How could SAMBA change its image as the bank of the rich and the foreign contractors? SAMBA is an aggressive and progressive bank. It is a pioneer in introducing technological banking innovations such as electronic and voice banking and linking all its branches in Saudi Arabia through a centralized computer network.

SAMBA is a joint stock company 60 % owned by the Saudi public and 40% owned by Citibank. Citibank is managing SAMBA in a Western professional impersonal management style.

Since its inception in 1980, SAMBA has targeted corporate banking as the thrust of its business. This strategy has translated into a limited number of 30 branches all over Saudi Arabia.

As of late, corporate business and investment opportunities in the Saudi market have declined and SAMBA reported a net profit decline of 53.8 %

in 1986.