The National Bank of Egypt (NBE) is celebrating its 128th anniversary on 25 June 2026, marking more than a century of growth since its establishment in 1898 and reaffirming its position as a cornerstone of Egypt&rsquo;s banking sector. From becoming the first bank to issue banknotes in Egypt and serving as the country&rsquo;s central bank until 1960, to leading major national development projects and embracing digital transformation, NBE&rsquo;s journey mirrors the evolution of Egypt&rsquo;s modern economy. Today, the bank remains Egypt&rsquo;s oldest commercial bank and one of its most influential financial institutions, serving millions of customers while continuing to expand its digital capabilities and international reach. A Banking Giant at the Heart of Egypt&rsquo;s Economy Over the past 128 years, NBE has grown into the largest bank in Egypt by assets, deposits, loans, branch network, and number of employees. As of 2024, the bank operates 679 branches, offices and banking units nationwide, supported by a wide network of ATMs and point-of-sale terminals, making it one of the most accessible financial institutions in the country. NBE accounts for 74% of the credit card market and 40% of debit cards in Egypt, and has financed about 24% of Egypt&rsquo;s foreign trade. Digital Transformation Driving the Future While NBE&rsquo;s history stretches back more than a century, its focus is firmly on the future. Digital innovation has become a central pillar of the bank&rsquo;s strategy as it seeks to meet changing customer expectations and accelerate financial inclusion. Through platforms such as Al Ahly Net and NBE PhoneCash, customers can now complete a wide range of banking transactions remotely, reducing the need to visit branches and enhancing convenience. The bank has also introduced mobile branches equipped with modern digital solutions, extending banking services to communities across Egypt and supporting efforts to broaden access to financial services. As digital banking continues to grow, NBE has invested heavily in cybersecurity, data protection, and accessibility. Initiatives include Touch Cards and ATMs designed for visually impaired customers, reflecting its commitment to inclusive banking in line with international standards. Expanding Beyond Egypt&rsquo;s Borders Alongside its digital transformation efforts, NBE has continued to strengthen its international footprint, connecting Egyptian businesses and customers to global markets.
The bank operates subsidiaries in the United Kingdom and Sudan, including NBE Juba in South Sudan, as well as a branch in New York. This year, NBE marked 28 years as the only Egyptian bank operating in the United States. A major milestone came in October 2025 when NBE announced the soft opening of its first branch in Saudi Arabia, becoming the first Egyptian bank to establish a branch in the Kingdom on Feburary 2026. The move marked another step in the bank&rsquo;s regional expansion strategy and reinforced its growing presence in key international markets.&nbsp;
The bank&rsquo;s global operations are further supported by an extensive network of correspondent banks spanning Europe, North America, Africa, the Far East and the Gulf region. Connecting Egyptians Around the World NBE continues to play a leading role in facilitating remittances from Egyptians living abroad through its international banking network and partnerships with money transfer companies, fintech firms and financial institutions worldwide. The bank&rsquo;s global connectivity has helped strengthen financial links between Egypt and its expatriate communities while supporting foreign currency inflows and cross-border financial services. Looking Ahead As the National Bank of Egypt marks 128 years since its founding, the institution is celebrating not only a rich history but also a future shaped by innovation, digital transformation and international expansion. By combining its long-standing banking heritage with continued investment in technology, security and global connectivity, NBE is positioning itself to remain at the forefront of Egypt&rsquo;s financial sector for decades to come.&nbsp;
Photo Credit: The National Bank of Egypt's official page&nbsp;

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