Global Finance honors the financial institutions modernizing sub-custody.
Middle East
FIRST ABU DHABI BANK (FAB)
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) offers the broadest range of custody services as the only Middle Eastern-based institution offering sub-custody services across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Its platform covers seven countries, with upcoming expansion in Qatar. FAB is also the country winner in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Additional service extends to Egypt, Lebanon, and Oman. Clients benefit from a modern, scalable technology platform with a full suite of asset-servicing solutions designed to meet the needs of global institutional investors. Services are accessed through a user-friendly online interface that supports robust functionality and reporting. The platform is integrated with back-office systems to enhance automation, streamline operational workflows, and strengthen risk controls through digital alerts and an interactive dashboard. At the same time, FAB aims to provide the flexibility and high-touch service of a boutique-style custodian, supported by a flat organizational structure that fosters more-responsive client service.
To deepen the bank’s regional client base, its business development strategy is focused on three main client groups: global custodians, regional sovereign wealth funds, and MENA-based asset managers. FAB extended its franchise to the Asia-Pacific markets of China, Hong Kong, India, and Singapore in 2025. FAB is the only Middle Eastern bank with this capability, providing its global custodian clients with greater access to international exchanges through a single relationship for clearing and settlement of securities in these markets.
FAB recognizes the opportunities in the rapid growth of digital assets, particularly with sovereign clients seeking to extend their established banking relationships into digital-asset servicing. Accordingly, the bank is advancing its digital custody strategy to include the storage of digital assets, independent asset valuation, digital-asset collateral solutions, and tokenization-related services. With its participation in industry forums and through collaboration with local central securities depositories and regulatory bodies, the bank prioritizes its role in shaping the development of the securities-services industry in the region.
With its knowledge and influence, FAB has been successful in advancing new market initiatives in areas including Swift connectivity and the adoption of ISO 20022 messaging standards, capital requirements, introduction of omnibus account structures, e-voting, and extended margin and financing requirements for clients.
