Dubai-based Noor Islamic Bank has announced the launch of its new augmented reality ‘Bank In Your Hand’ smartphone and tablet app, the first of its kind in the Middle East.

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, a statement from the bank said.

Hussain AlQemzi, GCEO of Noor Investment Group and chief executive 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 Appis 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.”

Its ‘Bank of the Future’ initiative is aimed at creating new, innovative, ways of banking and enhancing the banking experience.

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, the statement said. A prize of $20,000 will be awarded for the best idea on how the banking experience can be improved.

The closing date for entries is October 31.

“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 said. “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.” – TradeArabia News Service