Driving a Digital Ramadan Experience: Midland Bank PLC

Imtiaz U. Ahmed, 
Managing Director and CEO 
Midland Bank PLC

Midland Bank is preparing for this shift with upcoming multi-currency debit cards and Visa Signature credit cards, aiming to build a more inclusive digital banking ecosystem by the end of the decade.

As Ramadan and Eid increasingly reshape consumer spending patterns in Bangladesh, banks are accelerating digital innovation to support convenient financial transactions. Midland Bank PLC is introducing expanded card benefits, digital payment solutions and real-time banking services in this festive season. Imtiaz U. Ahmed, Managing Director and CEO of Midland Bank PLC, speaks with The Daily Star about evolving customer behaviour and the bank’s digital initiatives for 2026.

The Daily Star (TDS): How has consumer spending behaviour changed in recent years during Ramadan?

Imtiaz U. Ahmed (IUA): Rising inflation has shifted spending priorities towards essentials such as groceries, clothing and household essentials. At the same time, e-commerce adoption has accelerated as customers seek convenience and competitive pricing. We observed digital transactions grow strongly during Ramadan last year, reflecting increasing confidence in online and app-based banking services.

TDS: What trends are emerging in the transition from cash to digital payments?

IUA: Cashless spending is steadily expanding. Mobile financial services remain dominant, while card and app-based payments continue to grow rapidly during Ramadan Eid shopping. Transaction volumes on Midland cards typically double during this period, particularly for grocery and online marketplace purchases.

TDS: How do your card campaigns encourage smarter spending?

IUA: Our seasonal campaigns focus on value-driven spending. Credit and debit cardholders receive discounts at leading retail outlets, dining offers during Iftar and Sehri, cashback on online platforms, reward points on essential purchases and so on. Zero-interest EMI facilities and in-app spending analytics help customers manage budgets more effectively while maximising rewards.

TDS: How is Midland Bank ensuring seamless transactions during peak Eid travel and shopping?

IUA: Partnerships with major mobile financial service providers enable real-time transfers during peak periods. Features such as D-Toll payments within the Midland Online app allow customers to pay highway tolls instantly, reducing reliance on cash during Eid travel. Our infrastructure is designed to handle high transaction volumes without any service disruption.

TDS: How are digital solutions supporting merchants and remittance recipients?

IUA: Bangla QR payments allow small merchants to accept instant digital payments without POS hardware. Meanwhile, real-time remittance services ensure funds reach families nationwide quickly, supported by instant card and mobile wallet transfers. Digital nano loans also provide quick financial support during festive spending periods.

TDS: What safeguards are in place as transaction volumes rise?

IUA: We employ EMV security, multi-factor authentication, biometric logins and AI-driven fraud monitoring supported by 24/7 security operations. Customer awareness initiatives further help prevent phishing and fraud risks during peak seasons.

TDS: How do you see festive spending evolving in the future?

IUA: Festive spending will become increasingly cashless and personalised, driven by QR interoperability, AI-powered financial insights, and embedded digital finance.