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Banks, institutions suspend operations in Kuwait after Iranian attacks
Authorities said that the measures were precautionary steps aimed at protecting staff and customers while maintaining essential services through digital channels
- PUBLISHED: Sun 8 Mar 2026, 9:03 AM UPDATED: Sun 8 Mar 2026, 10:14 AM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
Several banks and public institutions in Kuwait temporarily closed their main offices on Sunday because of ongoing attacks from Iran in response to US-Israel strikes on Tehran.
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In a statement, Kuwait's Public Institution for Social Security said its main headquarters was targeted, resulting in significant damage to the building and a fire on the facade. Emergency teams were deployed to the site to control the blaze. The institution apologised to visitors for suspending in-person services at the main building on Sunday and said customers could visit other branches, with transactions continuing through electronic services.
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Several major banks also announced precautionary closures of their headquarters due to the security situation. Kuwait Finance House said it would suspend work on Sunday at Main Building 1, Main Building 2, related departments, and Baitak Tower to keep employees and customers safe. The bank encouraged customers to use its KFHOnline app for services like activating or suspending bank cards.
Boubyan Bank similarly announced the temporary suspension of operations at its main headquarters and affiliated branches, citing ongoing developments and the need to prioritise safety. The bank advised customers to follow its official channels for updates on service availability.
Meanwhile, National Bank of Kuwait said its headquarters would remain closed from Sunday until further notice. The bank reassured its customers that retail and corporate banking services continue to operate normally despite precautionary measures taken at its headquarters. It remains fully prepared to ensure the continuity, efficiency, and security of its operations for customers both in Kuwait and internationally.
NBK confirmed that local branches across Kuwait are operating during official hours, providing all banking services and transactions, while international operations and subsidiaries remain unaffected. The bank’s critical technical and operational departments are functioning from pre-designated alternative locations to support corporate and trade finance clients.
In addition, NBK’s digital channels, including mobile banking, online banking, and ATMs, remain fully operational 24/7. Customers can also access services through the NBK call center, WhatsApp at 1801801, and official social media channels. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining operational readiness and resilience, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of reliable banking services.
Authorities and institutions emphasised that the measures were precautionary steps aimed at protecting staff and customers while maintaining essential services through digital channels and other branches.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
