QNB Group, a leading financial institution in Qatar and the MENA region, has achieved an increase in the value of its brand to $ 1.31 billion and was ranked 120 on the list of the world’s top 500 banking brands in 2013, according to an annual survey carried out by “Brand Finance” and published by “The Banker” magazine, an affiliate to the widely circulated Financial Times newspaper.
QNB brand was among the world’s top 500 banking brands for the second consecutive year, a further accolade to QNB Group’s prominent role and outstanding performance in the MENA region.
The ranking revealed that out of five MENA banking brands on the list, only QNB Group’s brand had achieved gains in its value.
QNB’s brand value rose to $ 1.31 billion in 2013, up from $ 1.26 billion in 2012.
The value assessment process of banking brands on Brand Finance’s ranking depends on strict standards, taking into account the bank’s size, geographical presence, global and regional reputation, and its brand’s classification.
QNB Group’s brand is classified as an AA brand.
This classification differs from ratings issued by credit rating agencies as Brand Finance classification represents the health and future growth potentials of the brand based on the brand’s value and other indicators.
In recognition of QNB Group’s distinguished performance, the Bank was listed among the world’s safest 50 banks.
Currently, QNB Group has expanded its international presence to 24 countries, while its branches, subsidiaries and associate companies employ over 8,800 staff, offering services through almost 400 branches and offices along with an ATM network that exceeds 800 machines.
QNB among top 500 banking brands
QNB among top 500 banking brands
PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc’s CISO500 program advances cyber leadership
The fifth edition of the CISO500 program ran from Feb. 8-12. Delivered in partnership between PwC Middle East and Sirar by stc, the program featured five intensive days of rich discussions and hands-on practical experiences, aimed at strengthening leadership capabilities in cybersecurity and keeping pace with rapid technological transformation.
The program is designed to develop the capabilities of executive cybersecurity leaders and enhance their strategic role in supporting organizations’ digital transformation. It equips participants to address contemporary challenges in the cyber landscape and expand their influence within decision-making ecosystems.
Yasser Al-Swailem, CEO of Sirar by stc, said that the program represents an important step toward strengthening the readiness of cyber leaders in the region. He noted that the CISO500 program is a fundamental pillar in the journey toward building a secure and trusted Saudi cyberspace aligned with national ambitions. He added that investing in national cybersecurity leadership is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for ensuring sustainable digital development. The program reflects a commitment to empowering national talent to lead the digital security landscape according to the highest global standards.
He further emphasized that such initiatives contribute to strengthening digital security ecosystems and enabling organizations to confidently and sustainably address future challenges.
Samer Omar, cybersecurity and digital trust leader at PwC Middle East, added: “CISO500 is a long-term investment in Saudi leadership. Over the past year, we’ve seen how bringing together senior Saudi cybersecurity professionals in a structured executive environment accelerates capability, builds confidence and deepens collaboration. As the program enters its second year, our focus remains on equipping Saudi CISOs with the strategic perspective and technical depth required to secure the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.”
The program addressed a range of advanced topics, including common cyber transformation pitfalls, mechanisms for securing enterprise digital transformation, and cybersecurity budgeting and financial governance. These topics enhanced leaders’ ability to translate cyber risks and security investments into financial indicators that support executive decision-making.
It also covered the latest technological developments, particularly artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, quantum computing, and the protection of critical and operational infrastructure. Emphasis was placed on the importance of security governance for AI technologies and strengthening enterprise-wide risk management perspectives associated with them.
The program adopted an interactive learning methodology combining strategic discussions, collaborative work, and creative practical exercises, contributing to a deeper understanding of concepts and enabling their translation into applicable organizational practices.
Abdullah Al-Asmari, global cybersecurity director at the Saudi Research and Media Group and one of the program participants, said that the experience added significant strategic and practical value: “The program provided a rich experience that strengthened the leadership perspective of cybersecurity, particularly in linking technical practices with strategic and financial dimensions within the organization. It also offered valuable space for exchanging expertise on emerging technologies such as AI and quantum computing, and the challenges of securing critical infrastructure. This experience enhances cyber leaders’ ability to adopt a more influential role in supporting digital transformation and enabling decision-making based on a comprehensive understanding of risk and value.”
He added that the program facilitated the exchange of insights on emerging challenges and strengthened the ability to align cybersecurity with institutional objectives and executive decision requirements.
Participants said that the program constituted a valuable professional and knowledge-driven experience that enhanced the readiness of cyber leaders to keep pace with rapid digital transformation, reinforcing cybersecurity’s role as a strategic enabler that supports innovation while preserving business trust, reliability, and sustainability.
