DUBAI, Sept 16 (Reuters) - First Gulf Bank (FGB),the United Arab Emirates' third largest bank, may look to buyBarclays Plc's retail banking operations in the UnitedArab Emirates, FGB's chief executive said on Monday.
The British lender has decided to sell the retail bankingbusiness following a strategic review of operations in the GulfArab state, it said earlier this month.
Local lenders in the UAE are expected to bid for thebusiness, which includes credit card, mortgage, personal lendingand deposit-taking operations.
"The bank is open for such opportunities. We may be doingdue diligence on Barclays (UAE business)," FGB Chief ExecutiveAndre Sayegh told reporters in Dubai.
"We're looking for synergies so if it makes sense, we'll gofor it," he said.