The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has marked a major digital milestone, becoming the first bank in the kingdom to fully adopt the new digital Know Your Customer (KYC) service for new customers using the cutting-edge eKey for Business (EKEY-B) platform.
The move, in partnership with Beyon Connect, a subsidiary of Beyon Group, allows new customers to instantly open accounts via the NBB Digital App.
This integration of EKEY-B – Bahrain’s enhanced national digital identity authentication system – streamlines the account opening process and delivers a seamless, secure, and instant experience safeguarded by regulatory-grade security.
NBB chief executive for retail banking Subah Al Zayani highlighted the benefit to customers. “By introducing EKEY-B on our banking app, we are making banking faster, safer, and more accessible – directly addressing the evolving needs of our customers,” he said.
Beyon Connect chief executive officer Christopher Hild stressed the importance of trust and security in the financial sector, noting that EKEY-B helps institutions meet regulatory needs while delivering “faster, smarter services.”
The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) praised NBB’s proactive adoption, with deputy chief of operations and governance Dr Khalid Al Mutawa noting that the integration is a success story for public and private sector collaboration, enhancing service efficiency while ensuring the highest standards of data protection.
NBB said this digital investment reinforces its mission to make banking more responsive and efficient while aligning with its strategy for customer experience excellence and high compliance standards.