BC-6.1 BC-6.1 Installation of an off-site ATM in Bahrain
BC-6.1.1
The purpose of the content of this section is to set out the criteria to be followed by banks for the installation and usage of
off-site ATMs in the Kingdom of Bahrain.BC-6.1.2
Applications for the installation of
off-site ATMs should be sent in writing, and in accordance with the requirements set out in paragraphs BC-6.1.3 to paragraphs BC-6.1.10, to the Executive Director of Banking Supervision at the Agency.General criteria
BC-6.1.3
Subject to the prior written approval of the Agency,
off-site ATMs may be owned individually or jointly by licensed FCBs which are members of the BENEFIT Switch. Each relevant owning FCB must already have linked its bank's ATM capability to the BENEFIT Switch prior to requesting the BMA's permission to install an off-site ATM and, furthermore, must conform to the general standards set by the Benefit company.BC-6.1.4
Subject to the prior written approval of the Agency,
off-site ATMs may, at each relevant owning FCB's discretion, be fully functioning or operate as cash dispensers only. In addition,off-site ATMs may, at each relevant owning FCB's discretion (and subject to the prior written approval of the Agency), be 'walk-up' or 'drive-in' machines.BC-6.1.5
Owning FCBs will bear full legal responsibility for their respective
off-site ATMs , as well as all costs associated with such ATMs (including, but not limited to, cash replenishment, installation, security etc.).BC-6.1.6
FCBs wishing to install an off-site ATM must submit an application (in writing) for the BMA's approval. This application must be accompanied by a copy of a feasibility study for that particular ATM, as well as such other information as the BMA may request. In particular, a copy of the written permission (for installation of that off-site ATM) of the legal owner of the proposed location must be provided to the Agency, as well as a copy of the written permission of any other relevant authorities in this context (e.g. the Traffic & Licensing and Civil Defence & Fire Service Directorates of the Ministry of Interior).
BC-6.1.7
Applications will generally be considered on a 'first come, first served' basis for a particular location. If more than one application is received to install an off-site ATM in the same location, the number of such applications which are approved will depend upon whether the location appears to the Agency to be capable of sustaining multiple
off-site ATMs (subject, in addition, to the exact details of each individual application regarding security etc. being acceptable to the Agency).BC-6.1.8
Each application will be assessed on its individual merits, and at the Agency's discretion, taking into account factors which the Agency considers relevant including, but not limited to:
(a) the suitability of the location in question,(b) the level of overall activities of the applicant in the market as well as the size and make-up of its customer base, and(c) the type and range of facilities which the applicant proposes offering through the off-site ATM at the location in question.BC-6.1.9
In addition to the information required by the Agency under paragraph BC-6.1.6, the Agency may require further information/clarification to be provided to it before it takes a decision regarding the application. The Agency's decision in this regard will be notified to each relevant applicant FCB in writing and will be final.
BC-6.1.10
The Agency may, at its discretion, require an off-site ATM to be closed at any time. In addition, an owning FCB may request the Agency in writing for permission to close any of its
off-site ATMs .
