First of its kind augmented reality banking app announced by Noor Islamic Bank

The Noor App, which will be available for download in November, will enable customers to access Noor's full range of products and services, from opening an account to executing banking transactions, such as money transfers and utility bill payments. Noor is also seeking approval from the UAE Central Bank to enable customers to securely deposit cheques via the app, by scanning the cheque with their smartphone or tablet.

Hussain AlQemzi, GCEO of Noor Investment Group and CEO of Noor Islamic Bank said: "Next generation Noor customers will not want to visit a bank branch for their day-to-day banking needs. They will want access to banking services and products on their smartphones and tablets. The Noor App is a key part of our commitment to providing our customers with convenience banking, wherever and whenever they want it."

"Noor is known as a progressive, forward looking bank. Harnessing the latest technology for the benefit of our customers is part of our DNA. The Noor App is the latest in a long line of innovations we have introduced. And it won't be the last. Noor is determined to be the leader in digital banking," Hussain AlQemzi added.

Noor's 'Bank of the Future' initiative is aimed at creating new, innovative, ways of banking and enhancing the banking experience.

Alongside the GITEX announcement of the Noor App, Noor is demonstrating its own futuristic vision of a 'Bank of The Future'. The high-tech, interactive, concept bank provides a unique, immersive, 3D experience of how the future of banking could develop. It includes technology which is available today, but has yet to make inroads into banking. It also presents a future in which, for example, banks not only provide car loans, but make it possible for customers to select the make, model, colour and options of their car of choice, without visiting a car showroom.

To support the Bank of the Future initiative, Noor has also launched an online competition, 'Shape Your Bank', to crowd source ideas on the future of banks.

"This is the latest step in a journey that began even before we launched, when we held our first 'Shape Your Bank' campaign," Al Qemzi explained. "We listened then and we are still listening. The ideas we receive, through the latest 'Shape Your Bank' campaign, will guide the way we conduct our business in the future."

Since its launch in 2008 Noor has established itself as a market leader in innovative banking services and products. Noor was the first UAE bank to open a 24/7 bank branch and earlier this year it was the first Islamic bank to provide an internet bank account opening service. In addition Noor's website provides a suite of cutting edge online banking services. And, its insurance arm, Noor Takaful, was the first Takaful operator to offer online insurance services and products.