Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has appointed Hakim Karoui as Global Head of its Wholesale Banking Group (WBG). With this move, the bank aims to accelerate growth and strengthen its corporate and institutional banking capabilities.
Karoui will lead ADIB’s wholesale banking operations globally. Moreover, he will drive the expansion of corporate and institutional offerings, focusing on integrated financial solutions across key sectors.
Leadership Backed by Nearly Three Decades of Experience
Karoui brings over 27 years of experience in global banking and financial services. His expertise spans corporate and investment banking, capital markets, transaction banking, and risk management.
Before joining ADIB, he served as Managing Director and Co-Head of Global Corporate and Investment Banking for MENA at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in Dubai. He held this role for more than a decade, where he advised major regional clients. Earlier, Karoui spent over ten years at Citigroup, taking on senior leadership roles across the Middle East and Africa. As a result, he developed a strong understanding of both regional dynamics and global financial markets.
Strengthening Wholesale Banking Capabilities
In his new role, Karoui will focus on scaling ADIB’s wholesale banking business. He will also work on enhancing product offerings and improving client engagement.
Commenting on the appointment, Group CEO Mohamed Abdelbary said Karoui’s leadership will play a key role in strengthening the bank’s wholesale banking division. Additionally, he highlighted Karoui’s deep expertise and strong regional insights as critical to driving future growth.
Aligning with ADIB’s Vision 2035 Strategy
The appointment comes at a time when ADIB is advancing its long-term Vision 2035 strategy. The bank aims to expand its market presence while improving operational efficiency and innovation.
Furthermore, ADIB continues to position itself as a key partner in supporting the UAE’s economic diversification. By strengthening its wholesale banking arm, the bank plans to better serve corporate clients and large institutions.
ADIB’s Growing Global Footprint
Founded in 1997, ADIB has grown into one of the UAE’s leading Islamic banks, with assets of AED 281 billion. Today, it operates across six key markets, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Qatar, and Iraq.
In addition, the bank continues to invest in digital innovation and customer-centric solutions. Its offerings span retail, corporate, private banking, and wealth management. Notably, ADIB has received global recognition, including being named the World’s Best Islamic Bank by The Banker, part of the Financial Times group.