Doha Bank launches Al Riyada bespoke services for priority customers

Doha Bank today said that it has sharpened its focus on priority banking and has launched an exclusive bespoke service – Al Riyada – an initiative that will meet the increasingly sophisticated requirements of its elite customers.

The bank said in a statement that Al Riyada has been launched in line with the recent exponential expansion in priority banking across the world as a strategic tool to increase preference among elite customers and to catalyse sustainable growth.

Announcing the service, Mr. R. Seetharaman, Doha Bank Group CEO said the service comes with unparalleled differentiators. "Al Riyada will bestow personalized banking services in alignment with exacting service standards. It will be round-the-clock with a dedicated Relationship Manager allotted to customers."

"Clients will be rewarded with priority and concessions even when it comes to the slightest facet of servicing such as waiting in queue, valet parking and discounts. Al Riyada will have the highest level of reliability and confidentiality wrapped in exclusivity so that the customer will have a comprehensive guidance at every stage of banking activity," he said.

Mr. Seetharaman said that the new banking environment is about differentiation with an augmented accessibility and choice, but personalization of services remains the leverage for the pursuit of success in servicing elite clients.

"No doubt the latest global financial crisis has impacted priority banking worldwide, but as far as local banks are concerned, the strong regulatory authorities and the fast and decisive actions by Central Banks locally and in the region have promoted a positive feeling of confidence and a higher poise and trust for the banks. In fact, banks are heavily competing to acquire and retain elite customers," he added.

Mr. Nabil Tabbara, Executive Manager, Retail Banking Department said: "Al Riyada is different in its core value. It is designed to deliver exceptional customer experience with sincerity, conviction, ease of service and transparency to customers. In fact, we have recruited highly qualified staff capable of delivering cutting-edge service to our existing and new customers."

Mr. Tabbara Added: "Our enthusiastic team of professionals will strive to manage all customer transactions and cater to their individualistic requirements efficiently in a pleasing environment at Al Riyada centers. Al Riyada is customized banking at ease and convenience, founded on the profound understanding of customers' unique needs."

Elaborating on the service, Mr. Khaled Jassim Al-Jaber said: "Priority banking is geared towards an elite core of high net worth clients who obviously could afford personal investment advisors. We are clear at Doha Bank to offer unbiased and professional advice with Al Riyada with no supplementary charge."

"At Al Riyada, we capitalize on servicing clients who have a strong attachment based on trust, respect and ultimately loyalty for the bank. We are geared to maximize clients' returns, but we are espousing capital preservation oriented strategies with undoubtedly less risk disclosure. However, personalized services also are determined by the clients' individualistic needs and preferences," he said.

On the operational aspect of Al Riyada, Mrs. Rim El Hajjeh, Head of Al Riyada Unit said: "We are attentive to the surroundings necessary in recognizing the privileged status of Al Riyada clients. So, we have plans for expanding the number of centers dedicated for this service. As a matter of fact, Al Riyada will be headquartered at Doha Bank tower starting February 2011 and will comprise five centers by the end of 2011. Our services will benefit senior staff of government and semi government companies, private companies, senior professionals and esteemed individuals who deserve this exclusive service. Al Riyada customers will receive a special pack with an exclusive Debit Platinum card and visa Infinite Card in addition to a specially designed checkbook and a variety of other preferential services. Al Riyada is provided by invitation and via personal visits to our existing and potential customers."

Doha Bank said that currently the services are being provided through the main branch at Grand Hamad Avenue and Mushaireb Branch next to Doha Petrol Station. Customers could also join Al Riyada through any Doha Bank Branch or by calling 44456569.