UAE’s Two Major Banks Report Record Profits in Q1-2025

In confirmation of the UAE’s robust economic fundamentals, two major banks in the UAE- First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) – have posted record profits for the first three months of this year.

FAB’s profit before tax stood at $1.67 billion, up 22% y-o-y, and net profit after tax was $1.4 billion, while the Group revenue increased by 11% to $2.41 billion, and total assets crossed $350 billion mark. The bank’s performance driven by solid business momentum, resilient NIMs, and diversified income streams across divisions, geographies and sources of income during the quarter.

Commenting on the results, FAB’s Group CEO Hana Al Rostamani said that the bank delivered a strong performance in Q1-2025, which was supported by sustained growth momentum across its business segments and international franchise.

FAB continues to execute on its strategic priorities capitalising on the growth of the UAE economy and across the international footprint. It expanded the business in Investment Banking & Markets, in Wholesale Banking, in Personal, Business, Wealth and Privileged Client Banking Group, as well as in our international branches.

“FAB maintains its leading position as the UAE’s global bank with a robust balance sheet and total assets now over $350 billion. Our return on tangible equity increased to 20.4% and remains consistently focused on value creation across the cycles. The bank remains well-capitalised, with strong liquidity and asset quality supporting our long-term resilience,” she said.

The bank will continue to leverage innovation and AI technology to enhance productivity, predictive analysis and customer experience and service. During the quarter, it has taken further steps to embed AI in board engagement, by introducing an AI agent to the FAB’s first board meeting of the year, she pointed out.

“FAB’s Q1 2025 performance positions the bank for sustainable growth. As we look to the future, we will continue to leverage our strengths to drive innovation and customer experience and remain focused on delivering consistent value to our clients and strong, sustainable returns to our shareholders,” she added.

ADCB Record Growth

Coming to ADCB, the bank reported growth for the 15^th consecutive quarter of growth, which rose 20% y-o-y to $790 million, marked by high-quality growth across core businesses. The first-quarter net profit after tax was $670 million, delivering a return on average equity of 13.7%.

ADCB’s net interest income increased bvy 3% to $920 million and non-interest income of $440 million increased 26%. The operating income of $1.36 billion too increased 9% and the total assets stood at $185.13 billion, an increase of 14% y-o-y and 4% q-o-q.

While the net loans of $97.74 million were up by 13% y-o-y, the total customer deposits of $120.34 billion increased 15% y-o-y ($15.79 billion) and 5% q-o-q ($5.72 billion).