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Bahrain National Insurance (BNI) has announced the launch of its new _- and first in the local and regional insurance industry - virtual insurance branch in Bahrain - bnidirect. The launch also coincides with the revealing of BNI's revamped website.
Mahmood Al Soufi, chief executive officer of Bahrain National Holding (BNH), said bnidirect is the result of 18 months' development.
He explained: "We saw the need in the local market for a technologically-driven service; a virtual insurance service that not only is a new idea but is also reliable, convenient and secure."
Now a customer could even issue a travel policy en route to the airport by logging on to www.bnidirect.com and concluding the transaction in minutes - wherever they are. All the client would need is internet access, a credit card, e-mail address, CPR number and a mobile phone.
Jonathan Abela, assistant general manager - motor & personal lines insurance, has been in charge of the project since inception.
He said: "With bnidirect it's possible to get and view quotes for motor, travel, home and domestic servant insurance, issue an online policy, renew a policy and place a claim; leave us feedback, view policies and claims as well as view and change personal details and passwords."
The revamped website will allow customers to enjoy the flexibility of a wide range of insurance plans and options. The company hopes to take the misery out of buying insurance and cast away thoughts of long queues and waiting for hours.
Apart from the added convenience of virtual transactions, customers can also take advantage of a special discount of up to 10 per cent on premiums being offered on transactions conducted online.
Mr Abela added: "It has been created to provide the residents of Bahrain with a product that is fast, secure, safe and convenient; one that avoids traffic jams and queues and brings the future of motor and personal lines insurance in Bahrain - today.
"Not just your basic website with a premium generator, with bnidirect you can do so much more. It allows you to get a quote, alter it, issue a policy online, renew it, have your policy documents e-mailed to you, lodge a claim, leave feedback, view your quotations, policies and claims as well as view and change your personal details and password.
"Completely technology driven, all you need to do is register online and a password will be sent to your inbox instantaneously; you can then transact online, receive your documents by e-mail and be contacted via SMS or e-mail.
"There is also a helpdesk facility if you require any assistance, and for added customer security and confidence the company has employed the latest payment gateway technology from Benefit, verified by Visa.
"So from now on, relax and whenever you think of insurance, think bnidirect and rest assured that your next insurance transaction is just a click away."
For information call 17 587-300.
