ISLAMABAD – September 2025: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated Mashreq Digital Retail Bank in Islamabad, marking the launch of Pakistan’s second fully digital bank. The initiative is being hailed as a milestone in modernizing the country’s economy and promoting a cashless, paperless, and transparent financial system.
🇵🇰 A Big Step Toward Digital Pakistan
PM Shehbaz Sharif said digitalization is the need of the hour, emphasizing that reduced human involvement in banking processes will bring efficiency, transparency, and sustainable growth.
He noted that Pakistan’s youth — the country’s largest demographic — are its greatest strength and will benefit the most from innovative digital banking services.
🌍 UAE Partnership & Global Vision
The event was attended by:
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Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, Chairman, Mashreq
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Ahmed Abdelaal, Group CEO, Mashreq
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Aurangzeb Khan, Finance Minister of Pakistan
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Jameel Ahmad, Governor, State Bank of Pakistan
The UAE delegation praised Pakistan as a “strategic partner”, highlighting trade, remittances, and shared regional goals. Mashreq leaders said Pakistan was chosen as the first market for a full-scale digital retail bank due to its dynamic youth, growing fintech adoption, and progressive regulations.
💳 What Mashreq Bank Will Offer
Mashreq’s services will include:
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Mashreq NEO (for individuals)
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Mashreq NEOBiz (for SMEs)
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24/7 mobile-first banking
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Paperless onboarding
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Free debit cards
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Zero-fee ATM withdrawals
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AI-powered security
Overseas Pakistanis in the UAE will also be able to open accounts and remit funds seamlessly, improving cross-border financial connectivity.
📊 Impact on Pakistan’s Economy
Finance Minister Aurangzeb Khan said digital banking will:
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Boost remittances (the country’s lifeline)
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Strengthen SMEs and agriculture
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Improve job creation in fintech
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Enhance global confidence in Pakistan’s economy
Mashreq leaders added that their goal is to reshape Pakistan’s financial ecosystem, ensuring inclusion, transparency, and innovation.
✅ Key Takeaway
With Mashreq Digital Bank’s entry, Pakistan has taken a major leap toward digital finance. Experts believe this will:
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Empower youth
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Attract foreign investment
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Expand financial inclusion
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Position Pakistan as a regional fintech hub
The launch signals a new era of banking where Pakistanis — at home and abroad — can enjoy seamless, tech-driven financial services.
