Gulf International Bank Launches the First Customer Designed Retail Banking Service

Gulf International Bank has launched a new, progressive retail banking service called Meem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. More than 200 ‘meem ?’ customers attended the launch event, which was held in Al Khobar.

‘meem ?’ aims to offer innovative, out of the box banking services. ‘the-One-Pack’ account offers customers the benefits of both current and savings accounts, in addition to other value added services such as online flexible term deposits, multi-currency debt cards and digital communication channels such as email, web chat and social media.

‘meem ?’ enables customers to access their accounts and various services through multi-channel platforms. The e-banking services allow remote access, which is aimed to enhance customer experience.

‘meem ?’ unique idea was designed through the concept of “co-creation”. This concept involved interacting with target customers via various social media channels and getting their feedback. This concept is said to have been deployed for the first time in the banking industry.

The Bank aims to stand out from the competition in terms of in-store experience, offering premium customer service though the use of latest technology and gadgets. Gulf International Bank has established exclusive stores in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Dhahran where account opening procedures are carried out. Customers will be able to receive their debit cards immediately as well as withdraw and deposit cash. The stores also allow assisted account maintenance and transfer of funds.

Dr. Yahya Alyahya, GIB’s Chief Executive Officer, said that the new service will help the bank capture and capitalize on banking potential in the GCC region. He further said that adopting new and innovative technologies will benefit the customers and will offer convenience and simplicity. He said that with the use of technology, customer experience will be enhanced. Commenting on standing out from the competition he said, “Our aim is to be ‘ahead-of-the-curve’ in providing clear and simple products and professional services to customers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and eventually across the GCC.”

Sakhr Almulhem, Head of Retail Banking, said the new service will offer convenience for all customers to carry out banking transactions electronically.