Alinma Bank has partnered with IBM to upgrade its IT infrastructure and launch a new digital platform that improves services for fintech and SME clients.
Saudi Arabia-based Alinma Bank, founded in 2006, has adopted IBM’s hybrid cloud and AI integration technologies in order to introduce an application programming interface (API) platform.
Alinma Bank’s centralised API repository currently serves as a mission-critical component within the Bank’s IT architecture, supporting nearly all banking channels, from retail to B2B.
The IBM collaboration
Alinma Bank has implemented IBM’s technologies, including Cloud Pak for Integration and Red Hat OpenShift on IBM Cloud, to enhance its API platform, providing a secure and scalable infrastructure for fintechs and SMEs.
This centralised API marketplace simplifies data access, supporting Alinma’s role in Saudi Arabia’s digital economy and aligning with its 2025 Transformation Strategy to create new revenue streams and offer advanced digital solutions.
The platform also integrates IBM’s API Connect for efficient management of onboarding, pricing, and payment processes, ensuring compliance and consistency across all data access points. This collaboration boosts Alinma Bank’s capability to meet regulatory standards while adapting to the changing demands of the fintech sector with customer-centric services.
Supporting growth and resilience
“IBM is a valuable, trusted partner in our journey to becoming one of the kingdom’s most agile and responsive financial institutions,” said Yasser AlOufi, chief information officer at Alinma Bank. “As an innovation-driven bank, we are dedicated to delivering world-class offerings that empower our clients and partners to succeed.
“Our new API platform exemplifies this focus, providing corporate customers and fintech partners with competitive, secure, and accessible digital services that support their growth and resilience.”
Fahad Alanazi, general manager, IBM Saudi Arabia, also commented: “We are honored to be a technology partner in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, committed to providing solutions that meet our clients’ needs and contribute to the nation’s success.
“For years, we have worked to do exactly that, and today, as we advance into an increasingly digital era, we are even more committed to ensuring that leading entities such as Alinma Bank are best placed to accomplish their future goals. Our collaboration on the API Monetisation platform unlocks greater potential for Saudi fintechs and SMEs. We look forward to our continued partnership as Alinma paves the way for innovation in the Kingdom’s financial services sector.”
