Al Ansari Completes Acquisition of BFC Group Holdings
Consolidating its position as the largest non-banking financial institution in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in terms of branch network, Dubai-based Al Ansari Financial Services, one of the leading integrated financial services groups in the UAE and the parent of Al Ansari Exchange, on Thursday disclosed that it has completed the acquisition of BFC Group Holdings (BFC), after receiving all the required regulatory approvals.
This transformative $200 million transaction expands Al Ansari’s presence across Bahrain, Kuwait and India, increasing the Group’s customer base by 29% and branch network by 60%. The integration of BFC enhances AAFS’s operational scale and geographic diversification, creating substantial value for shareholders, customers, and employees.
Al Ansari has long been at the forefront of digital innovation in the financial services sector and with its award-winning Al Ansari Exchange app and a full suite of advanced digital solutions, the Group continues to lead the market in delivering seamless, secure, and customer-centric experiences.
It has also been actively integrating artificial intelligence across various business functions to enhance efficiency, personalisation, and fraud prevention. The Group now intends to replicate its digital model across BFC Group entities further strengthening AAFS’s position as a dominant digital-first player in the NBFI landscape.
Market Leadership
Al Ansari is now the largest non-banking financial services provider in the GCC, reinforcing its dominance in remittances and foreign exchange. The acquisition strengthens its regional footprint, securing a #1 market position in Bahrain, #3 in Kuwait, and access to a wider customer base in India, in addition to its leading position in the UAE remittance and foreign exchange market.
BFC’s fintech expertise and digital solutions complement Al Ansari’s growth strategy and current digital solutions, accelerating customer engagement. The integration of both companies is expected to benefit from economies of scale generating cost efficiencies, improving profitability and driving revenue growth.
The acquisition is immediately earnings-accretive, with EBITDA projected to grow by 20% and the operating income is estimated to increase 20%. The net profit after tax expected to grow by 13% and stronger cash flow generation is expected to enhance dividend distribution potential.
Rashed A. Al Ansari Group CEO of Al Ansari Financial Services said that the acquisition represents a pivotal step for the company, underscoring their dedication to regional growth, innovation and enhancing financial strength.
“We are confident that this move will deliver long-term value for our shareholders. Moreover, the anticipated boost in cash flow post-integration reinforces our commitment to providing strong returns for our investors,” he added.
Future Outlook
With a strengthened market position and an expanded footprint, Al Ansari is well-positioned to drive sustainable growth across key markets. The Group remains focused on unlocking new revenue streams, optimising operational efficiencies, and accelerating digital transformation. The acquisition of BFC is expected to unlock further opportunities for strategic partnerships, product innovation, and market penetration across key remittance corridors.
