1. Introduction to ABC Islamic Bank
ABC Islamic Bank (a subsidiary of the Arab Banking Corporation Group, Bahrain) is a fully Shariah-compliant financial institution headquartered in Manama, Bahrain. It offers retail, corporate, and investment banking solutions designed to meet Islamic financial standards.
Founded in 1987, ABC Islamic Bank has become one of the leading Islamic banks in the Middle East, providing ethical and transparent banking options to customers across Bahrain, the MENA region, and internationally.
The bank’s key philosophy is interest-free banking, where profit-sharing, risk management, and ethical investment form the foundation of all financial activities.
Website: https://www.arabbanking.com
2. Shariah Compliance and Islamic Banking Principles
ABC Islamic Bank operates strictly under Shariah Law, supervised by a Shariah Supervisory Board (SSB) to ensure all products align with Islamic finance ethics.
Core Islamic Banking Principles
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No Riba (Interest): All profit is earned through trade and investment, not interest-based lending.
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Risk-Sharing: Both bank and client share profit or loss depending on investment performance.
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Asset-Backed Financing: Loans and deposits are backed by tangible assets or projects.
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Ethical Investments: Funds are not invested in businesses involving alcohol, gambling, or speculative trading.
By following these principles, ABC Islamic Bank fosters social justice, financial inclusion, and sustainable development.
3. Types of Savings Accounts Offered by ABC Islamic Bank
1. Mudarabah Savings Account
This is the flagship savings product at ABC Islamic Bank, structured under the Mudarabah principle — a profit-sharing agreement between the depositor (Rab al Maal) and the bank (Mudarib).
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Profit-Sharing Ratio: Predetermined (e.g., 70:30 or 60:40, depending on balance).
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Minimum Deposit: Typically USD 100 or equivalent in local currency.
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Profit Distribution: Quarterly or semi-annually based on actual performance.
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Features:
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Shariah-compliant returns
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No fixed interest
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Access to online and mobile banking
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ATM and debit card facilities
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2. Current Account (Wadiah-based)
Ideal for daily transactions and businesses. Funds are accepted on a trust basis (Wadiah) and can be withdrawn anytime.
While not profit-bearing, the bank may offer Hibah (gift) at its discretion.
3. Investment Account
For customers seeking higher returns through asset-based investments. Funds are pooled and invested in approved ventures, with profits shared periodically.
4. Children’s Savings Account
Encourages financial literacy among youth, offering parental control and small deposit incentives.
💡 Note: All ABC Islamic Bank savings accounts come with deposit insurance coverage under Bahraini regulations.
4. Step-by-Step Process: How to Open an Account
Opening an account with ABC Islamic Bank is simple and can be done in-branch or online.
Documents Required
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Valid passport or Bahraini ID
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Proof of residence (utility bill or lease)
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Income proof (for salaried clients)
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CR documents (for businesses)
Steps to Open an Account
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Visit the nearest branch or log into the official website.
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Select the account type (Savings, Current, or Investment).
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Submit the required documents.
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Undergo Shariah compliance verification.
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Deposit the initial minimum balance.
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Activate your debit card and online access.
You can also request video verification or online onboarding for faster service.
Visit https://www.arabbanking.com/contact for the nearest branch and online application forms.
5. Loan and Financing Options (Shariah-Compliant)
ABC Islamic Bank offers a wide range of Shariah-compliant financing solutions designed for individuals and businesses.
1. Murabaha (Cost-Plus Sale Financing)
Used for purchasing assets, vehicles, or commodities.
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The bank buys the item and sells it to the customer at an agreed profit margin.
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Payments are made in installments.
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No hidden interest or compounding.
2. Ijara (Leasing Financing)
Ideal for property or vehicle acquisition.
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The bank purchases the asset and leases it to the client for a fixed term.
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Ownership is transferred after the final payment.
3. Musharakah (Joint Venture Financing)
A partnership model where both parties invest and share profit/loss based on contribution ratio.
4. Home Financing
ABC Islamic Bank provides home financing through Ijara or Diminishing Musharakah, allowing customers to own property gradually.
5. Business and Trade Finance
Shariah-compliant working capital facilities for SMEs and corporates through Murabaha and Wakalah structures.
6. Digital Banking Features & Online Services
ABC Islamic Bank integrates modern digital tools for convenience and security.
Mobile & Internet Banking
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Real-time fund transfers (local & international)
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Bill payment & mobile top-ups
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Instant account statements & profit reports
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Investment monitoring dashboard
Security Features
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Biometric login (face/fingerprint ID)
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Two-factor authentication
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24/7 fraud monitoring
Mobile App Benefits
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Available for iOS and Android
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Offers digital Mudarabah account opening
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24/7 customer support via live chat
Visit: https://www.arabbanking.com/en/digital-banking
7. Branches, ATMs & Contact Information
Head Office
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Location: ABC Tower, Manama, Bahrain
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Mailing Address: P.O. Box 11443, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
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Phone: +973 1753 3000
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Email: info@arabbanking.com
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SWIFT Code: ABCIBHBM
Branch Network
ABC Islamic Bank operates 8+ branches across Bahrain and the GCC region, including:
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Manama
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Muharraq
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Isa Town
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Riffa
Find all branch locations: https://www.arabbanking.com/contact
ATM Access
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24/7 ATMs at all branches
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Shared network with BenefitPay across Bahrain
8. Fees, Requirements & Eligibility
Eligibility Criteria
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Minimum age: 18 years
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Residents & non-residents eligible
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Must comply with anti-money-laundering (AML) policies
Common Fees
Service | Fee (Approx.) |
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Account Opening | Free |
Debit Card Annual Fee | USD 10–20 |
Account Maintenance | None (if active) |
Online Transfers (Domestic) | Free |
International Transfer | USD 15–25 |
Profit & Rate Notes
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Profit rates vary quarterly.
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All returns are based on Mudarabah performance, not guaranteed interest.
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For loans, profit margins depend on product type and repayment period.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What makes ABC Islamic Bank different from conventional banks?
A. ABC Islamic Bank operates under Islamic Shariah principles — avoiding interest and promoting profit-sharing and ethical finance.
Q2. What is the minimum balance required to open a savings account?
A. Typically, USD 100 (or local equivalent).
Q3. Does the bank offer debit and credit cards?
A. Yes, debit cards are available for all accounts. Credit cards are Shariah-compliant and based on Ujrah (service fee), not interest.
Q4. Are ABC Islamic Bank deposits safe?
A. Yes. All deposits are regulated and insured under the Central Bank of Bahrain’s framework.
Q5. Can expatriates open accounts at ABC Islamic Bank?
A. Yes. Non-residents and expatriates can open accounts with valid ID and proof of residence.
Q6. What financing options are available for businesses?
A. Business clients can access trade finance, Murabaha, Ijara, and working capital financing solutions.
Q7. How can I contact customer support?
A. Email: info@arabbanking.com | Phone: +973 1753 3000 | Website: https://www.arabbanking.com
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