Doha, September 02 (QNA) - The Qatar Financial Centre (QFC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AlRayan Bank to facilitate access for QFC firms to banking services and strengthen cooperation in Islamic finance and capital markets in Qatar.

Under the MoU, QFC will promote AlRayan Bank as a strategic banking partner for firms licensed on its platform, as well as new companies seeking to open bank accounts. In return, AlRayan Bank will develop a suite of tailored banking solutions and services for QFC firms and their employees, including immediate banking services for employees newly arriving in Qatar.

The two parties will also explore the potential integration of their digital platforms to streamline and accelerate the process of opening bank accounts for companies registered with QFC.

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation between the two parties in combating and mitigating financial crime risks, including money laundering, terrorist financing and fraud, through information sharing, the application of best practices, and enhanced alignment with relevant international regulatory standards.

The MoU also provides for enhanced cooperation to ensure the smooth flow of data, standardize procedures and improve operational efficiency between the two parties, particularly with regard to the onboarding of QFC clients.

Through this cooperation, the parties will work to enhance access to the banking and investment solutions offered by AlRayan Bank and AlRayan Investment, while providing tailored banking offers and exclusive benefits to QFC-licensed firms and their employees.

Commenting on the MoU, Chief Executive Officer of QFC Mansoor Rashid Al Khater said: "This partnership reflects our commitment to enhancing the business environment for the QFC firms by expanding access to banking solutions and financial services, while fostering innovation across Islamic finance and capital markets. By working closely with AlRayan Bank, we are enhancing the value we provide to businesses and supporting the continued development of Qatar’s financial ecosystem".

For his part, Group Chief Executive Officer of AlRayan Bank Fahad bin Abdullah Al Khalifa stressed: "Our collaboration with Qatar Financial Centre reinforces AlRayan Bank’s commitment to delivering seamless, digitally enabled banking for businesses in Qatar. By exploring the integration of our digital platforms, we aim to simplify account opening for QFC- registered entities, improve efficiency, and provide faster access to our banking services, subject to applicable regulatory requirements and approvals. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to supporting Qatar’s business ecosystem through innovation, collaboration, and customer-centric solutions."

The partnership reflects the complementary roles of QFC and AlRayan Bank in supporting business growth and developing Qatar's financial sector by facilitating access to financial services, strengthening cooperation in Islamic finance and capital markets, and launching joint initiatives that contribute to knowledge-sharing and capacity-building. (QNA)