United Commercial Bank (UCB) has introduced a suite of loans under its women-centric banking service, “Ayma”, aimed at empowering female customers across Bangladesh. Through this initiative, women can access financing for vehicle purchases, home construction, business expansion, personal expenses, and other legitimate purposes, with a maximum loan limit of BDT 50 million.
Vehicle Loans
Under the Ayma programme, female customers can borrow up to BDT 4 million or 50% of the vehicle’s purchase price, whichever is lower. The repayment period can extend up to five years, and eligibility requires registration under the Ayma service.
Income Eligibility for Vehicle Loans
| Customer Type | Minimum Monthly Income (BDT) |
|---|---|
| Salaried Officer | 50,000 |
| Medical Professional | 60,000 |
| Self-Employed Professional | 60,000 |
| Businesswoman | 75,000 |
Business Expansion & Entrepreneur Loans
Women entrepreneurs can access Ayma Dipti loans for business development. Loans can reach up to BDT 50 million on an instalment basis. Unsecured loans without collateral are available up to BDT 5 million. Applicants must have at least one year of business experience. Loan funds may be used for capital investment, agricultural production and marketing, or other approved business purposes.
Business Loan Terms
| Loan Type | Maximum Loan (BDT) | Collateral Required | Tenure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instalment Principal Loan | 50,000,000 | Yes | 1–5 years |
| Unsecured Loan | 5,000,000 | No | 5 years |
Home and Personal Loans
Through Ayma, women can secure home loans up to BDT 20 million for constructing, purchasing, or renovating houses or flats, with a repayment period of up to 25 years. Personal loans are available up to BDT 2 million and are fully unsecured.
Income Eligibility for Home and Personal Loans
| Loan Type | Salaried Income (BDT) | Self-Employed Income (BDT) | Business Income (BDT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Loan | 40,000 | 60,000 | 60,000 |
| Personal Loan | 25,000 | 40,000 | 45,000 |
Debit and Credit Card Facilities
Ayma customers can obtain Mastercard Classic, Visa Classic, and Visa Signature cards. Benefits include shopping and travel rewards, instalment facilities, dining discounts, and reward points accumulation.
Additional Banking Services
For female entrepreneurs and small business owners, UCB offers specialized accounts such as Swonirbhar Current Account, Swabalambi Easy Account, and the Ayma Protyay monthly savings programme. These schemes allow women to open accounts with minimal deposits and accumulate funds systematically through monthly instalments.
Conclusion
UCB Bank’s Ayma service plays a pivotal role in enhancing women’s financial independence. From vehicle and home loans to business expansion financing, the programme provides a comprehensive platform for women to achieve self-reliance and strengthen their economic participation.