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First Abu Dhabi Bank confirmed plans to apply for a banking licence in South Africa, its biggest expansion move on the continent yetFAB won a trademark dispute against FirstRand’s FNB brand at South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal, clearing a key legal hurdleThe Gulf lender’s push into Southern Africa comes as HSBC, BNP Paribas and other European banks scale back their African operations
Legit.ng journalist Dave Ibemere has over a decade of business journalism experience with in-depth knowledge of the Nigerian economy, stocks, and general market trends.
First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the largest lender in the United Arab Emirates, has set its sights on South Africa as it intends to apply for a banking licence in Africa’s most developed financial market.
In February 2026, the bank opened a representative office in Nigeria.
First Abu Dhabi Bank plans South Africa expansion after Nigeria Photo: Jeff KingmaSource: Getty Images
FAB’s move to enter the South
