First Abu Dhabi Bank posts robust H1 2026 results with AED 10.73bn net profit
First Abu Dhabi Bank posts H1 2026 operating income AED19.50bn (+7%) and net profit AED10.73bn; assets AED1.41trn; credit ratings reaffirmed AA-; stable view.
First Abu Dhabi Bank reported a strong first half of 2026, with operating income rising 7% year‑on‑year to AED 19.50 billion and net profit reaching AED 10.73 billion. The results underline the resilience of First Abu Dhabi Bank’s diversified business model and sustained client activity across its core franchises. Return on tangible equity stood at 18.5%, comfortably above the group’s medium‑term guidance, reflecting both higher revenues and disciplined cost management.
H1 2026 headline figures
First Abu Dhabi Bank’s profit before tax for the six months ended June 2026 rose 3% year‑on‑year to AED 13.20 billion, driven by broad‑based revenue growth. Net interest income grew 14% to AED 11.48 billion, while non‑interest income remained robust at AED 8.02 billion, contributing 41% of total operating income.
Quarterly momentum and operating profit
The second quarter delivered notable momentum, with profit before tax of AED 7.08 billion, up 16% from the prior quarter and 6% compared with Q2 2025. Operating profit in Q2 exceeded AED 8.0 billion, an increase of 11% sequentially, supported by improved margins and higher transaction volumes across client segments.
Revenue mix and margin drivers
Revenue growth was underpinned by a combination of expanded lending activity and favourable market conditions for the bank’s investment portfolio, which supported fee and trading income. The bank highlighted that disciplined cost control and favourable interest rate dynamics contributed to margin improvement and a healthier mix between interest and non‑interest revenues.
Balance sheet growth and liquidity
First Abu Dhabi Bank’s balance sheet expanded modestly in the first half, with total assets rising 2% year‑to‑date to AED 1.41 trillion at end‑June 2026. Net loans and advances increased 7% since the start of the year to AED 661 billion, reflecting broad‑based lending growth across corporate, commercial and consumer segments, while customer deposits edged up 1% to AED 853 billion.
Capital, credit ratings and risk profile
The group reinforced its financial strength during the period and had its credit ratings reaffirmed at AA‑ (or equivalent) by Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s, each with a stable outlook. Management noted that the rating actions reflect confidence in the bank’s business franchise and the effectiveness of its risk management framework amid continuing economic transitions.
Management commentary on performance
Group Chief Executive Hanaa Al Rostamani said the H1 2026 performance demonstrates the scale and diversity of the franchise and the bank’s ability to deliver consistent returns through disciplined execution of strategy. Chief Financial Officer Lars Kramer described Q2 as a peak quarter, citing strong client activity, improving margins and favourable market conditions that supported investment portfolio returns while the bank maintained strict cost discipline.
Looking ahead, First Abu Dhabi Bank signalled continued focus on sustaining earnings quality, supporting client growth across the region, and preserving strong capital and liquidity positions. The bank expects to remain attentive to market developments while pursuing opportunities to grow lending and fee‑based businesses that enhance long‑term shareholder returns.
