Thimar You are our focus...

Issue 2 | July 2015 | Arab Bank for Investment & Foreign Trade

Design specially to meet

your lifestyle

Al Masraf new
Credit Cards

Our ATM network

is growing!

H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin

Mohammed Al Qasimi visits AL
MASRAF stand at National Career
Exhibition -Sharjah Launching the Islamic
Banking Services

1
you are our focus...

Personal Banking
Corporate Banking
Islamic Banking
Treasury and Investment

Comprehensive banking services for your needs

We offer a wide range of banking products which include your personal and commercial business, this is in
addition to the treasury and investment services.
Our vision is to become an innovative and preferred financial partner for all banking services in the region.
Currently we are operating through a network of branches across the UAE.

2
 FROM THE DESK OF CEO
In our commitment to provide the best services that meets the highest
international standards and best practices, Al Masraf remains fully
committed and steadfast in its efforts to hire the finest expertise
and high competencies for the banking and financial fieldthereby
reinforcing our vision to consolidate our position as the highly
preferred innovative and creative financial partner of choice for our
customers. We believe that human resources is the basic and most
important tributary of success and leadership and have placed high
priority in its development and activating the channels of effective
communication between staff in order to provide a sustainable
working environment that is able to keep up with rapid changes in the
banking sector. In this context, we would like to commend the great
efforts made by Al Masrafs working group from all sections and their
contributions, which have made significant impact on the growth
and consolidation of Al Masraf to become one of the leading banking
institutions in the region. We thank you for your dedication and wish
you all continued progress and success.

Faisal Galadari
Chief Executive Officer

INDEX
EDITORIAL TEAM
Ebrahim Al Zaabi
4 Al Masraf net profits up by 41 per cent
Bachar Dib

Ahmed Nagy
Al Masraf wins prestigious Straight Through Processing
Rejoy Koithara 7
STP Excellence Award from and Commerzbank AG

AL MASRAF shows support for Al Jazira Clubs sport

14
initiatives via AED 1-million cash donation

16 Interview with Mr. Charles Doghlass CBO of Al Masraf

3
ACHIEVEMENTS
AL MASRAF NET PROFITS UP BY 41 PER CENT
Arab Bank For Investment & Foreign Trade
has achieved a remarkable increase in its
net profit for 2014reflecting an increase
of more than 41 per cent and a 38 per cent
growth in its net lending portfolio. The
banks net loans and advances have gone
up from AED 5.3 billion to AED 7.3 billion.
Equally, the customer deposits have also
gone up from AED 6.23 billion to AED 8.73
billion. The overall assets growth is more
than 13 per cent, showing an increase,
from AED 12.66 billion to AED 14.33 billion.
The high increase in net lending has
resulted in a corresponding increase in
the interest income by more than 31 per
cent as compared to the previous year. Its
252m
2011 2012
Graph showing the net profit from 2011 to 2014
4
interest income has gone up from AED 269
million to AED 353 million. Al Masraf is a
predominant player in the trade finance
sector and its fee & commission income
is high at around 39 per cent. The banks
overall net profit has increased from AED
260 million to AED 366 million, achieving
a significant increase of 41 per cent. The
cost to income ratio is well maintained at
around 33 per cent.
Announcing the financial results,
Mohamed M Ben Yousef, the Chairman of
Al Masraf and also the General Manager
of the Libyan Foreign Bank, said,Al
Masrafs high results are due to the new
vision and strategy adopted by Al Masraf.
307m 260m
2013
With a major transformation journey, Al
Masraf is repositioning itself in the market
to achieve greater market recognition.
New investments are now being made to
strengthen the technological system and
operations platform. Our staff quality is our
core strength and continuous investments
are being made to further strengthen the
talent in Al Masraf.
Meanwhile, Faisal Hassan Galadari, Chief
Executive of Al Masraf, thanked the board
of directors for their continuous support
and guidance. Al Masraf is a dominant
player in the Corporate Business and Trade
Finance segments. An achievement of 39
per cent growth in lending and 41 per cent
increase in net profit, in the very first year
of the transformation journey, is only an
indication of greater things to come. Our
success is mainly due to the customer-
centric business approach and the
innovative relationship based banking, he
added.
When asked about the plans for 2015,
Galadari shared, We are adding an
Islamic window to our clientele and our
customer delivery channels are further
being strengthened. Plans are on to open
branches both in Sheikh Zayed Road,
Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Innovative
Wealth management plans will also be
introduced to cater to the demands of
the high-net worth clients. To ensure that
our clients continue to get the best of our
services, our investments in technology is
also being greatly focused.
366m
2014
AL MASRAF WAS ABLE TO ACHIEVE A GROWTH RATE,
MUCH ABOVE THE INDUSTRY TREND
Mr. Mohamed and the tourism sectors have continued to
Mohamed Bin be robust during the year. The real estate
Yousuf commented sector showed continuous stability. New
that the Global infrastructure projects were announced
growth in 2014 was during the year, to cope up with the demand
estimated to be for the upcoming Dubai Expo 2020. The Al
2.6%, lower than Etihad Credit Bureau have started operations
initially expected. in the year.
While activity in the
United States and The UAE Banking industry achieved an asset
United Kingdom growth of 10.6% in 2014. Reduced interest
Mohamed Mohamed has gathered rates increased the credit appetite in the
Bin Yousuf
momentum, the market. The industry witnessed a growth
Chairman
recovery has been in the loans and advances by 9.5% and a
sputtering in Euro area and Japan. China, corresponding increase in customer deposits
meanwhile is undergoing a carefully by 11.1%.
managed slowdown. The other developing
countries have shown disappointing growth. The bank was able to achieve a growth rate,
Soft commodity prices, persistently low much above the industry trend - 13% increase
interest rates, divergent monetary policies in total assets, 38% growth in net loans and
across major economies and weak world advances, 40%increase in customer deposits
trade, are driving the global outlook. The and a 40% increase in net profit.
sharp decline in oil prices, while supporting
the growth in importing economies, would To cope up with the challenges and to capitalize
dampen growth prospects in the exporting on future opportunities, your Bank is already
countries. repositioning itself. The Bank has adopted a
comprehensive approach in its new business
Diversification policies have helped the GCC
region to withstand the price-shock in the
oil industry, as the share of the hydrocarbon
sectors contribution to the region GDP is
down to 33% in 2014, from 41% in 2000.
strategy, which included revamping of the
operations, new organization structure, review
of staff competencies, focus on Emiratisation,
enhanced investments in the Information
Technology, improved credit underwriting
skills, enhanced risk management, etc. We
are also on our final stages to launch Islamic
Banking Window.
Future growth would be driven, with due
focus on enhanced customer experience
and unique competitive advantage. Our
continuing investments in technology and
operations are directed at enhancing the
customer satisfaction.
I would like to express my gratitude as well
as that of our Board, to the President of UAE,
His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al
Nahyan for his leadership and vision, which is
continuously inspiring this nation to prosper.
I also thank the Central Bank of UAE, my
fellow board members, the shareholders,
the correspondent banks, the customers and
the staff for all the support and assistance,
received during the year.

In the United Arab Emirates, the huge

financial reserves and a well- diversified
economy are helping the country, from any
adverse impacts of the oil price crash. The
contribution of the non-hydrocarbon sector
to the UAE economy still continues to be
more than 60%. The trade, retail, industry

AL MASRAF ACHIEVES POSITIVE PERFORMANCE DURING Q1 2015

Faisal H. Galadari
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
AL MASRAF has achieved a net profit of AED 83 million during the 1st quarter of 2015, which reflects
an increase of 14 per cent as compared to the companys first quarter performance in 2014. Faisal
Galadari, CEO of AL MASRAF, has shared that AL MASRAF is making positive steps that fall in line with
the Al Masraf strategy that the management created three years ago. He stated that AL MASRAF has
achieved a significant increase of more than 40 per cent or AED 366 million in its net profit during
2014, as compared to 2013. He said that this growth is a result of managements proper planning-
-adopting a new strategic plan for the Al Masraf that has helped drive in fundamental change. AL
MASRAFs successes is not only limited to achieving exceptional growth rates, but also include
many achievements in terms of improving the efficiency of its teams, expanding the adoption of
modern technology, improving the performance of credit and risk departments, asset quality and
implementing key marketing campaigns. In addition, Galadari revealed that AL MASRAFs main focus
is towards maintaining and engaging its customers, which is the driving force behind the companys
initiativesintroducing a radical change in the companys operations and enhancing the level of
performance and services in order to meet the customers needs.

5
EVENT

H.H. DR. SHEIKH SULTAN BIN MOHAMMED AL QASIMI

VISITS AL MASRAF STAND AT NATIONAL CAREER
EXHIBITION - SHARJAH
H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohemmed Al Qasimi visited
AL MASRAF stand during this years edition of Careers UAE,
the country's leading recruitment, training and exhibition
event. His Highness was welcomed by Faisal Galadari
and Ibrahim Al Zaabi along with the companys various
executives.

Galadari said that Al Masraf has developed a plan to increase

the percentage of Emiratization by 35 per cent in the next
three years, which falls in line with AL MASRAFs strategy
to support Emiratization in the UAE and effectively attract
graduates to join the banking sector. He shared that career
fairs provide AL MASRAF with the opportunity to meet with
the countrys growing pool of highly skilled and talented
human resources. Galadari reported that Al Masraf has
adopted advanced training programs to further train and
hone the banking skills of UAE citizens who wish to start a
career in banking and finance. He also pointed out that Al
MASRAF is planning to open three new branches, wherein
UAE nationals will get majority of positions.

Ibrahim Al Zaabi said that the banks consider Emiratization a top priority--stressing that UAE nationals have become an important part in the
success of the banking sector. Al Zaabi confirmed that career fairs have become an important platform that matches the human resource
needs of the banking sector with talented and skilled UAE job seekers. He added that UAE banks have opened up career opportunities for UAE
citizens, which falls in line with the government's strategy to localize jobs, cultivate and enhance human resources.

6
AWARDS

In Recognition For Its Excellence In Serving

Customers And Achieving Commitment
Rate Of 99.41 Per Cent In 2014

AL MASRAF WINS
PRESTIGIOUS STRAIGHT
THROUGH PROCESSING STP
EXCELLENCE AWARD FROM Mr. Faisal Galadari and Mr.Zoubir Saidi receive the award from
AND COMMERZBANK AG Commerzbank representatives

Al Masraf, one of the UAEs premier banking institutions, has been

named as the winner of this years Straight Through Processing (STP)
Excellence. The award reflects the Banks consistently high SWIFT
standards, which facilitate automated processing throughout the
payment process, which is highly reflected in its recent achievement
of 99.4 per cent STP rate in 2014.

The STP Excellence Award is regarded as a key standard of excellence

in the international banking and finance arena as it aims to recognize
the most efficient financial institutions from around the world that
ably meet the rigorous criteria and guidelines for correspondent
banking and international electronic payment transfers set by
Commerzbank. Winners of the award are picked after they go
through a lengthy evaluation and analysis from a judging committee
composed of financial experts and analysts.

We are truly humbled with this recognition, which is testament to

the commitment that we have placed in providing our customers with world class financial services and products that address their needs
and requirements, said Faisal Galadari Chief Executive Officer Al Masraf. We would like to thank Commerzbank for this award - serving as an
inspiration for us to remain steadfast in our vision to be an innovative and preferred financial partner for all banking services in the region.

AL MASRAF POINTS
Our colleague Marwan Al Janahi won the
naming competition that was initiated
between Al Masraf staff for the name of the
credit card rewards program.

Al Masraf Points is a revolutionary new

Credit Card Loyalty program that earns
you points every time you spend on your
Al Masraf Credit Card at home or abroad.
The unique loyalty program gives you the
widest variety of choice when it comes to
credit card rewards! Whether youre looking
for flights, hotel stays, shopping or even just
straightforward cashback, Al Masraf Points
gives you all these benefits using just one
credit card! All retail and online transaction
you make using your Al Masraf Credit Cards,
will earn you loyalty points to be redeemed
Mr. Ebrahim Al Zaabi handing over the prize to Mr. Marwan Al Janahi
as per your convenience.

7
Islamic Banking Services

LAUNCHING ISLAMIC BANKING SERVICES

At the beginning of 2014, the bank management recognized the UAE markets growing need for Islamic
banking services as reflected by repeated demands from bank clients in particular and customers in general
for banking services compatible with Islamic Sharia principles.

In response, the bank began preparing both the technical and human capital infrastructure for launching and implementing a specialized
Islamic window for providing Islamic banking products and services meeting the needs of customers. The bank formed a specialized and
experienced Islamic banking services team to manage, market, and follow up all customer needs related to the offered Islamic services. The
first phase which began with the launch of the program in May 2015 includes the following bundle of Islamic banking services and products:

Retail Banking Corporate Banking

Current Accounts Current Accounts
Mudarabah Savings
Mudarabah Savings Accounts
Accounts
WakalaInvestment Deposit
WakalaInvestment Deposit Accounts
Accounts
Mudarabah Short-term
Mudarabah Short-term Investment Deposit
Investment Deposit
Accounts
Accounts
Mudarabah Term
Investment Deposit Mudarabah Term Investment Deposit Accounts
Accounts
Signing Ceremony of 5 Years Working Capital Ijarah Buy-Lease
Retail Banking Corporate Banking back Facility with PNC Group (Sobha)

Covered Cards Murabaha Goods Finance The Islamic banking team made great strides in just a short
period of time by building strategic relationships with new
customers, resulting in the establishment of a set of Islamic
Personal Finance Working Capital Finance
assets and liabilities worth AED 350 million and AED 880
million, within Islamic approvals worth AED 835 million.
Murabaha Goods Finance Ijara Real Estate Finance Moreover, the work team also achieved a total profit of AED
5 million. Looking ahead, profits are expected to increase
up to AED 20 million at the end of 2015, accompanied by a
Home Finance Murabaha Letters of Credit Finance
rise in the value of assets to AED 500 million. All forms and
All Types of Bank Guarantees (Bid, applications for Islamic banking have been prepared and
Ijara Real Estate Finance Performance, Advance Payment, Retention, developed internally in line with Sharia rules and provisions.
Payment Bonds, Financial Guarantees, etc.)
For any other inquiries or details about Islamic banking, please contact our Islamic banking team:

Name Position Telephone Email

Yahya Issa Khalil Head of Islamic Banking 04-2333560 yahya.khalil@almasraf.ae

Mohamed Ahmed Qasim Senior Manager 04-2333561 mohammad.qasim@almasraf.ae

Obaid Ibrahim Al Ali Senior Manager 04-2333562 obaid.alali@almasraf.ae

Mohammed Abdul Karim Al Mulla Customer Relationship Manager 04-2333563 mohamed.abdulkarim@almasraf.ae

Hamda Al Janahi Customer Relationship Manager 04-2333564 hamda.aljanaahi@almasraf.ae

8
IN FOCUS
FAISAL GALADARI
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
IN AN INTERVIEW WITH AL KHALEEJ NEWSPAPER SIGNIFICANT
INTEREST IN FUNDING SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES
Faisal Galadari said that the financial solvency
of Al Masraf has reached 26 per cent, which
exceeds the requirements of the Central Bank
and the International Basel Committee on
Banking Supervision. The figure indicates the
huge potential of Al Masraf for expansion in
the future. Galadari emphasized that Al Masraf
is focusing on the trade and corporate sectors,
paying particular attention to SME finance and
plans for expanding the ATM network with the
added provision of worker insurance payments
via ATM without any fees. Al Masraf is also fully
committed to developing its human resources
and supporting Emiratization.
He added: Around 30 per cent of our
employees are UAE Nationals, and we are
working on exceeding this figure in line with
our top prioritization of Emiratization and
human resources development. Al Masraf is
also keen on providing Islamic banking and
financial services, as shown by our opening of
a new branch in Dubai which forms part of our
plan to further broaden our customer base by
attracting patrons of Islamic financial products
and services. The interview ran as follow:
Has the Arab Bank for Investment and
Foreign Trade been able to strengthen its
performance and position, in light of the
competition between banks in the market?
Certainly! The Arab Bank for Investment and
Foreign Trade is a part of the states banking
and financial system, and capitalizes on this
competition to improve performance, provide
high-quality financial and banking services,
and introduce new bank offerings such as
Islamic banking products. In line with this, we
opened our new branch our tenth this year
in Dubai, which offers Islamic banking and
financial services to customers.
As part of our three-year strategic plan which
began in 2013, we are focusing sharply
on customer services, primarily trade and
corporate sector finance, with particular
attention towards offering advanced and high-
quality financial and banking services. We are
also investing more on the development of the
financial and banking information technology
sector, developing the banks human resources
using the latest training methodologies, and
increasing the proportion of Nationals.
As part of our ongoing efforts to introduce new
banking instruments, products and services,
we have started developing a credit card in
cooperation with MasterCard that is at par with
those offered by our competitors. Our card
will include a number of unique incentives
and will be launched within this month (June).
We are now expanding the ATM network for
thebenefitof our customers, and introducing
new banking services compatible with the
provisions of Islamic Sharia. In addition, Al
Masraf is currently improving support for
financing small and medium enterprises which
represent a large sector with the potential to
10
enhance our market position and
increase both our customer base
and job opportunities.
Al Masraf Financial Indicators
In figures, what are the effects of
your plan on Al Masraf Indicators?
The vision and strategic plan of the
bank has had a positive impact on
our performance. In 2014, Al Masraf
grew its net profits by 41 per cent to
AED 336 million. For the first quarter
of the current year, we were able to
increase our net profits by 14 per
cent to AED 83 million over the same
period last year. We also boosted our
loans and financing facilities portfolio
to by 30 per cent to AED 7.8 billion.
In addition, customer deposits rose 16 per cent He added: In spite of the decline in oil prices,
to AED 8.12 billion, while Al Masrafs assets the national economy is still able to bring
increased by 9 per cent to AED 13.74 billion by in more capital into the private and public
the end of March 2015. We expect to sustain projects. It seems the oil prices are starting
growth throughout this year. to improve, having increased to over USD 65
these days, which is poised to help promote
the diverse national economy and reduce
Is Al Masrafs performance well-recognized
dependence on the oil industry as a key source
by other local, regional and international
of income, which will benefit the rapidly
institutions?
growing non-oil sectors. Local, regional and
international studies point that the national
The Arab Bank for Investment & Foreign
economy is estimated to achieve at least a 4
Trade (Al Masraf ) recently won the Straight
per cent increase this year, which we believe is
Through Processing (STP) Excellence Award
a good growth rate by all standards.
from Commerzbank AG in recognition of
its full compliance with stringent SWIFT
standards for facilitating online payment Sufficient Liquidity
transactions. The recognition underlines the
banks excellence in customer service, as Al Masraf maintains a high level of liquidity and
reflected by its outstanding 99.41 percent is fully committed to following the instructions of
STP rate in 2014. the Central Bank in this regard. We make sure to
promote liquidity from its stable sources, where
funding the sources of the banks stable capital
The award is an international criterion of
reaches a high 90 percent, Faisal Galadari said.
excellence in the financial and banking
industry as it recognizes international
financial institutions that abide by the strict We are constantly working to enhance the
standards and guidelines on the management equity capital base which increased by 7 per
of banking relations and online payment cent in Q1 2015 to reach a total of AED 3.4
transfers set by Commerzbank, one of the billion. As for the possibility of working and
worlds leading banks in euro clearing. expanding in finance and business, we believe
This years winners were chosen based on that we have the potential and the prospects
thorough assessment and analysis of all to do so, especially as our capital adequacy
received euro remittances. We are honoured stands at 26 per cent which is much higher
to have won this award which reaffirms our than the ratio required by the Central Bank
utmost commitment to providing customers and Basel II. This demonstrates the banks high
with an integrated portfolio of high-quality capabilities for expanding its financing and
financial products and services to address credit facilitations for its customers, particularly
their needs and aspirations. This achievement the corporate and business sectors and high-
urges us to continue our vision of making net-worth individuals. In line with our efforts to
Al Masraf the innovative, preferred financial expand our customer base, we have updated
partner for all banking services in the region. the Labour Guarantee mechanism online and
via ATM with no charges. We have also opened
a Labour Guarantee centre in Abu Dhabi, with
4 per cent Expected Growth in National
plans to launch another in Dubai and Sharjah
Economy
soon, which is poised to strengthen Al Masrafs
leading position and customer base. We are
Faisal Galadari, Chief Executive Officer, Al Masraf,
selective in financing the real estate sector,
said: The national economy offers significant
depending on the clients net worth and source
business opportunities for banks, especially with
of capital.
the major government projects underway and
the private sectors vital activities across various
economic industries. Al Khaleej Newspaper, Interview done by: Ali Asaad
PUBLISHED ARTICLES

11
IN FOCUS

INTERVIEW WITH
MR. ZOUBIR SAIDI
ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER
1- Can you tell us about AL MASRAF and when it was established?

Al Masraf was established in 1975 with the aim of cultivating greater cooperation among Arab
countries and promoting joint economic projects. Al Masraf was an organic product of H.H. the late
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyans especially close ties with the Libyan and Algerian presidents
during that time. After the announcement of the UAE Federation, Sheikh Zayed saw that there was
a need for stronger collaboration among Arab countries, especially in the economic sector. This
prompted the creation of Al Masraf in the UAE with a capital of Dhs 600 Million in August of 1975
where His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Minister of Finance and Industry at
H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
that time was representing UAE during the signing of the incorporation agreement that happened
opens first branch in Abu Dhabi (Archives)
in Algeria. Al Masraf was originally managed by five representatives from Algeria and three
representatives from Libya. Many facilities have been made available to Al Masraf, most of which
are owned by the UAE Government, including Banque ExterieuredAlgerie, which was represented
by Mr. Hussain Abed and Libyan Foreign Bank, which was represented by Mr. Mohammed Ibrahim
Abd Al Jawan. Al Masraf holds its Arab culture and identity in high regard, using its strong business
ethics as a platform for achieving its mission of developing and promoting investment and trade
relations among Arab countries. Al Masrafs strategically located headquarters in the Middle East
serves as a crucial gateway connecting the East and the West.

2- Tell us about the expansion plans at that time?

Al Masraf first partnered with financial institutions under the government of Libya and Algeria
before engaging commercial banks in Algeria, in an active effort to establish strong trade relations
between Gulf countries and the Maghreb (Libya, Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco). The first branch of
Al Masraf was launched in Abu Dhabi with an opening ceremony that drew the attendance of H.H.
the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and Leopold Sedar Senghor, President of Senegal, who
was then on a state visit. Soon after, the second Al Masraf branch opened in Dubai in 1978. At the
time, Al Masraf managed a representative branch in Libya but none in Algeria. The technological
advancements of today were not at the companys disposal at the time, and the only available tools
were limited to NCR. The equipment and the furniture of Al Masraf were imported from Italy. Today,
Al Masraf has seven branches across the UAE, in addition to a network of correspondent banks H.H. Sheikh Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum
around the world all of which work together as a solid ecosystem that aims to be a leader in the opens Dubai branch (Archives)
banking industry. Al Masraf is developing an expansion strategy that will involve opening new
branches and representative offices in other key Arab countries.

3- When did you join AL Masraf? What are the milestones you have experienced in the span
of your career?

I have been part of Al Masraf since it first opened its doors in 1975. In the span of over 40 years,
Al Masraf has greatly advanced Libyan and Algerian export and trade finance, and has provided
funding for thousands of programs including real estate projects in Abu Dhabis Tourist Club Area
along with other key UAE initiatives. In recognition of its high standards of excellence, Al Masraf has
garnered several notable awards such as the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award for Human Resources
Development, which Al Masraf bagged for four consecutive years, as well as the Best CEO Award, H.H. Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan
which was given by the Human Resources Development Committee. opens Al Ain branch (Archives)

4- How do you describe Al Masrafs progress since you joined it? What are the obstacles and
difficulties you encountered?

Al Masraf has successfully enjoyed strong progress over the years, and the organization remains
steadfast in the development of its administration and operations. The institution remains
committed to further enhancing its services, human resources and systems in order to meet the
growing demand of its ever-expanding range of customers. In the four decades that the company
has been in operation, Al Masraf has not experienced any major setbacks that hindered its efforts
to create new benchmarks in performance, observe established global standards, and provide a
superior banking experience. Al Masraf remained largely unaffected by the 2008 financial crisis,
overcoming the predicament by adopting a comprehensive strategy featuring special programs First branch - Abu Dhabi 1976
and providing professional, world-class services and performance without compromise.

5- What are your future plans? Where do you see Al Masraf in the coming years?

Al Masraf remains dedicated to modernizing its operations in order to keep abreast with the
dynamic demands of its customers and enhance its reputation as the leading, preferred and
trusted bank in the region. We will also continue our strategic efforts to achieve further growth by
expanding our retail and corporate banking services. We will be opening a new branch in Algeria,
and we are in the process of opening branches in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain to
further solidify our presence within the UAE.
Al-Ain branch - 1981

12
OUR HISTORY

First management team of Al Masraf

13
SPORTS

AL MASRAF SHOWS SUPPORT FOR AL JAZIRA CLUBS SPORT

INITIATIVES VIA AED 1-MILLION CASH DONATION
Ebrahim Al Zaabi, Head of Branches Banking and Sales, AL MASRAF, said:
We have always been fervent in our CSR initiatives especially those
focusing on the sport sector, an essential part of our societys success.
Our support for Al Jazira Club will be part of our legacy.

The meeting was attended by Al Zaabi; A.S. Pillai, Chief Financial Officer,
AL MASRAF; Mohammed bin Aloun, Head of Administrative Affairs
Department, AL MASRAF; and Ammar Younis, CEO, Al Jazira Club.

Younis said: We would like to thank AL MASRAF for its support as we

extend our appreciation to the company for its high interest in the
sporting industry. The donation will reinforce our objectives to further
improve our facilities so we can train more local athletes who will
represent the UAE in various competitions.

On the banks CSR strategy, Al Zaabi said: As a member of our society,

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program supporting
the sports sector, the Arab Bank For Investment and Foreign Trade (AL
MASRAF) has donated AED 1 million to Al Jazira Club to back its sport
activities focusing on society and youth development.
Al Masraf continues to look for ways to support various areas that
can contribute to the advancement of our community and promote
the welfare of our citizens. For the current year, we plan to launch key
initiatives to help us achieve these strategic objectives.

The announcement highlighted also AL MASRAFs commitment in

supporting the local sports and the reasons behind that.

AL MASRAF SPONSORS EUROPEAN HANDCYCLING CIRCUIT

AL MASRAF has consistently demonstrated its unwavering support to many sectors
of society by contributing to and sponsoring various development programs
and initiatives, particularly those organized for individuals with special needs. In
accordance with its policy, AL MASRAF has sponsored the European Handcycling
Circuit organized by the Zayed Higher Organization for Humanitarian Care and
Special Needs, which was represented by Ain Club for the Disabled. The event that
was monitored by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and the European Handcycling
Federation, saw a participation of 60 handbikers from 19 country members of the
federation.

The participants of the event commented: "The sporting event generally reflects the
overall objectives of Zayed Higher Organization for Humanitarian Care and Special
Needs and other similar groups in the UAE". Ebrahim Al Zaabi, Head of Branches
Banking and Sales, AL MASRAF, said: AL MASRAF is fully confident in the organizations
administrative and technical capabilities to successfully run an event that focuses on
encouraging people with special needs to get involved in sports. It is our pleasure to
be part of the Circuit.

The European Handcycling Federation consists of 13 members from France, Germany,

Spain, Czech Republic, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium,
Switzerland, Austria, UK, and the UAE.

The Federations first Italian Roberto Ranceljo chairs the Board of

race was held in 2001
in several European
countries. The city of Al Ain
won the right to host the
tournament in 2009.
Directors of the 3rd session of the European
Handcycling Federation. His deputy is
Emirati Ismail Al Maraziq, General Manager of
Al Ain Club for the Disabled, while Austrian
Christian Peter is the Financial Officer.
In 2007, the UAE, through Al Ain Club for the
Disabled of the Zayed Higher Foundation
for Humanitarian Care and Special Needs,
became the first member outside Europe to
join the European Handcycling Federation.
The UAE handbikers participate in many
competitions held in Europe.

14
EXPANSION

OUR ATM NETWORK IS GROWING!

In order to serve our Customers in a

better way and g ive them an easy of
access for cash Al Masraf installed 3 new
ATMs in the following malls :

Dubai Mall at the entrance of

Kidzenia

Yas Mall - Ground floor close to

Debenhams

Sahara Mall - close to Mango shop

and Paul Restaurant ( new extension)

In addition of the new ATMs our

E-channel team is working on the
updating of the ATM back end system
specially that our new Debit card will be
launched soon!
Yas Mall Dubai Mall

Sahara Mall

15
IN FOCUS

INTERVIEW WITH MR. CHARLES DOGHLASS

CBO OF AL MASRAF
Q: What is Al Masrafs strategic roadmap
to development for 2015? Now that we
have reached the second half of the year,
what has been achieved so far and what
else can we expect?

A: When our CEO, Mr. Faisal Galadari, took

the helm in September 2013, the main
focus was to assess the Banks prevailing
situation at that time, in terms of Balance
Sheet composition, resources, systems,
distribution channels, portfolio profile and
coverage ratio, among others.

The priority was to address those elements

with the ultimate aim at formulating a
strategic plan to achieve our mission to
become the first choice bank for customers
with best-in-class products and services
as well as ensuring sustainable Return on
So far, Al Masraf has introduced online other GCC countries, and having a lower
investment to our shareholders. In that
banking for Corporate as well as personal break-even price, its banking system will be
perspective, we have developed a three-year
segments, where most transactions can be less affected by the sharp drop in oil prices.
strategy.
done online, without the need to visit the
bank. Corporate department has set up a Nevertheless, tightening liquidity in the
Consequently, we have held a general
Transaction Banking unit, which will soon system and an anticipated rise in interest
meeting on 5th of January 2014, attended by
be handling, Payroll services, WPS and Non- rates by the US Federal Reserve, will have an
our middle and senior managers, wherein the
WPS, Demand drafts, Pay orders, Corporate impact on the pricing of credit facilities in the
agenda was to share the three-year strategy.
Customized cheques, cash pick-up service, near to medium term.
As far as Business was concerned, we focused
document pick-up, PDC warehousing,
on the specific sectors of the economy we
Liquidity management solutions, Zero Such a reduction in oil prices will cause some
will be targeting, the organization chart of
balance sweep facility, standard sweep, projects to be scaled back. However, the UAE
the corporate department (centralization,
account linking facility, etc.. . As of May 2015, is a stable market as it constantly focuses on
regional, hunters and farmers), the new
we have achieved the budget in terms of diversification, rather than relying solely on
products and services we will be introducing,
Loans and Advances growth, in addition to oil revenue.
such as transaction banking, Factoring, Debt
top line and bottom line figures and most of
Capital Markets, etc.. The quantitave as
the profitability ratios. As we come to the end As for your question on Banks role in
well as qualitative performance appraisal
of 2015, we are confident all our set goals will stabilizing the prices, I am of the opinion
system which will be linked to a set of Key
be met thanks to the collective efforts of our that this role, if any, would be very limited,
performance indicators, etcin line with our
teams. as banks will actually be on the affected side.
management set budget.
Q: Does the current situation regarding Q: How is Al Masraf looking to attract more
The strategy focused on targeting
oil prices directly affect the banking and clients? Are there any value additions
high growth potential sectors of the
finance segments? What is the role of local offered to clients opening accounts with
economy, gaining further market share,
banks in the move to stabilize prices? Al Masraf?
integrating strategic elements such as
the implementation of a more focused
marketing effort, the development of a sales A: Yes, it will in some aspects and at various A: By being pro-active in its marketing efforts,
culture, (the bank centralized Corporate levels on GCC countries. Banks across oil and agile in responding on timely basis
sales unitsDubai, Northern Emirates exporting countries could face asset-quality to our clients requirements, Al Masraf has
and Abu Dhabi ,Al Ain,) introduction of and earnings deterioration. The most started to offer several incentives to attract
new MIS reporting, thanks to our Finance immediate impact of lower oil prices on and retain customers. Specially created
Department, enhancement in Credit GCC banks will be felt on the liability side, customer service teams, which include
assessment automated applications, with the notably reduced deposit inflows from large technical specialists from Trade finance,
help of our credit department, centralization corporate and GREs that may reduce system Treasury, transaction banking, and soon
of operational activities, assisted by our liquidity, according to credit rating agency Debt Capital Market, are playing important
Operations department, in order to relieve Moodys, advisory role in addressing the needs of our
RMs from administrative work so they can clients from every domain--visiting them and
have more focus on originating business and In our opinion, the UAE economy being providing advice to help understand their
generating revenue for the bank. relatively more diversified compared to business model and offer them solutions

16
for their banking requirements, (such as
hedging the various risks, e.g. Foreign
Exchange volatility, Interest rate fluctuations, LABOUR GUARANTEES
etc.. enhancing their earnings, streamlining
their banking operations, as well as inviting
Obtaining Guarantees for your employees visas is no longer a hassle.Book
them to attend seminars that will help them your company's Labour Guarantees with us and enjoy the following benefits:
in staying abreast of new developments in FREE Issuance Charges (The bank bears the customer cost)
the global as well as domestic business and Fast turnaround time
banking environments). Also, Al Masraf has Online processing
started offering a corporate online banking Well-trained and multi-lingual sta-members
service, which is a value addition where Simple documentation
customers can do transactions anytime and Convenient locations
anywhere. Al Masraf hold a weekly credit
committee meeting on regular basis to look
into the credit applications in order to take
the appropriate decisions.

Q: Will Al Masraf be offering new services

and products in the 2nd half of the year?
What will be your core focus for the next Al Masraf
six months? Transaction Banking

A: In line with our commitment towards

providing our customers with key banking
solutions, we continue to develop our
online and transaction banking, launch
new services such as Factoring, Debt Capital
Market, Advisory and many other convenient
services, with special focus on enhancing our
online banking solutions. All of these services
are constantly updated to help address our
clients ever-changing needs. Our core focus
for the next six months will continue to
implement our strategy in: gaining further
market share and expand our clients base,
develop existing relationships by enhancing
our share of wallet and Customer service
team visits, target high growth potential
sectors of the economy, and cementing our
presence in the markets we operate in. Al End to end solutions covering WPS / Payroll services in
Masraf is keen in providing the best possible convenient and cost effective way
services that will assist our customers in
conducting their business and consequently Payroll Salient Features:
raise their satisfaction levels. All of this come
to meet Al Masraf vision to become an
innovative and preferred financial partner your convenience
for all banking services in the region. Payroll card solutions for low wage employees
Executive payroll accounts

Dedicated relationship and support team
For more details, please call your Relationship Manager

04-2333823 / 04-2333832 tbs@almasraf.ae

17
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FEATURES AND BENEFITS OF THE NEW
AL MASRAF CREDIT CARDS.
Al Masraf launched its new credit card, which is a key to a world of advantages and benefits in order to provide the highest excellence
and privacy levels through a set of special features and extensive global acceptance, it provides maximum flexibility and purchasing
power that suit your needs and lifestyle.
AL MASRAF IN PHOTOS

Al Masraf Biannual Meeting were

we discussed the results of the
first half of the year and whats
planned for the second half.
Grand Millennium,
11th of June 2015

21


.

11 2015

20
Al MASRAF IN PHOTO

The new interior
and exterior branch
merchandising of
Al Masraf

Outdoor brand
communication
campaign in Abu Dhabi

22
Al MASRAF IN PHOTO

On the occasion of the holy month of

Ramadan Al Masraf organised Sohour
evening for its valuable clients

-


.2015
Asateer Tent
Atlantis the Palm,
Dubai 1st July
2015

2015 6
Fairmount Bab Al
Baher, Abu Dhabi,
6th of July 2015

22
WELCOME OUR NEW STAFF
-
Hussein Mohamed Mohamed Ohida
Assistant General Manager
Atul Arora
Head - Program Management Office
Mohammad Ahmed Saleh Qasim
Senior Manager
Islamic Banking
OUR VISION
To become an innovative and
preferred financial partner for all
banking services in the region.
OUR MISSION
Become first choice bank for the
customers with best-in-class prod-
ucts and services.
20
Obaid Ibrahim Obaid Aman Al Ali Mahra Abbas Mohammad Jabr
Senior Manager - Islamic Banking Head of Sales
Luai Mohamed Elsheikh Elfazari Abdul Gafoor Eramangalath
Senior Relationship Manager Executive Manager Head
Transaction Banking
Hamda Mubarak Al Janaahi Kawakib Alasmawi
Relationship Manager Branch Manager
Islamic Banking
Be an employer of choice to at- OUR VALUES
tract, develop and retain high pro-
file employees. Customer Focus
Benefit our investors with sustain- Organization Commitment
able Return on Investment (ROI)
and continuous success. Change Orientation
Contribute to society through ac- Quality Focus
tive participation in the regional
economic development initiatives Team Spirit


Hebah Abdul Wahhab Bin Eid Al Hammadi Mohamed Abdul Rahman
Manager - Administration Mohamed A. Alhashmi Mohamed Abdul Karim Al Mula
Branch Manager Relationship Manager
Islamic Banking

Bachar Dib Shah Faisal
Markeitng Manager Faris Ahmad Faris Ahmad Relationship Manager
Manager, Finance
Islamic Banking

21