BankIslami opens first all-women branch in Karachi

BankIslami Pakistan Limited has just launched its first fully women-managed branch in Karachi, taking a big step toward gender inclusivity in Pakistan’s financial sector. This branch, staffed entirely by women, is designed to create opportunities for female professionals while also making banking more accessible for women customers.

This move is part of BankIslami’s broader mission of “Saving Humanity from Riba,” reinforcing its focus on ethical and inclusive banking. Pakistan’s female workforce participation is just 21 percent, far below the global average. By opening this branch, BankIslami hopes to break down barriers and encourage more women to join the industry.

CEO and President Rizwan Ata stressed the importance of inclusivity, saying it is not just a choice but a necessity for progress. Backed by the Asian Development Bank’s Women’s Finance Exchange, the initiative also includes gender sensitivity training for staff.

Zulfiqar Lehri, Group Head of Retail Banking, pointed out that this effort isn’t just about employment; it’s about creating a more inclusive experience for customers too. With this step, BankIslami is leading the way in building a more equitable financial landscape in Pakistan.