Wio Bank advances six places, nearing the Arab top 50
Mahynar Mohamed
First Bank’s ranking of the 100 largest Arab banks at end-June 2026 revealed a six-place advance by UAE digital lender Wio Bank, bringing it closer to the top 50 in a ranking largely occupied by established traditional banks.
Wio Bank climbed six places during the first half of 2026 to rank 53rd at end-June, up from 59th at end-2025, leaving it just three places short of the top 50 Arab banks.
The advance was primarily driven by strong asset growth of approximately 13 per cent during the first half of the year. Total assets reached USD 18.74bn at end-June 2026, compared with USD 16.63bn at end-2025, an increase of around USD 2.11bn in just six months.
The expansion highlights Wio Bank’s ability to grow its asset base at a pace that has improved its position in the Arab banking landscape, particularly in a segment of the ranking occupied by established traditional banks with extensive operating networks.
Wio Bank’s six-place advance to 53rd brings it closer to the Arab top 50, highlighting the growing presence of digital banking in a market led by established traditional lenders. Sustaining its asset growth will be key to further gains in the second half of 2026.
