Coinciding with the opening, FAB has also launched a cultural project which explores the creative and cultural ties between the UK and the UAE.

UAE’s global bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), has opened a London branch at 20 Berkeley Square. The new office celebrates FAB’s nearly five-decade presence in the UK and affirms the bank’s commitment to London as a key global financial hub, the firm said in a statement late last week.

The new office was officially opened by Hana Al Rostamani, group chief executive officer of FAB, in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Mohamed bin Saif Al Nahyan vice chairman of FAB, HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber FAB coard member, HE Mansoor Abulhoul, the UAE Ambassador to the UK, the Rt Hon Douglas Alexander MP, UK Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, alongside FAB board members, HE Sheikh Ahmed Mohammed Sultan S Aldhaheri, HE Mohammed Thani Murshed Ghannam Alrumaithi, and other dignitaries from the UAE and the UK.

FAB first established a presence in London in 1977, through its predecessor, the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD), becoming the first Gulf-based bank to operate in the UK. What began as a branch has since evolved into a key pillar within FAB’s global banking network, now spanning over 20 international markets.

Today, London remains central to the bank’s international strategy, serving institutional, and private clients, and enabling cross-border capital flows and innovation. The new London branch, located at 20 Berkeley Square in Mayfair, reflects the bank’s continued emphasis on client experience and trust, the firm added.

The new branch offers bespoke spaces designed to support private banking, corporate advisory, and tailored client services. It represents FAB’s ambition to integrate finance, innovation, and service within a single hub. Clients benefit from solutions that connect them to FAB’s global network, with particular strength across the MENA region. The private banking offering delivers comprehensive solutions for high net worth individuals, including wealth planning, portfolio management, and family office services, all enhanced by “seamless digital experiences.”

“In 1977, we became the first Gulf bank to open in the UK...The opening of our new London office is more than a relocation; it marks a strategic hub for the future of finance, a place where global insight meets regional expertise, and where innovation fosters lasting relationships,” Al Rostamani said. “The UK will remain a key market for FAB as we strengthen our international presence and deepen client engagement.”

The UAE remains the UK’s top Middle Eastern trading partner, with over 5,000 British firms active in the Emirates and growing collaboration across finance, green energy and innovation. FAB’s growing role in this bilateral relationship is reflected in recent milestones such as the bank’s $1.1 billion bond and sukuk listings on the London Stock Exchange in 2023, and its expanding global revenue base, with international operations now accounting for 17 per cent of group income.

Coinciding with the opening, FAB has launched a cultural project which explores the creative and cultural ties between the UK and the UAE. The campaign, featuring cinematic artist films and immersive storytelling showcases themes of identity, innovation and legacy, reinforcing the shared values between the UK and UAE and the role of art in building bridges between people and places, the firm added.