Emirates NBD Secures Final Approvals for Landmark RBL Bank Acquisition
Emirates NBD has announced that it has received all required regulatory and governmental approvals, including final approval from the Government of India, for its landmark acquisition of a majority controlling stake in RBL Bank Limited.
The development clears the way for the completion of one of the largest cross-border investments in India’s financial services sector.
The transaction, first announced on 18 October 2025, involves an investment of approximately USD 3 billion (around INR 268.5 billion) by Emirates NBD into RBL Bank. The deal represents the largest equity fundraise in the Indian banking sector and marks a significant milestone as a majority acquisition of a profitable Indian bank by a foreign banking institution.
Emirates NBD said the approvals reflect the strong bilateral relationship between the UAE and India, as well as growing economic and financial cooperation between the two countries.
The bank noted that the approvals from authorities in both nations demonstrate support for long-term foreign investment and confidence in Emirates NBD’s international expansion strategy.
India has been identified as a strategic market for Emirates NBD as part of its broader growth strategy across the Middle East, North Africa, Türkiye, and South Asia (MENATSA) region.
The acquisition of RBL Bank is expected to strengthen Emirates NBD’s ability to support customers involved in trade, investment, and financial activities between India and the Gulf region.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates NBD, said the acquisition reflects the bank’s commitment to expanding in high-potential regional markets such as India.
He also praised the leadership of both the UAE and India for supporting the completion of the milestone transaction, adding that the acquisition would help deepen Emirates NBD’s presence in the Indian market while supporting long-term growth opportunities.
Hesham Abdulla Al Qassim, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates NBD, described the approval as a major milestone for the bank and highlighted the institution’s commitment to supporting India’s economic growth through capital investment, banking expertise, and enhanced connectivity.
Shayne Nelson, Group CEO of Emirates NBD, said the approval strengthens the bank’s position within a major trade, wealth, and investment corridor while enhancing its ability to serve customers across two of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
The acquisition is expected to further strengthen financial ties between the UAE and India while supporting Emirates NBD’s international expansion ambitions.
