Business & Money | Tuesday 26 May, 2015 2:38 pm |

Al Rajhi Bank, one of the largest Islamic banks in the world, has selected Diebold’s technology to migrate transactions from the traditional teller line to the self-service channel and transform the in-branch banking experience for its customers. In Saudi Arabia, the vast majority of transactions are performed with cash. Approximately 70 percent of all banking transactions are performed inside the bank branch, which leads to long teller queues. The addition of 300 deposit automation-enabled automated teller machines (ATMs) across its entire network will allow Al Rajhi Bank to reduce transaction operating expenses by up to 55 percent and drive greater customer satisfaction.

“Diebold’s branch transformation expertise and technology have allowed us to decrease wait times in our retail branches which typically have long queues to perform routine transactions with a teller,” said Mohammed Al Garni, head of direct banking department, Al Rajhi Bank. “As our customers begin to perform more transactions on their own, our staff will have more time to assist with more complex needs and build deeper relationships.”

In addition to the new technology, Al Rajhi is also renovating its branches to enhance the overall look and feel and to make the ATMs more appealing to its customers, who have traditionally used the teller line to perform most transactions. In the future, Al Rajhi plans to implement even more advanced technology such as customized kiosks that will enable its customers, through biometric access, to perform transactions such as opening new accounts, printing and encoding new cards, checkbook and statement printing.

“We are excited to help Al Rajhi Bank redefine the ideal branch experience for its customers,” said Bassem Bouzid, Diebold senior vice president and managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Our extensive branch automation expertise will benefit customers as we look to further expand our presence in the important Middle East markets.”