List of Commercial Banks in Pakistan

Pakistan is home to a diverse banking sector, with several major commercial banks serving the needs of individuals, corporations, and the government. Among these, the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Allied Bank of Pakistan, and First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) stand out due to their size, influence, and the important services they provide.

National Bank of Pakistan (NBP)

The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) is the largest commercial bank in the country, with a balance sheet size that surpasses any other bank operating in Pakistan. Established in 1949, NBP has grown to become a major player in Pakistan's banking sector, providing a wide range of services to individual customers, corporate entities, and the government. Its services include traditional banking products such as savings and current accounts, loans, and investment services, as well as specialized credit schemes tailored to the needs of various sectors of the economy.

One of NBP’s standout initiatives is its focus on small finance. The bank has implemented several credit schemes aimed at supporting sectors such as agriculture, business, and industry. These credit schemes have helped small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and farmers access affordable financing, enabling them to grow and contribute to Pakistan’s economic development. Additionally, NBP has been involved in providing financial support for the public transport sector, which has helped improve infrastructure and mobility within urban areas.

The bank's extensive network of branches, including its branches in remote areas, has made it accessible to a large segment of the population, further solidifying its role as the backbone of Pakistan’s banking sector. NBP continues to play a key role in financial inclusion and economic development in Pakistan.

Habib Bank Limited (HBL)

Habib Bank Limited (HBL) holds the distinction of being the first commercial bank established in Pakistan, founded in 1947. HBL has built a reputation as one of the most prestigious and successful banks in Pakistan. Over the years, the bank has expanded its reach and now has the largest Corporate Banking portfolio in the country. This strong corporate presence is supported by a robust Investment Banking arm, which provides a wide range of financial products and services, including investment management, advisory services, and capital market solutions.

HBL has also been a pioneer in raising Tier II Capital from external sources, which helped strengthen the bank's financial position and enhance its capacity to provide additional services. In recognition of its excellence, Global Finance magazine awarded HBL the Best Emerging Market Banks award for Pakistan in 2010, showcasing the bank’s leading position in the industry.

In addition to its corporate banking services, HBL also offers comprehensive retail banking services and has a strong presence in the international banking market. With a legacy of trust and innovation, HBL continues to be a key financial institution in Pakistan’s banking sector.

Allied Bank of Pakistan

Allied Bank of Pakistan is another major player in Pakistan’s banking sector, known for its diverse range of banking services. It provides universal banking services, meaning it offers both retail and corporate banking solutions to individuals, businesses, and government clients. While the bank serves all segments of the economy, it places a major emphasis on retail banking, offering services such as personal loans, savings accounts, and credit cards.

One of Allied Bank's key strengths is its large network of online branches, making it one of the leading banks in Pakistan in terms of digital banking services. The bank has embraced technology to provide its customers with convenient and innovative services. This includes online banking, mobile banking, and other technology-based products that allow customers to access and manage their finances with ease.

Allied Bank has been a strong advocate for the growth of the retail banking sector in Pakistan and continues to evolve with the changing financial needs of the population. With a focus on customer service and technological advancement, Allied Bank remains one of Pakistan’s most trusted and reliable commercial banks.

First Women Bank Limited (FWBL)

First Women Bank Limited (FWBL) is a unique institution in Pakistan’s banking landscape, established in 1989 by Benazir Bhutto, the first woman Prime Minister of Pakistan. FWBL was created with a specific mission in mind: to meet the special needs of women entrepreneurs and provide financial services that would help empower women in Pakistan. The bank’s focus on women’s financial inclusion has made it an important institution in the country’s banking sector.

FWBL has made significant strides in promoting microfinance in Pakistan. It was the first commercial bank in the country to launch a Micro Credit program, aimed at providing small loans to low-income women, enabling them to start or expand small businesses. The bank's efforts in microfinance were recognized globally, and in 2001, Women’s World Banking featured FWBL in its Global Directory, highlighting the bank for its banking innovation in the microfinance sector. Additionally, the Asian Banking Award in 2005 awarded FWBL’s microfinance program as a Runner-Up in its Micro-Finance Program category.

FWBL continues to support women entrepreneurs and low-income individuals through its innovative financial products, helping them overcome economic challenges and build better lives for themselves and their families.

List of Commercial Banks operating in Pakistan:
- Allied Bank Limited
- Askari Bank
- Bank Alfalah
- Bank AL Habib
- Barclays Bank Pakistan
- Citibank Pakistan
- Faysal Bank
- First Women Bank
- Habib Bank Limited
- Habib Metropolitan Bank
- Habib Bank AG Zurich
- HSBC Pakistan
- JS Bank
- KASB Bank Ltd
- MCB Bank Limited
- MyBank
- National bank of Pakistan
- NIB Bank Pakistan
- Royal Bank of Scotland Pakistan
- Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan
- Silkbank Limited
- Soneri Bank
- Summit Bank
- United Bank Limited