QNB Enhances Banking Access for Elderly and Individuals with Disabilities

QNB Group is taking significant steps to improve banking services for the elderly and individuals with special needs. The initiative aims to enhance financial inclusion and ensure that these groups can conduct their financial transactions with ease and security. The bank is developing specialized facilities and products designed to meet their unique needs.

The group is committed to providing comprehensive banking services in Qatar and across its international network, which spans over 28 countries across three continents. This commitment is part of a broader strategy to empower these individuals as valuable contributors to society.

Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion

Yousef Mahmoud Al-Neama, Group Chief Business Officer, emphasized the bank’s dedication to facilitating convenient access to its services for the elderly and those with disabilities. “We are constantly developing the services we provide and training our employees on how to interact and communicate effectively with this segment of customers,” he stated. Al-Neama highlighted the importance of adhering to the highest quality standards in customer service.

To improve the banking experience, QNB has implemented various facilities across its branches and electronic channels. This includes the launch of a special pensioner loan at the beginning of this year, offering a 0% interest rate and a loan value of up to QR300,000 for Qatari retirees. This initiative was made possible in collaboration with the General Retirement and Social Insurance Authority (GRSIA).

Innovative Products and Community Support

QNB also offers a range of insurance products tailored for elderly customers through its international branches. One notable offering is the Al Rafiq Retirement Program from QNB Egypt Life Insurance, which provides a savings and investment package aimed at ensuring financial stability during retirement.

In addition to financial products, QNB has developed partnerships with organizations focused on elderly care. The bank has supported the Center for Empowerment and Elderly Care (Ehsan) since 2015, reinforcing its commitment to social integration and support for this demographic.

Since 2009, QNB has introduced several innovative services, such as equipping ATMs with Braille keyboards and audio guidance systems to assist customers with visual and hearing impairments. These ATMs comprise approximately 5% of the total number of machines, allowing for secure and convenient transactions.

Furthermore, all bank branches feature dedicated entrances for wheelchair access, designated parking spaces for those with special needs, and signage designed to assist visually impaired customers. Emergency protocols and priority queuing systems have also been established to enhance service delivery.

QNB’s ongoing efforts in this area reflect its commitment to the Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of integrating all community members into societal activities. The bank continues to support various programs, including the “Empowering People with Special Needs Through Small Projects Program,” launched by the Department of the Elderly and People with Special Needs at the Ministry of Social Affairs.

Recently, QNB initiated an early intervention therapeutic program in partnership with the Qatar Autism Society. This program aims to support children with autism spectrum disorder and their families, facilitating their integration and learning from an early age.

Through these concerted efforts, QNB Group is not only enhancing access to banking services but is also fostering a more inclusive society where the elderly and individuals with special needs can thrive as active participants in community development.