JEDDAH, 27 April 2008 — Global Finance, a reputable international magazine, has selected Samba Financial Group for the award of the best bank in Saudi Arabia for the third consecutive year.

Samba is placed in the list of best banks in the Middle East for 2008 in recognition of its excellent performance and its ability to maintain steady growth in banking and financial sectors.

Samba was picked for the award by editors of Global Finance after consulting bankers, corporate finance executives and analysts throughout the world, an official statement said.

“There were a host of top banking criteria, including assets, profitability, strategic relationships, customer services, competitive pricing in addition to innovative products and Samba demonstrated remarkable superiority in all criteria,” it added.

The announcement coincides with a series of global appreciation awards that confirm the leading role of Samba in the banking and investment sector in Saudi Arabia and the region.

However, this particular award is significant as it comes from an institution that enjoys great credibility.