Hana Al Rostamani: Pioneering Leadership at First Abu Dhabi Bank
Hana Al Rostamani is a trailblazing leader in the banking sector, making history in 2021 as the first woman to become Group CEO of a U.A.E.-based bank. As the head of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest bank in the U.A.E. by market value and assets, she has played a pivotal role in driving financial growth, innovation, and strategic global partnerships.
Transforming First Abu Dhabi Bank
Under Al Rostamani’s leadership, FAB has cemented its position as a financial powerhouse in the Middle East. The bank reported an impressive $4.5 billion in net profit in 2023, reflecting its strong market performance and strategic vision. By March 2024, FAB’s total assets had soared to $336.3 billion, reinforcing its status as a key player in the regional and global banking landscape.
Recognizing the importance of digital transformation, Al Rostamani has spearheaded initiatives aimed at integrating AI and financial technology into banking operations. In April 2024, FAB signed a strategic business partnership with Microsoft to launch an AI Innovation Hub for financial services, marking a significant step towards the future of smart banking and digital finance.
A Trailblazing Career
Hana Al Rostamani’s rise to the top of the banking industry is a testament to her strategic acumen, leadership, and forward-thinking approach. Before becoming Group CEO of FAB, she held various senior leadership roles within the bank, where she played a crucial role in enhancing customer-centric banking, digital transformation, and global expansion efforts.
Her expertise and influence extend beyond FAB, as she serves as a board member of Buna and the Institute of International Finance. Additionally, she holds the esteemed position of Vice Co-Chairman of the U.S.-U.A.E. Business Council, further strengthening economic ties and cross-border collaborations between the two nations.
Shaping the Future of Banking
Al Rostamani’s leadership is defined by innovation, inclusivity, and strategic foresight. By championing technology-driven banking solutions and fostering international partnerships, she is ensuring that FAB remains at the forefront of the evolving financial sector.
Her success as a female leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry is also an inspiration, paving the way for greater gender diversity in the banking and finance sector across the Middle East and beyond.
Hana Al Rostamani’s tenure as Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank has been marked by record-breaking financial growth, transformative digital initiatives, and impactful global partnerships. Her vision and leadership continue to shape the future of banking, not just in the U.A.E. but on a global scale.
As FAB continues to expand its influence, Al Rostamani remains at the helm, driving innovation and setting new benchmarks for the banking industry worldwide.
