanded its local and international transfer services, making it easier and more convenient for customers to complete digital transfers, while also launching an enhanced version of its Rewards Program that combines cashback and rewards under a unified digital platform.

The Bank’s transfer services also recorded notable activity during the period. WAMD processed 660,000 transactions, while Western Union and Fast Transfer activity reached KD 107,000 and KD 789,000, respectively.

Al-Khrayef highlighted that, by simplifying key processes and making a wider range of services available through customers’ smartphones, these additions have reduced the need for branch visits and enabled more banking requirements to be completed securely at any time.

Broader reach across Kuwait

As part of its efforts to make banking services available to more customers across all segments, KIB expanded its nationwide ATM network, reaching 141 machines during H1 2026, compared with 125 in the same period of 2025.

During the first half of 2026, KIB’s ATM network recorded an all-time high in transaction value, facilitating cash withdrawals worth KD 65 million and deposits totaling KD 23 million. This record performance highlights the growing importance of the Bank’s self-service infrastructure in providing customers with convenient access to essential banking transactions throughout Kuwait.

Al-Khrayef noted that expanding the Bank’s physical and electronic touchpoints forms part of an integrated approach to serving customers wherever they are, allowing them to select the channel that best suits their circumstances and preferences.

Round-the-clock customer support and meaningful social media engagement

KIB maintained its focus on providing responsive assistance across a diverse range of communication platforms. The Bank’s Contact Center received 152,000 calls during the first half of the year, representing an average of approximately 25,000 calls per month.

Dedicated voice-service interactions totaled 15,000, while ITM video calls reached 13,500, reflecting the efficiency and speed of these services

Customers can also communicate with the Bank through the Live Chat feature available on KIB Mobile and KIB Online through the official website, www.KIB.com.kw, in addition to the app’s video chat function and KIB’s WhatsApp service. Together, these platforms provide reliable access to information and support around the clock.

Meanwhile, KIB’s social media platforms generated approximately 15,000 engagements during H1 2026. This performance was supported by informative and value-driven content designed to explain the Bank’s products and services, promote financial knowledge, and share relevant insights concerning the banking industry.

The achievements recorded during the first half of 2026 reflect KIB's continued commitment to strengthening its digital infrastructure, expanding customer access to innovative banking services, and delivering solutions shaped by evolving customer needs. Through the ongoing development of its digital channels and banking capabilities, KIB remains dedicated to providing a seamless banking experience while strengthening its role as a trusted financial partner, in line with its main slogan, “Bank for Life.”