Mohammed Al-Othman, CEO of Consumer and Digital Banking at National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), participated in the Dubai FinTech Summit 2025, discussing the rapid evolution of banking and the role of innovation in reshaping the financial industry. The summit, held from May 12 to 13, brought together global leaders from the financial sector to explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities in fintech.
Al-Othman took part in a panel discussion on the transformation of the banking sector and the future of financial technology, emphasizing NBK’s leadership in digital banking. He highlighted the bank’s commitment to embracing the latest technologies to deliver exceptional services, surpassing customer expectations, and fostering innovation across the banking sector in Kuwait and beyond.
Under Al-Othman’s leadership, NBK has launched a range of digital products that redefine the banking experience, focusing on AI and data analytics to offer greater value to customers. He stressed that NBK views the rapid changes in fintech not as challenges, but as opportunities to sharpen its competitive edge.
Weyay, Kuwait’s first fully digital bank, stands as a testament to NBK’s forward-thinking strategy. Launched in 2021, Weyay has quickly become a market leader by offering innovative services tailored to younger generations, including a seamless, 24/7 banking experience. Al-Othman noted that Weyay’s success is a direct result of NBK’s vision and strategic investments in technology.
Al-Othman also spoke about the collaboration between banks and fintech startups, emphasizing that NBK views fintech firms as partners in innovation, rather than competitors. This collaboration is key to driving digital transformation and creating a thriving financial ecosystem in Kuwait.
He further discussed the role of the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) in creating a supportive regulatory environment that fosters innovation. CBK’s efforts have helped accelerate digital transformation, enabling NBK to adopt cutting-edge digital solutions more effectively.
Al-Othman highlighted the launch of the “Jeel” card, a product designed specifically for youth aged 8 to 14, aimed at promoting financial literacy and responsibility. The card combines simplicity with smart features, providing young customers with a personalized and user-friendly banking experience.
Looking ahead, Al-Othman predicted that developments in data analytics, AI, and cybersecurity would drive the next wave of banking innovation. NBK is well-positioned to lead in this space, with a strong commitment to delivering secure, advanced banking solutions that align with customer needs and contribute to economic growth in Kuwait and the region.
Recently, Al-Othman was named MENA Retail Banker of the Year for the fourth consecutive year at the 2025 Banking Excellence Awards by MEED magazine, further cementing his leadership in the banking sector.
