ABU DHABI, May 26, 2003 (WAM) -- Dubai Bank yesterday became the first bank in the Middle East region to launch a fully automated state-of-the-art safe deposit locker facility called Tijori, which can be accessed by customers 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Tijori, among other security features, uses the biometric system which requires customers to register their palm impression to validate their identity when using the service, according to reports in the UAE's dailies. For added security, the e-safe locker service allows the customer to watch real-time images of various strategic points outside the locker room, including images of the car park. Ahmed Bin Brek, chief executive officer of Dubai Bank, said: "Tijori ensures the highest levels of security, convenience and privacy. Its launch illustrates the bank's commitment to devising innovative products and services that continue to set new standards in a highly competitive banking industry. Technology is a key enabler and the new service illustrates our commitment to driving business and developing exceptional, new customer-centric products and services." Bin Brek also said that Dubai Bank is on track and would break-even by the time it completes 18 months since launch. He also added that the Jebel Ali branch of the bank should be up and running in the next four months. Dubai Bank's Tijori is located at Hall 1 of the Dubai World Trade Centre and the safe house facility comprises four frosted-glass cubicles that can be used by four customers simultaneously. There are 1,400 lockers at this point and the rents start from Dh1,000 a year per locker, which come in three sizes of small, medium and large. Latifa Fikree, vice-president of distribution at Dubai Bank, said: "As the level of security breaches and transaction fraud increases, the need to protect customers by way of highly secure identification and personal verification technologies is increasingly becoming relevant. Registration in Tijori takes just five minutes and the facility is open to all UAE residents." MORE WAM-VV