Understanding IBAN and SWIFT codes for international transfers

Making international transfers simple and secure

Whether you’re sending money to family abroad, paying for overseas education, or transferring funds for business purposes, knowing how IBAN and SWIFT codes work is essential. These two codes ensure that your money reaches the correct destination safely and without delay.

At Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB), we want to make every transfer simple, transparent, and secure, empowering you to send and receive money with full confidence.

What is an IBAN?

IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is a globally recognized format used to identify individual bank accounts across borders. It includes your country code, bank code, and account number, ensuring that funds are routed correctly to the intended account.

Example of a Qatar IBAN format: QA01 QISB 0000 1234 1234 1234 12341

Qatar IBAN contains 29 digits.

When sending or receiving international transfers, please ensure that:

• You enter the correct IBAN of the recipient
• Your own IBAN is shared accurately with the sender to receive funds without delay

You can easily find IBAN through the QIB Mobile App, the official QIB website, or on your account statement.

What is a SWIFT Code?

SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) is a network used by banks worldwide to send and receive financial transaction messages securely. Each bank has a unique SWIFT code — also known as a BIC (Bank Identifier Code) — that identifies it globally.

• QIB’s SWIFT Code: QISBQAQA
• This code ensures that international payments are directed to Qatar Islamic Bank

Why IBAN Codes and SWIFT codes matter?

Both codes are essential for international transfers because they:

• Prevent errors by ensuring funds reach the right bank and account
• Reduce delays in international payments
• Enhance security, as only trusted institutions use SWIFT’s encrypted network
• Comply with global banking standards for cross-border transactions

How to make a safe international transfer

Before making any transfer abroad, always:

1. Verify the recipient’s details. Ensure the IBAN and SWIFT codes belong to the correct person or institution
2. Use only trusted channels, such as the QIB Mobile App or QIB branches to send money securely
3. Avoid sharing account details with unknown individuals or over unofficial platforms
4. Double-check spelling and digits. Even a small typo can cause delays or returned transfers

Sending money abroad with QIB

With QIB, you can send money securely with just a few taps on the QIB Mobile App or through our website:

• Log in and select “Transfers”
• Choose “International Transfer”
• Enter the beneficiary details, including the IBAN and SWIFT code for selected countries, and validate the codes
• Review and confirm the transaction

Your transfer will be processed through trusted global banking networks, ensuring speed and safety.

Stay secure. Send confidently.

Understanding IBAN and SWIFT codes is the first step towards safe and seamless international banking. With QIB, you can rely on security and transparency. However, remember that IBAN validation is an important part of the beneficiary creation journey and, it should be completed with utmost care.