Global Finance, a prestigious international financial magazine, has ranked NBAD for the fifth consecutive year among its ‘World’s 50 Safest Banks’.
NBAD remains the highest ranked Middle East bank in the list.
Global Finance’s annual ranking of ‘World’s 50 Safest Banks’ is a recognized and trusted standard of creditworthiness for the entire financial world.
“The continuous inclusion of NBAD among the world’s 50 safest banks reflects our disciplined strategy and ongoing focus on long term, sustainable growth,” says Alex Thursby, group CEO of NBAD.
“NBAD’s continued strong credit ratings complemented by its ranking among the World’s 50 Safest Banks are an invaluable asset that will serve our ambitious growth plans, including our strategy to be a leading player in the West-East Corridor.”
Global Finance selects banks for this list through an evaluation of long-term credit ratings — from Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch — and total assets of the 500 largest banks worldwide.
“This ranking offers companies an objective tool for evaluating the world’s banks, both globally and by region,” says Joseph D. Giarraputo, publisher of Global Finance.
Regarding the top safest banks in the Middle East, in which NBAD ranked highest, Giarraputo says: “Global Finance’s Safest Banks ranking provides an objective tool for benchmarking and analysis of regional banks.”
NBAD’s long term ratings are among the strongest combined ratings of any financial institution in the MENA region with ratings from Moody’s Aa3, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) A+, Fitch AA-, RAM (Malaysia) AAA, R&I’s (Japan) rating of A+, and ranked among the World’s 50 Safest Banks by Global Finance.
“NBAD has retained and strengthened its position in the league of the safest institutions in the world by virtue of the prudence exercised in its business conduct. During the recent global financial crisis, NBAD remained true to its principle of utilizing its strong balance sheet to support customers. NBAD’s financial strength has allowed us to continue doing business and expand throughout the crisis,” says Abdulla M. S. Abdul Raheem, deputy group CEO of NBAD.
NBAD safest bank in Middle East among world’s top 50
NBAD safest bank in Middle East among world’s top 50
LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat
LuLu Group has signed a landmark MoU with Sulalat Coffee during the 5th edition of World of Coffee Dubai trade show. This exclusive retail partnership is designed to enhance the specialty coffee offerings across LuLu Hypermarkets in Saudi Arabia, meeting the growing demand for premium coffee experiences within the region.
The agreement was signed by Mohamed Haris, director, Saudi Arabia, LuLu Group, and Abdulelah Al-Murqi, marketing director, Sulalat Coffee. Through this collaboration, LuLu Group will provide a dedicated platform for Sulalat’s specialty-grade beans, which are globally sourced and roasted in Riyadh. This initiative ensures that world-class coffee quality, previously reserved for niche aficionados, is now readily accessible to coffee lovers throughout the Kingdom.
By partnering with Sulalat Coffee, LuLu Group is integrating artisanal expertise with large-scale retail excellence. Sulalat has been a pioneer in the specialty coffee movement in the region, and this partnership allows LuLu to showcase unique varieties and professional-grade roasting. The collaboration reflects a shared vision to celebrate the thriving local coffee culture and deliver an unparalleled selection of premium products to everyday consumers.
In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, this partnership reinforces LuLu Group’s commitment to empowering homegrown brands and fostering economic diversification within the Kingdom. By providing a global stage for local excellence at events like World of Coffee Dubai, LuLu continues to support the growth of a vibrant private sector and a sustainable retail ecosystem.
As the premier platform for the industry, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 highlights the rapid growth and innovation within the regional coffee scene. With the event attracting more than 17,000 visitors and hundreds of global exhibitors, it provides a vital stage for industry leaders to connect.
