April 23, 2026
Abu Dhabi — First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE’s global bank and one of the world’s largest and safest financial institutions, has announced strong financial results for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting continued growth across its diversified business segments and solid balance sheet expansion.
Strong Financial Performance
FAB delivered a robust start to 2026, with operating income rising 6% year-on-year to AED 9.34 billion, while operating profit increased 5% to AED 7.22 billion. Net profit for the quarter stood at AED 5.01 billion, supported by consistent business momentum and diversified revenue streams.
Return on Tangible Equity (RoTE) remained strong at 17.8%, comfortably above the bank’s medium-term guidance, highlighting FAB’s ability to generate high-quality returns across market cycles.
Record Balance Sheet Expansion
The bank’s total assets increased 6% year-to-date, crossing AED 1.49 trillion (over USD 400 billion) for the first time. Growth was driven by strong lending activity and steady deposit inflows, particularly within the UAE market.
Key balance sheet highlights include:
- Net loans and advances up 8% to AED 668 billion
- Customer deposits increased 4% to AED 871 billion
- Strong UAE-driven liquidity inflows supporting stability
Revenue Mix and Business Strength
Net interest income rose 12% year-on-year to AED 5.61 billion, supported by strong volumes and resilient margins. Non-interest income reached AED 3.72 billion, contributing 40% of total revenue in Q1 2026, reflecting FAB’s diversified income strategy.
Strong Asset Quality and Capital Position
FAB maintained strong financial stability indicators:
- Non-performing loans (NPL) ratio improved to 2.1%
- Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) at 145%
- CET1 capital ratio at 12.8%
These metrics remain well above regulatory requirements, reinforcing the bank’s strong risk management framework.
Management Commentary
Group CEO Hana Al Rostamani highlighted that the results reflect FAB’s strong franchise, disciplined risk management, and diversified income base, even amid global market volatility. She also emphasized ongoing investments in AI, technology, and digital transformation to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.
Group CFO Lars Kramer added that the bank’s resilient performance is supported by its diversified business model, strong capital position, and prudent risk approach, enabling consistent delivery across market cycles.
Business Segment Performance
- Investment Banking & Markets: Revenue up 10%, contributing 35% of group revenue
- Wholesale Banking: Revenue up 18% driven by strong lending and innovative client solutions
- Personal, Business & Wealth Banking: Revenue at AED 3.23 billion, supported by strong retail and SME growth
- International operations: Double-digit lending growth and 24% contribution to group revenue
Sustainability and Digital Growth
FAB continues to lead in sustainable finance, having facilitated AED 389 billion toward its AED 500 billion 2030 target. The bank also advanced its AI and digital transformation strategy, with over 95% of structured data now integrated into its AI-enabled platform.
About First Abu Dhabi Bank
First Abu Dhabi Bank is headquartered in Abu Dhabi and operates across more than 20 markets. With total assets of AED 1.49 trillion (USD 406 billion), it is one of the largest banking groups globally, rated Aa3/AA-/AA- by major credit agencies.
