The bank’s 2024 transformation has delivered instant credit access, AI-powered rewards and app-based card issuance as a strategy to streamline digital access
As the GCC banking sector accelerates digitisation, institutions are investing in mobile ecosystems to improve engagement, simplify credit access and meet rising consumer expectations. For Islamic banks in particular, the challenge lies in aligning sharia-compliant services with seamless, technology-driven experiences that meet international digital standards.
Qatar-based Dukhan Bank’s 2024 digital strategy was built around its mobile banking app, which was rebuilt using Flutter, Google’s cross-platform framework. The app now supports a full range of banking services including fund transfers, cardless withdrawals and instant digital card issuance. Additional services include Western Union remittances and lifestyle functions such as branch locators, prayer times and donation tools. Together, these features reflect both global functionality and Islamic banking priorities.
Instant access to finance
The app integrates real-time, pre-approved financing features, allowing customers to access finance or apply for credit cards in a few taps. This is enabled by Dukhan Bank’s partnership with Mastercard’s Digital First programme, making it the first bank in Qatar to offer instant issuance of prepaid digital cards. These cards are compatible with Apple Pay, Fitbit Pay and Garmin Pay, and are supported by numberless physical card options for added security.
Loyalty powered by data
The DAwards rewards platform offers the highest Avios redemption rate among Qatari banks. Customers can redeem points across flights, hotel bookings, car hires and e-vouchers. Cashback programmes have also evolved from flat welcome offers to personalised rewards tailored to spending behaviour. New customers receive up to 15% cashback, with future offers adjusted using AI-led analytics.
Digital infrastructure upgrades
In parallel, Dukhan Bank has rolled out Smart Kiosks to allow 24/7 printing of debit, credit and prepaid cards without branch visits. This initiative, along with the wider mobile banking enhancements, reflects a shift towards self-service infrastructure. These moves are backed by strong financials, with the bank posting a QR1.3bn ($366.1m) profit in 2024 and closing a $800m sukuk that attracted $2.6bn in demand.
Dukhan Bank’s combination of intelligent personalisation, digital infrastructure and accessible finance has earned it the Best Digital Transformation Initiative award at the Mena Banking Excellence Awards 2025 – Retail, Digital & SME.