community development: focus areas

The social responsibility policy of alrajhi bank remains consistent with the governance principles adopted by Saudi Banks as per SAMA directives. alrajhi bank has a focus on developing and executing corporate sustainability and responsibility (CSR) strategies that encompass a broad approach to social responsibility and the delivery of best practices in all CSR Projects. The policy applies to the bank’s local business environment; including the bank’s departments and branches; its employees, customers, products, and the broader community.

According to the bank; Social Responsibility is defined as the commitment of the business leaders to support sustainable development through collaboration with the bank’s employees, families, local communities and the society in general. This commitment is to improve the quality of life while fostering business development and social advancement. Examples include initiatives in areas such as financial inclusion, environmental conservation, health, education, housing, entrepreneurship, charitable support and sustainable development.

The bank’s Community Service seeks to achieve the above framed social responsibility concept, and to implement its various practices through the following focus areas:

alrajhi bank is committed to fostering a healthy and safe environment for all employees; the bank maintains strict hygiene standards to promote good health and well-being for all employees, while providing an environment of cleanliness, orderliness, and safety. alrajhi bank has formulated a Health, Safety and Security Policy in line with SAMA guidelines and national Safety regulations. The Health, Safety and Security Department is responsible for ensuring the safety of all employees as well as communicating with, and training all employees to ensure compliance with safety standards. A comprehensive set of health-promotion activities that support healthy behaviour and improve health outcomes among employees is facilitated. These include health checks and screenings, vaccination drives, health insurance covers, on-site gym with membership discounts for employees, and leave, among other initiatives. Adequate ventilation and lighting is provided across all alrajhi working spaces. alrajhi bank also observes the safety and security of its employees and customers by meeting building safety standards. Additionally, the bank prioritises the development of social connections and relationships among its employees to create a supportive, engaging and cohesive workplace culture.

alrajhi bank is committed to supporting its employees’ well-being and stability by addressing their professional as well as social and personal needs. This greatly contributes to the holistic growth of its employees, and thus, the growth of the business. The bank also focuses on strengthening the level of employee loyalty, and in the responsible and fair recruitment of new talent through the Human Resources Group.

alrajhi bank ensures all its operations maintain transparency and adheres to disclosure policies as outlined by SAMA. The bank assures Shariah-compliance in all services and financial transactions, while leveraging advanced technology to enhance customer service. To save the customers’ time and effort, the bank uses modern branch designs, advanced ATMs, and comprehensive digital services with a focus on continuous improvement of these services.

The bank’s Social Responsibility Unit works with the Network Branch’s Department (Retail and Corporate) to provide excellent banking services. Thus, the bank aims to improve the quality services provided, create new products for customers, and meet the requirements of Islamic Shariah and SAMA.

The bank ensures that all its products are Shariah-compliant, adhering to resolutions that are monitored by the Shariah Authority and audited by the Shariah Audit Department. These practices are in accordance with the Shariah Group Policy in line with Resolution No. (317) and the Shariah Policy and Procedures Guide that includes sections on introduction, quality and the importance of audit.

In order to support environmental sustainability, the bank uses smart applications to regulate electricity and water consumption, limit paper usage, recycle used paper, and improve internal and external electronic communication with the cooperation of the Administration Department.

The bank is also committed towards providing youth with opportunities to build better futures, contributing towards youth employment, and preparing them for the job market through training programs such as summer training offered by the Training Department. Social Responsibility is carried out according to a strict procedure, which allows helping only official organisations and non-profit organisations with legal documents confirming their identity and financial report on their activities.

Funding is provided to programmes and projects that have clear objectives, defined timelines, implementation mechanisms, financial plans and follow-up procedures. Fundamental development projects, awareness programmes and creativity development programmes are favoured, especially those that will have sustainable impact in the long term. One such key project is the “Jood Eskan” national charitable housing project for families in need. Having participated in a Guinness World Record breaking campaign for the platform in 2023 where alrajhi raised SAR 100 Mn. together with its clients, the bank continued to make contributions to the platform during the year in review, with total donations to Jood Eskan to date surpassing SAR 250 Mn.

The bank emphasizes gender-inclusive programmes aligned with its principles and values, and aligned with geographical and societal requirements. All activities should be authorised by the CEO, endorsed by the Board of Directors, and approved by the General Assembly. Donation payments are documented through written agreements on operational expenses, and all programme documentation is kept for review and verification purposes.