Barclays launches retail banking in the UAE

Barclays Bank PLC, a major global financial services provider, today announced the launch of its retail banking services in UAE. Barclays aims to reinvent retail banking in the UAE, giving customers choice, great service and more control over their finances. Barclays has operated in the UAE for over thirty years and is now expanding in the Emirates as part of its strategy to increase its exposure to attractive emerging markets and the reach of its retail banking service. The bank launched its UAE mortgage business last year, breaking the mould with its Mini-driving sales team. Customers in the UAE are being offered new products that make it easier to bank with Barclays. Using technology and an innovative mobile sales force, Barclays will take its banking services to its customers in the UAE instead of the customer coming to the bank. This new approach coincides with the launch of Barclaycard, current and savings accounts, NRI banking and personal loans Barclaycard will launch a range of credit cards that, for the first time in the UAE, allow customers to choose what they pay, what they get and what reward they earn on their credit card. The current accounts and savings will offer a range of new products offering flexibility and outstanding customer service where customers can walk into a Barclays centre and walk out 15 minutes later with a debit card, cheque book and full welcome pack. Personal loans from Barclays offer longer repayment terms to keep monthly payments low and a flexible approach to assessing applications which takes into account a customer's length of time in the UAE, not just with their current employer. The loan is even offered to individuals who have recently moved into Dubai and/or started a new job. The bank is expanding its operations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with two offices currently operating and a service centre opening in June. By the end of the year, Barclays network will include two branches, three service centres and an ATM network. The use of technology and an innovative mobile sales force will also make it easier for customers: Barclays will bring banking to them. Source