DOHA: Expecting influx of new arrivals during the month of September, Commercial Bank has announced a number of enhancements to its existing “Life in Qatar” initiative which provides tailored banking services for expats arriving in Qatar for the first time.
Commercial Bank was the first bank in Qatar to launch a unique banking service for new arrivals and “Life in Qatar” is designed to reduce the stress of relocation by helping expats settle in faster.
With “Life in Qatar”, expats can open a bank account before they arrive and send money in advance to cover initial expenses when they land.
The service can be accessed via Commercial Bank’s dedicated website, www.lifeinqatar.com, which provides reliable information on many of the other hurdles people face when relocating. For Sadara eligible customers, their privileged journey begins with a personalised airport collection service.
Upon arrival, customers can get their Commercial Bank account up and running within 24 hours, receive a credit card pre-loaded with up to QR2,000 and get connected with a free mobile phone and Vodafone SIM card. Customers also enjoy exclusive hospitality offers on their first two nights stay at two of the best hotels in Doha.
“Life in Qatar” benefits also continue long after arrival, as customers are eligible for free international money transfers every month if they bank online; a free executive service to find a home; up to 30 percent discount on car rental; a “buy now and pay later” promotion at Ikea stores; and discounts at B/Attitude spa in Doha.
“Life in Qatar” customers also have access to pre-approved personal and car loans to help make essential first purchases and purchase their new car.
From September 1 to 22, Commercial Bank will be hosting a “Life in Qatar” kiosk at Landmark Mall with helpful information kits available including a mini explorer guide, A-Z card with useful Arabic phrases, emergency contact numbers and a free ID photo service.
A “Life in Qatar” kiosk will also be present at Ikea throughout the autumn.
As an added incentive to use the “Life in Qatar” service, customers who open their bank account and transfer their first salary are automatically entered into a prize draw to win a new Nissan Pathfinder.
“We are continuously looking to help our new customers settle in quickly and make Qatar feel like home. Commercial Bank’s Life in Qatar is a first-to-market service and provides the most comprehensive range of benefits available to mean that everything is sorted for expats before they even arrive,” said Dean Proctor, EGM Retail and Consumer Banking Commercial Bank.
Commercial Bank has total assets of QR112bn as on June 30, 2014. As a full service commercial bank, the Bank offers a full range of corporate, retail and investment banking services as well as owning and operating exclusive Diners Club franchises in Qatar and Oman. The Bank’s countrywide network includes 34 full service branches and 150 ATMs.
The Peninsula
