**Alawwal Bank**
**Definition**
Alawwal Bank was a Saudi Arabian financial institution known as the first bank established in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
**Article**
### History
Founded in 1926 as the Saudi Hollandi Bank, Alawwal Bank holds the distinction of being the oldest bank in Saudi Arabia. It was initially established as a branch of the Netherlands Trading Society. In 2016, the bank rebranded to Alawwal Bank, which means „The First” in Arabic, reflecting its pioneering status in the Saudi banking sector.
### Operations
Alawwal Bank provided a wide range of banking services including retail, corporate, and investment banking. It played a significant role in supporting the economic development of Saudi Arabia through its extensive network of branches and digital banking platforms.
### Merger
In 2019, Alawwal Bank merged with Saudi British Bank (SABB), creating one of the largest banking groups in the Kingdom. This merger aimed to enhance financial services and expand market reach within Saudi Arabia.
**Meta Description**
Alawwal Bank was the first bank established in Saudi Arabia, offering comprehensive banking services before merging with Saudi British Bank in 2019.