Islamic banking has steadily grown in Kenya over the past decade, offering financial services aligned with Sharia-compliant principles. While only a few fully-fledged Islamic banks operate in the country, several conventional banks also provide Islamic windows—dedicated offerings designed to meet the needs of customers seeking ethical, interest-free financial products.
Below is a comprehensive list of the fully operational Islamic banks in Kenya, along with an overview of their services, branch networks, and contact details.
1. Gulf African Bank
Gulf African Bank is recognized as Kenya’s first Islamic bank, offering inclusive financial services to individuals, businesses, and institutions regardless of their faith. Founded in 2006 and operational since 2008, the bank specializes in ethical banking and provides financing, advisory services, and deposit products.
- Branch Network: Nairobi, Nakuru, Eldoret, Garissa, Malindi, Mombasa, and Lamu
- Head Office: Geminia Insurance Plaza, Upperhill, Nairobi
- Contact: 0711 075 000 / 0729 111 537
- Email: customercare@gab.co.ke
2. DIB Bank Kenya Limited
DIB Bank Kenya, a subsidiary of Dubai Islamic Bank, was launched to extend the legacy of Dubai’s pioneering Islamic financial model to Kenya. DIB offers a wide range of Sharia-compliant banking products focusing on both retail and corporate banking services. With a commitment to innovation, the bank merges traditional values with modern technologies to meet the needs of customers.
- Branch Network: Primarily in Nairobi and other key towns
- Contact: +254 20 709 913111
3. Premier Bank
Premier Bank became a fully-fledged Islamic bank in 2023 after acquiring First Community Bank. The bank provides Sharia-compliant financial products and services, with branches spread across major cities and towns, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. Premier Bank aims to offer competitive services through innovative banking solutions while staying aligned with Islamic principles.
- Head Office: Mihrab Building, Ring Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
- Contact: 020 2843000 / 0725 843000
- Email: info@premierbank.ke
Islamic Banking Options in Conventional Banks
In addition to these fully Islamic banks, some conventional banks in Kenya have introduced Islamic banking windows to cater to customers who seek ethical financial services:
- KCB Sahal – An Islamic banking arm of Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB)
- NBK Amana – The Islamic product portfolio of National Bank of Kenya (NBK)
These windows provide savings accounts, current accounts, and financing products that comply with Sharia principles, offering interest-free services to clients.
The Growth of Islamic Banking in Kenya
Islamic banking in Kenya is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). With increasing interest in ethical finance, the sector has grown to include Islamic insurance (Takaful) and Sharia-compliant investment funds. These offerings align with customer demand for banking services that avoid riba (interest) and promote fairness in financial transactions.
Islamic banks in Kenya not only cater to the Muslim population but also attract non-Muslim clients looking for transparent and ethical financial solutions. As digital banking expands, these banks are also adopting fintech innovations to stay competitive and enhance service delivery.
