This article was originally published in the Brand Finance Banking 500 Journal 2026.
Interview with Heba Al-Tamimi, Senior Executive Vice President, Group Communications, QNB Group
Senior Executive Vice President, Group Communications
QNB Group
What would you consider as the defining moments or milestones in building and strengthening the QNB brand?
The QNB brand has evolved through deliberate, performance-led decisions focused on scale, resilience and longterm growth.
One of the most defining moments was our transformation from a strong Qatari bank into a diversified international banking group operating across the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia (MEASEA). That expansion was not about footprint alone, it was about building a globally connected platform that facilitates cross-border trade, investment and capital flows, and positioning QNB as a trusted financial partner across key growth markets.
Strengthening our capital base and balance sheet resilience has been equally important. Maintaining strong credit ratings and disciplined risk management has reinforced confidence in the brand and enabled us to support governments, corporates and individuals consistently through economic cycles.
Digital transformation has also been a defining chapter. Through sustained investment in technology, fintech collaboration and advanced analytics, we have enhanced customer experience, improved efficiency and accelerated digital adoption across our network. All of this is in line with our commitment to operational excellence.
At the same time, embedding sustainability at the core of our strategy has shaped the modern QNB brand. By integrating environmental and social considerations into our financing and risk frameworks, we continue to reinforce our role as a responsible institution supporting long-term economic development.
Ultimately, these milestones have translated into measurable brand strength. Today, QNB’s brand value exceeds USD10 billion, independently validated by Brand Finance, positioning the Group as the most valuable banking brand in the Middle East and Africa.
What role does sustainability / ESG play in your industry and for your brand?
Sustainability has become central to the banking industry, shaping how capital is allocated, risks are managed and long-term value is created. At QNB, ESG is embedded in our strategy, governance and financing activities rather than being treated as a separate initiative.
We integrate environmental and social considerations across our credit framework and investment decisions while actively expanding our sustainable finance solutions. In 2025, our sustainable finance portfolio surpassed USD11.4 billion, up 18% yearon- year, supported by 39 dedicated sustainable products and services under our Sustainable Finance and Product Framework. This leadership has been recognised through multiple Sustainable Finance awards.
We have also formalised our Groupwide climate strategy and commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050, aligning with global best practices and stakeholder expectations. Beyond finance, for us sustainability includes responsible operations, strong governance, financial inclusion and community development across the markets we serve.
ESG strengthens our brand by building trust and supporting longterm economic resilience across our international markets. It is a strategic imperative for sustainable brand strength.
What future plans and strategies does QNB have in place to further strengthen its brand and continue the growth of its brand value?
QNB’s brand strategy remains closely aligned with our mission, vision and ambition to become a leading bank across international markets, while maintaining our leadership position in the Middle East and Africa.
Internationally, we will continue leveraging our diversified network to strengthen QNB’s role as a connectivity driven financial partner facilitating trade, investment and capital flows across key growth corridors. Deepening sector expertise and cross-border capabilities will further reinforce our institutional relevance.
Digital innovation will remain central to brand differentiation. Continued investment in fintech partnerships, advanced analytics and customer centric platforms will enhance service quality, speed and accessibility.
At the same time, high-impact partnerships across sports, national platforms and education will support engagement and long-term market relevance, while sustainability remains embedded across all activities through expanded sustainable finance solutions and responsible growth initiatives.
Ultimately, brand value reflects consistent performance, trust and strategic clarity.
Through disciplined execution, innovation and long-term value creation, QNB will continue strengthening its position as a leading financial institution delivering sustainable profitable growth and enhanced shareholder value.
The Group's success is attributed to its sound governance, prudent risk management, and continuous improvement, complemented by technological innovation.
As QNB celebrates 60 years of excellence, it remains dedicated to promoting prosperity and sustainable growth across its markets, aligning with Qatar's broader economic and Soft Power objectives.
