About this collection
HSBC Bank Middle East (BBME) began life as The Imperial Bank of Persia in Tehran in 1889. Half a century later the bank was looking to move into new markets and successfully negotiated an agreement with the ruler of Kuwait. The office opened in 1942 – the first bank to operate in the country. It enjoyed success in foreign exchange and import trade finance. The branch soon accounted for half of BBME’s profits and was considered a jewel in the company crown. Its achievements were reflected in the opening of an impressive new office on 18 March 1964. Take a look at a selection of photographs from the event.
