Dubai – Mubasher: Mashreq Bank has officially launched its full-service digital retail bank in Pakistan, marking the first full-scale international deployment of Mashreq’s digital banking platform outside the UAE.

Mashreq Bank Pakistan’s operations will be powered by advanced technology, seamless customer experience, and a strong commitment to responsible banking, according to a press release.

The financial institution seeks to reshape the Pakistani banking sector over the next five-10 years by driving digital transformation, promoting financial inclusion, and bolstering innovation and job creation, while promoting sustainable development.

Ahmed Abdelaal, Group CEO of Mashreq, commented: “The launch of our full services digital retail bank reflects our deep belief in the country’s digital future and a strong commitment to long-term investment, financial innovation, and inclusive growth.”

“And as we expand globally, Pakistan stands out as a key pillar in our vision to build a digitally empowered, interconnected global financial ecosystem,” he noted.

Mashreq aims to introduce its key propositions tailored for Pakistanis, which will include Mashreq NEO for individuals and Mashreq NEOBiz for SMEs, delivering a full-day mobile-first banking experience.

Customers will benefit from seamless onboarding, zero-fee ATM withdrawals, AI-driven risk controls,and  free debit cards, setting new benchmarks for digital banking in Pakistan.

Mashreq will also enable Overseas Pakistanis in the UAE to open bank accounts in Pakistan and remit funds seamlessly, further strengthening cross-border connectivity.

Through its operations, Mashreq aims to accelerate the country’s transition to a digitally inclusive, globally connected financial ecosystem.

Fernando Morillo, Chairman at Mashreq Bank Pakistan, indicated: “Our vision is to go beyond digital convenience and create an ecosystem where consumers, SMEs, and overseas Pakistanis are seamlessly connected to financial opportunities.”

Muhammad Hamayun Sajjad, CEO of Mashreq Bank Pakistan, highlighted: “Our goal is to bring world-class digital banking solutions tailored for Pakistan’s evolving needs, while creating opportunities for local talent and contributing to the country’s fintech ecosystem.”

Mashreq has already committed an overall $100 million by 2025 to support its Pakistan operations through the digital retail bank and its Global Capability Centre, Mashreq Global Network (MGN).

It has been actively investing in the country’s talent pool through MGN Pakistan, which employs over 415 professionals across technology, compliance, credit, HR, and customer experience, operating largely on a remote model.

Over the coming years, MGN plans to double its workforce, strengthening Pakistan’s role as a hub for scalable digital innovation.

In the first half (H1) of 2025, the DFM-listed lender logged 14% year-on-year (YoY) lower net profits after tax at AED 3.47 billion, compared to AED 4.05 billion.