United Arab Bank delivers 30% growth in 2024 net profit

United Arab Bank P.J.S.C (UAB) posted a net profit (before tax( of AED331 million for the year 2024, compared to AED 255 million in 2023 representing an increase of 30%. The growth in net profit stems from the improved operating performance and strong recoveries leading to lower net impairment charges.

This came as the Bank announced today its financial results for the full year ending 31st December 2024.

Operating income in FY 2024 increased to AED606 million, up 5% year-on-year (YoY) and is expected to remain robust with new portfolio underwritings in quality assets.

Total assets grew by 22% YoY in FY 2024 to AED21.5 billion, driven by the strong growth in loans, advances and Islamic financing (+23% yoy), while customer deposits increased by 33% yoy.

The Bank continues to maintain a solid capital adequacy ratio of 17.4% and a CET1 ratio of 12.7%, both of which remain well above the regulatory requirements, thus supporting the credit growth ahead. Gross NPL ratio notably improved further to 3.9% from 5.0% a year ago, supplemented by an adequate coverage of 118%.

The Bank continues to focus on growing its core businesses and revenues across its Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking and Treasury & Capital Markets segments, whilst moving towards a more agile operating model offering digital solutions and capabilities, thereby positioning itself as the partner of choice among major clientele.

The Bank’s robust liquidity profile is also demonstrated by an advances to stable resources ratio of 76% and an eligible liquid asset ratio of 17%, both comfortably above regulatory thresholds.

Commenting on the Bank's performance, Sheikh Mohammed bin Faisal bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of United Arab Bank, said: “We take immense pride in the Bank's outstanding financial performance in 2024. UAB’s strong performance is a testament to the success of our growth strategy, resilience in our core business, and reinforces our unwavering commitment to delivering long-term value to our shareholders. Our relentless focus on digitization and transformative innovation is reshaping the future of banking, enhancing our digital capabilities and operational excellence, and driving continuous progress in efficiency and customer value."

He added, “As we move forward, we are fully committed to elevating our customers’ banking experience and playing a pivotal role in the continued growth and prosperity of the UAE’s economy extend my sincere gratitude to the Board of Directors, senior management, and all our employees for their unwavering dedication and exceptional performance which have been driving our success.”

Shirish Bhide, Chief Executive Officer of United Arab Bank, commented: “Our achievements in 2024 reflect the remarkable progress made over the past three years, driven by our customer-centric approach and the successful execution of our sustainable growth model. Our strategy and effective operational management have been pivotal in achieving growth across all businesses. Additionally, the upgrade of UAB's deposit ratings to ‘Baa3’ with a continued ‘Positive’ outlook by Moody's is a testament to our sound financial management and tireless efforts towards strengthening the bank's financial position."