The Central Bank of Kenya has cancelled the license granted to Bank Al-Habib Ltd (BAHL) following the bank’s decision to exit the Kenyan market as part of its international restructuring plan.

In a statement issued on June 30, CBK confirmed that the cancellation took effect on May 15, 2025, and followed BAHL’s formal closure of its Nairobi representative office.

"The Central Bank of Kenya announces the cancellation of the authority granted to Bank Al-Habib Ltd (BAHL) of Pakistan to operate its representative office in Kenya, pursuant to Section 43 of the Banking Act," the statement read.

BAHL had operated in Kenya since April 9, 2018, after receiving approval from CBK. Its Nairobi office served only as a liaison and marketing center for its parent company in Pakistan and global affiliates. It did not offer banking services such as deposit taking or issuing loans.

CBK emphasized that the withdrawal was a business decision and not related to any violation of regulations or compliance issues.

Headquartered in Karachi, Pakistan, Bank Al-Habib provides a wide range of services including corporate and retail banking, along with trade finance. The Nairobi office was its only footprint in East Africa.

CBK added that the bank’s exit was handled in line with all legal and regulatory requirements and assured that the move has no effect on the stability of Kenya’s financial sector.