Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait Group Increases Authorized Capital to KD 600 Million

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 17, 2026

Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait Group increased its authorized capital from KD 274.865 million to KD 600 million, allowing for a greater number of shares and enhanced capacity for future capital raises. This move gives the bank increased flexibility to support growth initiatives, streamline funding processes, and execute its five-year strategy while maintaining strong governance and risk management.

Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait Group (ABK Group) has increased its authorized capital from KD 274.865 million to KD 600 million, a decision approved by the bank’s Extraordinary General Assembly on September 16 at its headquarters in Kuwait City. The capital is now divided into 6 billion shares with a nominal value of 100 fils each.

The move provides ABK Group’s Board of Directors with the authority to raise the issued and fully paid-up capital within the limits of the new authorized capital. The board can call for capital increases in one or more installments, determine subscription terms, and manage the associated trading and distribution periods, subject to regulatory approvals and in compliance with relevant laws. Shareholders will retain the right of priority to subscribe to any cash capital increase proportional to their existing shares, with an initial subscription period of no less than 15 days, which can be extended at the board’s discretion. Unsold shares may then be allocated to existing or new investors under established legal provisions.

The bank’s governance documents were also amended to reflect the capital increase and refine its operational scope. Article 4 of ABK’s Articles of Association was updated to state the bank’s focus as “Conventional banks,” replacing previous wording that broadly described its commercial banking activities. Amendments to Articles 5 and 6 specify the authorized capital amount and clarify the status of issued and paid-up shares.

The General Assembly, attended by nearly 87% of shareholders and chaired by Group Chairman Talal Mohammed Reza Behbehani, also included participation from Group Chief Executive Officer Giel-Jan M. Van Der Tol.

Behbehani described the increase in authorized capital as a key step in positioning the group for future growth and expansion. He emphasized that the KD 600 million figure represents a maximum ceiling, not an immediate obligation to issue additional shares. According to him, the decision enhances the bank’s long-term strength and flexibility, allowing it to respond efficiently to growth opportunities or regulatory changes while supporting the execution of its upcoming five-year strategy.

Van Der Tol highlighted the operational benefits of raising the authorized capital limit, noting it grants management greater agility to pursue capital increases or issue new shares without the delays typically associated with obtaining shareholder approval each time. He stated that this preparedness will enable ABK Group to better support project financing initiatives both domestically and in its regional markets.

The CEO reaffirmed the group’s commitment to maintaining prudent governance standards, risk management, and sustainable growth. He also pointed to ongoing investments in technology, including digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence, aimed at enhancing financial product offerings and customer experience. Van Der Tol outlined the bank’s objective to strengthen its competitive position in Kuwait’s banking sector while continuing to support economic development in Kuwait and beyond.

Both Behbehani and Van Der Tol expressed appreciation for the continued support of regulatory authorities in Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, as well as gratitude to shareholders and employees for their confidence and dedication in advancing the bank’s strategic goals.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.