Bahrain-based Islamic insurance company, Takaful International, is looking to expand its operations into Qatar.

The firm yesterday announced that it was hoping to open a branch in Qatar as soon as it received a licence from the regulatory authorities, at a Press conference where it launched its new e-takaful website.

The company will be the first insurance operation in Bahrain to offer individual and corporate clients the ability to check rates and buy insurance over the Internet.

'We have noticed the markets' need for technologically advanced services that provide an effective, safe and easy insurance service process,' said general manager Essam Al Ansari.

'The company continues to innovate and improve all its insurance products and services to ease all procedures for customers and keep pace with the current era,' he said.

'Customers can now obtain quotations for services such as car, travel, home, domestic and marine insurance and other insurance services on the website,' said deputy general manager Abdul Aziz Al Othman.

'It is also possible to obtain documents electronically for renewal of all policies, with the possibility of reporting of claims. Customer suggestions are welcome. Further features allow review of policies and claims and for updating personal data.

'In addition, customers can retrieve policy quotes in a few minutes, by filling the form of the insurance service, and paying the premium through a protected webpage.

'After completing the form all data will be sent and the policy will be delivered to the insured in no time by express mail service within Bahrain.

'Bahrain is one of the most advanced countries in using the Internet in the Middle East, as the last study indicates that Internet users have exceeded 32 per cent which is around 435,000. We strive to continue to provide the best services to our customers, as this website is developed to serve them promptly and effectively, in addition to saving time and effort,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service