Deciding on the “best” bank in Pakistan is not a one-size-fits-all situation. Mostly, this varies depending on what features you expect from a bank. Would you like to go for the better one in terms of branch networks, electronic services, Islamic banking, or any other needs?
Let’s go through a few of the top contenders and the services they step up for.
1. Habib Bank Limited (HBL)
First and foremost, HBL is the bank that is always referred to as the largest and the most ancient one in Pakistan. In the case that you are an individual who admires a wide coverage of branches and ATMs all over the country, then HBL is a tremendous choice.
They provide many services such as personal, corporate, Islamic, and digital banking. Their “HBL Mobile” app gives the impression of a very good and multifunctional app, as it offers multiple online banking options. Nonetheless, it has been pointed out that there are long lines of customers in some branches and that some services include monthly fees.
2. Meezan Bank
Meezan Bank, however, is the initial as well as the most extensive Islamic bank established in Pakistan, hence the best-suited option for those who prefer Islamic banking. Therefore, they provide a range of Shariah-compliant products and services.
Meezan Bank has been repeatedly acclaimed as the top bank in Pakistan, and they even managed to win the “Best Bank of Pakistan” award countless times. Their digital services and staff politeness receive high remarks from clients; hence, it is one of the very few places where Islamic banking is genuinely interest-free.
3. United Bank Limited (UBL)
UBL is also one of the major private sector banks in Pakistan, and they are also part of the country’s oldest and biggest banking groups. They have been lauded for their customer-centric approach and their strong commitment to digital banking.
Many users value UBL’s mobile app for its intuitive design and user-friendly functions. Besides, they are seen as reliable for both domestic and international transactions.
4. Allied Bank Limited (ABL)
Allied Bank has grown a name for itself in digital banking innovations, as well as for its customer-friendly approach. They have been awarded for their CRM technology and mobile app (“myABL”). ABL has earned a reputation as a trustworthy and responsive institution offering exclusive services to both residents and overseas Pakistanis (NRP services).
Furthermore, their vast branch and ATM network are a boon for the local people too.
5. Bank Alfalah
The fact that Bank Alfalah is a major force in the Pakistani banking sector is evident from its large number of branches. They are powerfully equated with their exceptional ability in order to serve the people and businesses that are part of international trade.
Customers generally find their branches to be good, though some have noted occasional issues with their app’s uptime.
6. MCB Bank Limited
This bank is popular for combining established practices with fresh solutions. They have embraced the digital way, such as “MCB Lite,” as the future and have been seen to be very strong in cybersecurity.
MCB is on the way to making its customers financially knowledgeable and empowered.
7. Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan
Being a global bank, Standard Chartered is mostly advised to people who engage in many international activities. The quality of their service has a global reputation, and it is known that their ATMs operate well with international cards.
As always, it will be an excellent step to visit a few of the branches, compare the services and fees, and take a look at their digital platforms before you make your final decision.