Backed by rapid expansion, lifestyle-linked products and app-led engagement, the bank is redefining how mobile-first banks compete at scale across the Mena region
As the Mena banking industry pivots towards hyper-personalisation and mobile-first services, digital-only banks are no longer seen as niche challengers but as core innovators. Bahrain’s Ila Bank, launched in 2019 as the region’s first cloud-native mobile bank, has since proven fully digital models can drive both customer satisfaction and measurable impact. This is particularly notable in markets historically reliant on branch-led banking.
Ila Bank’s strategy has centred on removing friction across the customer journey. Its mobile platform, rebuilt over 154 releases since launch, including 47 in 2024, now enables everything from three-minute digital onboarding to eight-currency cards and seamless local and international transfers. With tools such as Hassala automated saving pots, Jamiyah social saving solution and Al Kanz prize-linked accounts, the bank has reframed saving as an intuitive and rewarding experience.
Expanding ecosystem
In 2024, Ila Bank introduced a series of enhancements including a flexible Easy Payment Plan, Samsung Wallet integration and monthly payout options for fixed deposits and Islamic investments. The launch of the Ila Rewards programme has brought customisation to the forefront, enabling users to toggle between cashback, air miles and lifestyle redemptions. The bank has also introduced a digital gateway for investing in government securities, eliminating paperwork and offering real-time updates with zero custody fees.
Wider impact
Beyond features, Ila Bank’s scale and demographic reach have grown significantly. The bank now serves more than a third of Bahrain’s bankable population and had processed 14.4% of the country’s Fawri+ bank transfers by May 2024. Customer onboarding rose by 530% in 2023, with notable traction among previously underserved groups. Customers aged 50 and above, traditionally less engaged with mobile banking, grew by 679% in just one year. The bank’s app maintains a 4.8 rating on the Apple Store and 4.5 on Google Play.
Regional momentum
Following strong performances in Bahrain and Jordan, a key milestone was the launch of the Bank ABC app in Egypt leveraging Ila’s digital capabilities. Ila Bank also has plans for further expansions into Algeria and Tunisia. This regional push aligns with its mission to expand access to secure, mobile-first banking services in markets with limited digital penetration. Backed by parent group Bank ABC, Ila Bank is building a retail footprint that pairs agile product development with large-scale ambition.
Recognised for reshaping the consumer banking landscape, Ila Bank has been named Mena Retail Bank of the Year at the Mena Banking Excellence Awards 2025 – Retail, Digital & SME for its bold reinvention of retail finance in the digital age.