Abu Dhabi: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s largest banking group, has reported a record-breaking net profit of Dh10.6 billion for the first half of 2025. This is the first time in the bank’s history that its profit has exceeded the Dh10 billion mark for any half-year period.
The result marks a significant rise from the Dh8.42 billion profit recorded during the same period last year. Operating income for H1-2025 also saw a sharp increase, reaching Dh18.3 billion compared to Dh15.7 billion in H1-2024.
Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO of FAB, credited the record results to the bank’s scale, innovation, and ongoing digital transformation. “Our record performance reinforces FAB’s position as the UAE’s Global Bank and reflects a franchise defined by scale, connectivity, and innovation, with AI increasingly embedded in how we operate and how we serve our clients,” she said.
Market analysts had predicted a strong earnings cycle for UAE banks this year, supported by improved economic sentiment, rising interest rates, and continued growth across major industries. FAB’s performance confirms that forecast and sets a positive tone for the rest of the banking sector, with several other major banks due to report their results in the coming days.
The broader UAE banking industry is expected to post one of its best half-year performances in recent memory, driven by strong liquidity positions, investment momentum, and rising demand for both retail and corporate financial services.
FAB’s continued focus on technology, regional expansion, and operational efficiency is seen as a key contributor to its success. As more banks embrace digital innovation and AI-led services, the first-half results suggest a confident outlook for the sector in the remainder of the year.
