Banking has traditionally been held back by legacy systems and a conservative mindset, limiting agility and innovation. But Mashreq is breaking that mold—forming ecosystem partnerships, co-creating with customers and FinTechs, and combining advanced technology with deep = operational expertise to shape the future of banking.

One of the most exciting aspects of Mashreq’s internal innovation is its use of Generative AI (Gen AI). By integrating Gen AI into Corporate onboarding, Mashreq is cutting down time and complexity in client interactions. When documents are uploaded, the AI engine extracts data and auto-fills fields—reducing manual input by up to 70%. We've also introduced electronic facial recognition (EFR) for secure digital consent, a first in the region for Large Corporates. This replaces physical signatures for UAE residents, making the process faster, safer, and convenient.

Another exciting development is our collaborative API solution for the Real Estate Industry. At Mashreq, we identified a major challenge in the Escrow space—manual, time-consuming processes that cause delays and reconciliation issues. To solve this, we partnered with developers and regulators to build an API that integrates directly with Real Estate Developers and the Land Department. It automates the escrow process, reduces manual work, provides real-time updates for regulators, and simplifies reporting. This has created a faster, more transparent, and efficient system for everyone involved.

For our internal teams, we launched PULSE—an AI-powered platform designed to digitize and streamline the daily work of Corporate RMs. Using AI and GenAI, PULSE handles tasks like scheduling, call reports, sales tracking, and compliance while offering a complete client view and real-time insights. PULSE has embedded Advanced Analytics features using Big Data, AI and ML models, to help RMs deepen client relationships and focus on driving revenues and improving customer experience.

One of Mashreq’s most recent innovations is NeoVentures, a dedicated corporate venture capital arm with a dual mandate. NeoVentures commercializes in-house built digital assets through venture building and innovates in the ecosystem through partnerships by investing in FinTechs.

In venture-building, with a “build-to-sell” mindset, the bank is reshaping how we deliver services. NeoVentures commercializes products either directly through ventures or via partnerships with FinTechs. We have partnered with multiple FinTechs to offer products like an AI-powered asset sell-down platform and a digital agency solution. We are also going to the market with ventures like PULSE.

In venture investments, we are continuously growing our FinTech investment portfolio through new and follow-on investments across retail and wholesale banking. These partnerships and investments reflect our deep commitment to fintech-led innovation and our role as a digital transformation leader.

Banks are often seen as slow to innovate—but they don’t have to be. Mashreq proves that with the right mindset, internal expertise, and strong ecosystem partnerships, a bank can lead the charge in innovation and stay ahead of evolving customer needs.

Amith Rajan, Head, Wholesale Digital Banking, Mashreq & CEO, NeoVentures

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