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Al Ansari enters Western Union Partnerships in Bahrain and Kuwait

Al Ansari Financial Services, a leading financial institution in the GCC, has strengthened its regional cross-border payments platform through new partnerships between its subsidiaries, Bahrain Financing Company (BFC) in Bahrain and Bahrain Exchange Company (BEC) in Kuwait with Western Union.

The partnerships broaden customer access to Western Union's global money transfer network spanning more than 200 countries and territories, through BFC and BEC's extensive branch networks, reinforcing the group's commitment to delivering secure, and seamless reliable international cross-border payment solutions across key GCC markets, said a company statement.

In Bahrain, BFC customers will benefit from access to Western Union's services through the company's nationwide network of 54 branches. In Kuwait, customers can access Western Union's international money transfer services through BEC Kuwait's network of 53 branches, including locations at Kuwait International Airport.

Customers will benefit from seamless access to international money transfer services through trusted local brands, and enjoy faster transaction times, and enhanced digital capabilities, providing greater convenience, flexibility, and reliability.

The expansion comes amid sustained demand for cross-border payment services across the GCC, driven by increasing regional mobility, expanding trade, and the continued importance of international remittances for individuals, families, and businesses.

Mohammad Bitar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Ansari Financial Services, said: "These partnerships represent another important step in executing our regional growth strategy by strengthening the capabilities of our subsidiaries and expanding the financial solutions available to customers across the GCC. By combining the trusted local presence of BFC and BEC with Western Union's extensive global network, we are enhancing our remittance proposition while providing customers with greater convenience, accessibility, and choice when transferring money internationally."

Nicolas Levi, Regional Vice President, Head of Middle East, Pakistan and Afghanistan at Western Union, said: "We are pleased to expand our collaboration with Al Ansari Financial Services through its established subsidiaries in Bahrain and Kuwait. By combining Western Union's global money transfer network with the strong local presence of BFC and BEC, we are making it easier for customers to send money internationally and connect with their families across the world through trusted, convenient, and reliable channels while supporting the region's growing demand for cross-border payment services