Partnerships strengthen the Group’s cross-border payments platform and expand customer access to international money transfer services across the GCC
Dubai, UAE, July 2026 – Al Ansari Financial Services PJSC DFM: ALANSARI, the leading financial institution in the GCC, has strengthened its regional cross-border payments platform through new partnerships between its subsidiaries, Bahrain Financing Company BFC in Bahrain and Bahrain Exchange Company W.L.L. BEC in Kuwait with Western Union.
The partnerships broaden customer access to Western Union’s global money transfer network spanning more than 200 countries and territories, through BFC and BEC’s extensive branch networks, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to delivering secure, and seamless reliable international cross-border payment solutions across key GCC markets.
In Bahrain, BFC customers will benefit from access to Western Union’s services through the company’s nationwide network of 54 branches. In Kuwait, customers can access Western Union’s international money transfer services through BEC Kuwait’s network of 53 branches, including locations at Kuwait International Airport.
Customers will benefit from seamless access to international money transfer services through trusted local brands, and enjoy faster transaction times, and enhanced digital capabilities, providing greater convenience, flexibility, and reliability.
The expansion comes amid sustained demand for cross-border payment services across the GCC, driven by increasing regional mobility, expanding trade, and the continued importance of international remittances for individuals, families, and businesses.
Commenting on the expansion, Mohammad Bitar, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Ansari Financial Services, said: “These partnerships represent another important step in executing our regional growth strategy by strengthening the capabilities of our subsidiaries and expanding the financial solutions available to customers across the GCC. By combining the trusted local presence of BFC and BEC with Western Union’s extensive global network, we are enhancing our remittance proposition while providing customers with greater convenience, accessibility, and choice when transferring money internationally.”
Nicolas Levi, Regional Vice President, Head of Middle East, Pakistan and Afghanistan at Western Union, said: “We are pleased to expand our collaboration with Al Ansari Financial Services through its established subsidiaries in Bahrain and Kuwait. By combining Western Union’s global money transfer network with the strong local presence of BFC and BEC, we are making it easier for customers to send money internationally and connect with their families across the world through trusted, convenient, and reliable channels while supporting the region’s growing demand for cross-border payment services.”
The partnerships support Al Ansari Financial Services’ strategy of expanding its regional financial services platform while strengthening its omnichannel capabilities. The Group continues to enhance customer access to secure, seamless, and reliable international payment solutions across the GCC.
