NBAD Bank Introduction
National Bank of Abu Dhabi is one of the oldest and most prominent financial institutions in the United Arab Emirates. It was founded in 1968 during the rapid economic transformation of Abu Dhabi, shortly before the creation of the UAE Federation in 1971. NBAD, under the leadership of the visionary Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan was created to meet the financial requirements of an emerging nation.
Facts about NBAD
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | National Bank of Abu Dhabi |
| Found | 1968 |
| Found | Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan |
| Headquarters | Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates |
| Main Services | Retail, corporate, Islamic and investment banking |
| Merger Year | 2017 |
| Merged into | First Abu Dhabi Bank |
| Legacy Tagline | “Banking on the Future: |
Modernization and Recognition 2000-2016
NBAD began the millennium with a strong and innovative banking sector in the area.
Global Recognition
NBAD was recognized for its corporate governance and financial strength. Global Finance Magazine consistently placed it among the World’s Top 50 Safest banks. Moody’s (AA-), Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch all gave it a credit rating of AA. This reflected the strong capital position as well as government support.
Focus on Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility
NBAD has introduced a number of corporate social initiatives including youth development and environmental sustainability projects. The company financed green energy projects and issued the first ever green bond in the area.
Landmark Merger between First Gulf Bank and NBAD
Background to the Merger
Boards of NBAD (National Bank of Abu Dhabi) and First Gulf Bank approved the merger in July 2016. This would have created the biggest bank in the United Arab Emirates and among the strongest in the Middle East. This merger is part of UAE’s larger vision to consolidate financial institutions, and improve the competitiveness of its national economy.
Merger Objectives
Merger was primarily motivated by:
- Create a strong balance sheet in order to be competitive internationally.
- Supporting UAE Vision 2030 which stresses sustainable economic growth.
- Expanding Investment Opportunities for UAE Customers and Global Clients
- FGB and NBAD combine their strengths in corporate banking.
Before Merger: Financial Strength Review
| Year | Total Assets in AED (Billions) | Net Profit (AED Billion) | Branches | Employees |
| 2000 | 80 | 2.5 | 60 | 3,000 |
| 2005 | 125 | 3.2 | 90 | 4,200 |
| 2010 | 190 | 3.5 | 120 | 5,600 |
| 2016 | 400+ | 5.3 | 150+ | 6,700 |
Merger Completion
First Abu Dhabi Bank was officially formed in April 2017. NBAD holders received 0.75 FAB share for every NBAD held while FGB owners received 1 FAB share.
Formation of First Abu Dhabi Bank
FAB has emerged as an institution that combines the best of both legacy banks.
Scope and Scale
FAB’s assets at the time of its formation exceeded AED 670 Billion (approximately US 180 Billion). The bank became the UAE’s largest, with millions of clients on five continents.
Brand Identity
Its slogan, “Grow stronger”, symbolized unity, ambition and progress. The new bank retained NBAD’s institutional banking focus while strengthening the retail and digital operations that FGB inherited.
Transition of Customer
NBAD’s customers have experienced a smooth transition.
- FAB is the new name for online banking, credit cards and loans.
- The account numbers and deposit amounts were automatically transferred.
- Branches and ATMs continue to operate with improved digital tools.
NBAD Banking Services and Innovations
Retail Banking Services
NBAD offers a complete suite of banking services for individuals and families.
Account Services
- Accounts with current and savings benefits.
- Fixed Deposits with Competitive Interest Rates
- Employees in the public and private sectors can keep track of their salaries.
Personal Loans and Cards
- Personal loans at affordable rates for UAE citizens and foreigners.
- Homebuyers can get mortgage financing.
- Travel insurance and cashback credit cards are available.
Digital Banking Features
NBAD was the first to offer mobile and Internet banking services in the UAE. Customers were able to:
- Instantly check your balance and send funds.
- Online bill payment (DEWA Etisalat Salik)
- Call centers and chatbots provide 24/7 support.
Corporate and Investment Banking
NBAD dominated the corporate financing sector by offering services to businesses and governments.
Project Finance and Trade Finance
- Long-term financing for the energy sector, transportation, and real estate.
- Letters of credit and guarantees support international trade and SMEs.
- Partnerships with multi-national corporations facilitate global investment.
Treasury and Investment Solutions
- Managed Foreign Exchange Transactions and Interest Rate Derivatives
- Offer wealth management services and portfolio advice to institutional investors.
- NBAD Securities was launched, which allows stock and bond trading.
Islamic Banking Solutions
The bank offered a wide range of financial services that were Sharia-compliant, such as:
- Murabaha (cost-plus financing)
- Ijarah (leasing)
- Sukuk (Islamic bonds)
The division offered ethical investments aligned with Islamic principles.
International Banking and Global Footprint
NBAD’s global presence is a key element of its identity, as a link between the Middle East & the rest of the world.
Offices Region and Globally
In 2016, NBAD was active in 18 different countries including:
- MENA Region: Egypt, Oman, Sudan, Kuwait.
- Europe: France and the United Kingdom
- North America: United States
- Asia: Hong Kong and Malaysia
Cross-Border Trade Support
NBAD’s global network allowed UAE-based companies to carry out international transactions in a safe, efficient and secure manner. The trade finance department provided importers and exporters with tools for risk management, currency hedging and logistic financing.
NBAD Reputation in the World
Presence of the bank in major financial centers boosted UAE’s reputation as an international investment destination. The bank’s presence in key financial hubs helped to enhance the UAE’s image as a global investment destination.
UAE’s Economic Development
National Contribution
NBAD has a close relationship with the UAE Government, which is instrumental to the growth of the country’s economy and infrastructure.
Financing Development Projects
Bank-funded major projects including:
- Roads, schools, and hospitals are being constructed.
- Expanding power plants and desalination installations.
- Investments in environmental and renewable energy initiatives.
Collaborating with National Entities
NBAD has partnered with ADNOC and Mubadala Investment Company to provide tailored financing solutions for projects in the country.
UAE Vision 2030
NBAD has supported Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 which is a plan to diversify income streams beyond oil. The involvement of NBAD in financial and industrial projects has helped modernize and stabilize the economy
Empowers businesses and entrepreneurs
NBAD recognizes the importance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to the UAE economy.
SME Financing Programs
- Easy access to working capital and credit.
- Offer business advice to startups.
- Khalifa Fund has partnered with us to help Emirati entrepreneurs.
Innovation, Financial Inclusion
NBAD encourages innovation through the support of digital startups, and by promoting cashless payments via advanced digital payment systems.
Women and Youth Empowerment
NBAD has promoted women in the finance industry and helped educate youth about financial literacy through training programs, scholarship and partnership.
Corporate Governance, Sustainability, and Risk Management
Corporate Governance Framework
NBAD has been recognized by the American Bar Association for their high standard of accountability and transparency.
Governance Structure
- A board of directors with an independent structure and specialized committees.
- Comply with UAE Central Bank Regulations and International Standards
- Internal audits are necessary to maintain ethical business practices.
Risk Management
NBAD maintains robust risk management systems
- Credit and Market Risks: Monitoring.
- Predictive analytics and stress testing are both important.
- Basel III requires that banks maintain high ratios of liquidity and capital.
Ethical banking practices
In addition to ensuring that customers were treated fairly, the bank also implemented anti-money laundering policies. This helped reinforce its reputation as an exemplary financial institution.
Sustainability Commitment & CSR
NBAD has integrated sustainability in its business strategy.
Green Finance Initiatives
- Solar and wind energy plants are among the projects that have been funded.
- Green bonds are issued to encourage environmentally-conscious investors.
Engagement in the Community
NBAD has launched several initiatives aimed at the community.
- Students can participate in the Global Investment Challenge of NBAD.
- Residents can attend financial literacy classes.
- Support to health and educational charities in the UAE
Social and Environmental Impact
NBAD has contributed to sustainable development by promoting well-being through its responsible investment and environmental policies.
Legacy & Impact After Merger
First Abu Dhabi Bank
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), following the merger, inherited NBAD’s legacy, its infrastructure and customers. This transition was the beginning of a brand new era of UAE banking.
Continued Excellence
FAB continued to uphold the principles of innovation, reliability and service quality that NBAD had established. FAB continued to provide support for government projects, sustainable finance, and international trade.
Expanding beyond the UAE
FAB’s expansion into Asia-Pacific, and Africa, reflects NBAD’s vision to become a financial leader in the world.
Digital Transformation
FAB has developed cutting-edge digital platforms inspired by NBAD’s technology foundation. AI-based financial planners, biometric authentication, and paperless banks are available to customers.
NBAD: Enduring Influence
Although NBAD is no longer a brand, the legacy of its corporate culture and community-focused focus lives on through FAB.
Contributions to Regional Banking Standards
NBAD set benchmarks in:
- Corporate Governance
- Islamic Finance
- Risk management
The standards are still influencing regional financial regulators and banks.
Symbol for Abu Dhabi’s Growing
NBAD is a powerful symbol for Abu Dhabi, which has evolved from an economy based on oil to one that’s diversified and a financial powerhouse. It represents vision, national pride, and progress.
Conclusion
National Bank of Abu Dhabi played an important role in shaping UAE’s economic and banking landscape. NBAD was a symbol of the UAE’s spirit of innovation and progress from its founding in 1968 until its transformation to First Abu Dhabi Bank in 2017.
NBAD’s enduring legacy is a cornerstone in the UAE’s economic history. It reminds us that visionary leadership can be combined with financial innovation and national unity to create institutions that will stand the test time.
Also Read Blog: Banking Guide List of Banks in Dubai Salaries and Account Opening
Unlinking FAB App Step-by-Step Guide
FAB iSave Account Explained High-Interest Zero-Fee Savings in UAE
Card Activation FAB Debit Card
FAQs
1. What was NBAD?
NBAD was one of the UAE’s first banks, founded in 1968 to support national development.
2. What happened to NBAD?
In 2017, NBAD merged with First Gulf Bank to form First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).
3. Why was NBAD important?
It financed major UAE infrastructure and supported economic diversification.
4. What services did NBAD offer?
Retail banking, corporate finance, Islamic banking, investment services, and digital banking.
5. What is NBAD’s legacy today?
Its banking standards and innovations continue under FAB, shaping modern UAE banking.
