Doha, Qatar 27 April 2016

Fitch Ratings has affirmed International Bank of Qatar's (ibq) Long-term issuer default ratings at 'A+' with a stable outlook. The agency also upgraded ibq's Viability Rating (VR) to 'bbb-' from 'bb+', driven by ibq's sound growth strategy and solid capitalisation. The rating also reflects the bank's sound asset quality and liquidity, which compares well with that of many of its peers, notably during the period of tighter sector liquidity in 2015.

Fitch Ratings is an internationally recognised ratings agency, providing independent research on global financial institutions.

"This rating is an affirmation of the strength and stability of Qatar's banking sector, which continues to record growth despite the slowing of the global economy," said ibq Managing Director Omar Bouhadiba. "As we move forward, we will continue to deliver to our customers the best products and services and this revised rating by Fitch confirms that the bank's strategy is sound, its capital strong and should enable ibq to drive business forward for the benefit of all our clients."

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For further information, please contact:
Zeinab Hammoud
Senior Accourt Executive- Memac Ogilvy Public Relations
Email: zeinab.hammoud@ogilvy.com
Mobile: +974 - 6679 4292

Myriam Abou Haidar
Marketing and Corporate Communications Department
International Bank of Qatar (ibq)
Direct:   +974 - 4447 3939
Mobile: +974 - 6690 4808

About International Bank of Qatar (ibq):
The International Bank of Qatar (ibq) is a well-established and rapidly growing commercial institution, offering a full range of retail, private, and corporate banking solutions. ibq has a strong commitment to build long-lasting relationships with its customers and provide them with excellent customer service with a focus on making banking simple, convenient and tailored to their needs.

ibq is one of the oldest existing banks in Qatar and will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2016. The Bank has a growing network of branches, service centres and ATMs strategically located throughout Qatar.

ibq has received various international and prestigious accolades which are testaments to its position as one of Qatar's leading banks. The bank has received various awards for its Private Banking and Retail Banking services from Euromoney, Arabian Business, International Banker, International Finance Magazine, Global Banking and Finance Review, The Banker and Banker Middle East.

© Press Release 2016