NCB has a proud history of leadership in Islamic banking and finance, having pioneered the innovation of various tools and products that are now widely adopted. NCB launched its first pilot branch offering Islamic-only services in 1990.

In 2005, NCB made a commitment to convert its entire retail branch network to Islamic banking. NCB’s leadership in Islamic banking and finance, particularly since the time of this commitment, has been rewarded by a rapid growth in the Bank’s customer base and higher levels of customer loyalty.

In December 2006, after the successful conversion of the retail network to Shariah compliance, NCB established the Islamic Banking Development Group (IBDG). This was intended to become the centre of excellence for all of NCB’s Shariah-compliant offerings, and to support business units in achieving the Bank’s Islamic banking strategy by ensuring full Shariah compliance of their Islamic offerings.