top of page
ADCB

ADCB

Elevating a financial institution to represent more than just money

Branding, Storytelling, User Experience

The Brief

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), once a leading financial institution renowned for its deep understanding of its customers and reflection of the UAE's diverse demographic, had fallen to third place in the UAE banking sector. In a vast market, such a shift might not raise significant concerns. However, in the tightly competitive UAE landscape with only five major local banks, this decline signified a substantial loss in market share for ADCB.

The bank, once celebrated for its customer-centric approach, was at risk of fading into the background, becoming just another player in the financial arena. This case study delves into the factors contributing to ADCB's market share decline and the strategies employed to regain its competitive edge.

Our Solution

In collaboration with Solve Ideas, we identified a unique opportunity to differentiate ADCB's brand messaging from the conventional, transactional approach of its competitors. We aimed to shift the focus from mundane financial promotions to a deeper connection with customers' aspirations.

Recognizing the power of visualization in achieving goals, we launched the "Ambition Visualized" campaign, inviting individuals across the UAE to envision their most ambitious dreams coming true. Our premise was simple yet powerful: the clearer one's vision of their desired future, the more effectively ADCB could position itself as the financial partner to help them realize it.

This campaign marked a significant departure from traditional banking communication. By tapping into the emotional core of customers' aspirations, we not only revitalized ADCB's brand but also elevated its role beyond a mere financial institution to a true partner in achieving life goals. The campaign resonated deeply with audiences, generating widespread engagement and fostering a stronger emotional bond with ADCB.

The Results

The "Ambition Visualized" campaign struck a powerful emotional chord with both ADCB's customers and its management. It not only realigned the bank's internal purposes and aspirations but also drove tangible business results: 

  • Increased Trust & Customer Acquisition: The campaign fostered a 29% increase in new-to-bank customer relationships, underscoring the strengthened trust and brand loyalty it generated. 

  • Enhanced Product Uptake: By forging a deeper connection with customers' financial goals, the campaign spurred a 23% rise in product acquisition, indicating increased customer engagement and satisfaction. 

  • Elevated Brand Perception: ADCB experienced substantial growth in key brand attributes, with a 22% increase in "brand understands my needs" and a 21% increase in "committed to my life stage needs." 

These figures demonstrate a tangible shift in how customers perceived and valued the brand. This remarkable success was the result of a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, including Solve Ideas, Saatchi & Saatchi Dubai, Start JG, Omnicom, and Persuade Productions. 


The collective expertise and dedication of these agencies propelled the campaign to new heights, culminating in recognition as a finalist in the prestigious MENA Effie Awards.

bottom of page