Emirates NBD just became FC Barcelona's newest sponsor

Emirates NBD Egypt has become a new regional sponsor of FC Barcelona

In a statement on its website, the Spanish club said the Egyptian branch of the Emirati bank will be a sponsor until 2020, with the possibility of a two-year extension after that. The deal will also seek to "create a prepaid card whereby the bank’s customers will be able to enjoy additional benefits such as match tickets and exclusive draws" for club themed material. 

“We are very pleased that such a prestigious bank in the region as Emirates NBD has thought of forming an association with FC Barcelona," FC Barcelona director Silvio Elías said. "This three-year partnership will reaffirm the club’s growth in emerging markets."

Fuad Mohamed, Chief Operating Officer of Emirates NBD Egypt also expressed the bank's pleasure at signing. 

"We are very pleased to have signed this sponsorship agreement with one of the world’s leading football teams. This deal forms part of our aim to promote financial inclusion in our country. It is a new opportunity to introduce innovative services for our customers from all parts of society," Mohamed said.

Qatar formerly became Barça's first-ever jersey sponsor in 2011.

The 5-year shirt sponsorship deal between Qatar and the Spanish football club stirred significant controversy among members and fans who accused Qatar of abusing human rights. Starting in 2011, the Qatar Foundation's logo appeared on the jerseys and in 2013, this was replaced by Qatar Airways under the deal. 

In May, the club's new uniforms were revealed, without 'Qatar' appearing on the Jersey. 

Emirates NBD is a leading bank in the Gulf Cooperation Council. The bank entered the Egyptian market in June 2013 through the acquisition of the subsidiary of BNP Paribas. 

Since then, the bank has expanded operations in Egypt, growing to more than 1,500 employees and more than 70 branches providing wide coverage throughout Egypt.