The UAE has issued in-principle approval for a new AI-enabled digital banking venture aimed at offering next-generation financial services nationwide.
“Mint Gateway” and “Alternative Venture Capital”, part of Abu Dhabi Capital Group, confirmed that the Central Bank of the UAE has authorised plans to launch “Omla Community Bank”, which will be based in Umm Al Quwain and serve customers across all seven emirates.
The upcoming bank is set to introduce an AI-centric digital banking framework centred on financial inclusion, SME development and intelligent automation, supporting the UAE’s broader push towards a technology-driven economy and fintech expansion.
Representing the founding shareholders, Abdulrazzaq Al Abdulla described the approval as a significant strategic achievement for the venture.
He stated that the project is intended to transform financial services in the UAE through the integration of artificial intelligence, advanced digital systems and automation-led technologies.
According to Al Abdulla, “Omla Community Bank” has been developed as an AI-first institution, embedding artificial intelligence into customer interactions, governance, compliance, cybersecurity, risk controls and core banking operations.
The initiative seeks to expand access to affordable and streamlined financial services for individuals, families, entrepreneurs, workers, and micro, small and medium-sized businesses.
Al Abdulla added that the bank’s broader vision goes beyond conventional banking by building an integrated financial ecosystem supporting sectors such as housing, education, healthcare, transport, food, retail and public services through AI-powered financial solutions.
He further noted that the institution intends to implement a “No Tie Policy” work culture to promote flexibility, innovation and stronger customer connectivity.
The founding shareholders said the project brings together strategic capital, industry expertise and a long-term growth outlook to create a future-ready community banking platform aligned with the UAE’s ambitions for financial innovation and responsible AI integration.
