
Oman Arab Bank Leads the Economic Empowerment Landscape in the Sultanate of Oman and is Crowned with the 'Outstanding Commitment to SME Growth and Empowerment' Award
In a remarkable achievement that set the standard for banking expertise in the Sultanate of Oman, Oman Arab Bank's added to its growing record of success, proudly announcing it being the receipt of the 'Outstanding Commitment to SME Growth and Empowerment' award — a well-deserved recognition of a deeply rooted strategic vision and clear affirmation of the bank's pivotal role in leading the economic empowerment of entrepreneurs across the Sultanate.
This award is not merely a celebratory milestone, but the natural result of an integrated journey of tireless effort, carefully structured plans, and a real investment in Oman's economic future. It reflects years of consistent dedication, culminating in the development of the bank's comprehensive Tumouhi ecosystem — the most inclusive banking platform designed to support SMEs on every level: financial, technical, digital, and advisory. Oman Arab Bank has transformed from a financial service provider into an active growth partner in the success stories of thousands of local companies by offering flexible, customizable financial solutions, including term loans, working capital financing, and a full range of trade facilities tailored to different stages of business development; however, the bank's role has never been limited to financing — it has built a fully integrated digital infrastructure aligned with global standards, including smart payment solutions such as Soft POS, payment links, full digital banking platforms, and dedicated corporate branches and regional cash centers. Even more, the bank has redefined SME support through structured training and empowerment programs like Ruwad Al Arabi , Women's Leadership Development , and Financial Literacy , as well as through strategic partnerships with national institutions like the SME Development Authority (Riyada) to organize entrepreneurial competitions and target ed empowerment campaigns across Oman's governorates.
Recognizing that many freelance and informal businesses are often overlooked by traditional banking, Oman Arab Bank designed dedicated solutions that accommodate the unique needs of this segment — from street vendors and market traders to taxi drivers and independent service providers — thus driving tangible financial inclusion at the grassroots level. This ground-level presence has helped the bank expand its developmental footprint and reach underserved populations in a practical and meaningful way. Commenting on this achievement, Sulaiman Al Hinai, Chief Wholesale Banking Officer at Oman Arab Bank, stated: 'This award is a confirmation of what we have committed to from day one — to be a creator of opportunity, not just a responder; a builder of business ecosystems, not just a lender. We believe SMEs are not a complementary sector, but the economic center of gravity and the axis of national transformation toward sustainable growth.' He added, 'We don't just offer banking products — we provide a fully integrated environment of support, guidance, expertise, and networks to help every entrepreneur turn ideas into impact.'
With this recognition, Oman Arab Bank once again proves that it is more than a bank — it is a vital developmental force helping reshape Oman's economic landscape and placing SMEs at the heart of the national equation. This aligns directly with Oman Vision 2040's priorities of economic diversification, productivity, youth empowerment, and building a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy. The Bank stands firmly present across every step of the SME journey — from funding to advisory, training to partnership, and digital solutions to on-the-ground support — forging ahead with an unwavering commitment to solidify its position as the number one partner for entrepreneurship in Oman, driven by a national vision, relentless ambition, and limitless potential.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Daily News Egypt
28-06-2025
- Daily News Egypt
OECD report provides roadmap for Egypt's SME and startup sector
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Egyptian government have launched a report on small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) policy, which Cairo will use to update its national strategy for the vital sector, the government said on Saturday. The report, part of a cooperation programme between Egypt and the OECD, provides an analysis of the opportunities and challenges facing SMEs and entrepreneurs. It highlights the sector's significant potential but points to a need to encourage innovation and transition businesses from the informal to the formal sector, according to a government statement. SMEs represent more than 90% of economic activity in Egypt. Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Rania Al-Mashat said the report reflects the government's efforts to transform Egypt into a competitive, innovation- and knowledge-based economy. She noted the role of a ministerial group for entrepreneurship in coordinating efforts to support startups and said a 'Startup Charter' would be launched soon. Bassel Rahmy, head of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA), stated that the agency would work to activate the report's recommendations in coordination with local and international partners. The report noted that Egypt, with a population of over 110 million, possesses a vast market and significant entrepreneurial potential. It also acknowledged that despite a boom in venture capital and investment in research, challenges remain in improving the business climate and enhancing competition. Among its key recommendations, the report called for developing a comprehensive annual database on small business performance and adopting an 'SME impact test' before approving new legislation, while also simplifying existing laws. It suggested establishing an independent mechanism to monitor SME law implementation. The report also recommended providing tax incentives for venture capital, increasing the capital of the Credit Guarantee Company (CGC), and creating a national strategy for digitising small businesses, which would include a tiered licensing system for fintech companies. Further proposals included developing a strategy for women's entrepreneurship and boosting the efficiency of business incubators through national accreditation standards. The cooperation between Egypt and the OECD falls under a Country Programme that has been extended until 2025. The programme includes 35 projects across five main axes, designed to integrate international expertise into Egypt's national development strategy, 'Egypt Vision 2030.' Egypt recently assumed the co-chairmanship of the OECD's Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Initiative on Governance and Competitiveness for the period 2026-2030, alongside Italy and Turkey.


Mid East Info
22-06-2025
- Mid East Info
OAB Wraps Up SME Training Roadshow in Nizwa, Reaffirms Commitment to Nationwide SME Growth - Middle East Business News and Information
Muscat. 22 June, 2025. Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has successfully concluded the third leg of its SME Development Training Roadshow, held in Nizwa from 17 to 18 June, 2025. Organized in collaboration with SME Development Authority and Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nizwa, under the Bank's flagship Tumouhi initiative, the event drew wide participation from aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners in Al Dakhiliyah, continuing a nationwide mission to support and empower Oman's growing SME sector. The event was held under the auspices of H.E Sheikh Dr. Faisal bin Ali bin Rashid Al Zidi (Wali of Manah). Following successful workshops in Muscat and Sohar earlier this year, the Nizwa event brought together a dynamic mix of sessions covering financial literacy, business strategy, marketing, and HR fundamentals. Designed to offer hands-on learning and real-world insights, the two-day workshop also served as a vibrant networking hub for local entrepreneurs and industry experts. H.E Sheikh Dr. Faisal Al Zidi expressed his enthusiasm towards this initiative in supporting the SME sector, praising the government's steadfast approach and the great attention it pays to this vital sector, given its pivotal role in supporting the growth of the economy and enhancing its diversity. He emphasized that supporting entrepreneurs and emerging business owners contributes to creating new job opportunities and enhancing local innovation. H.E Sheikh Dr Faisal Al Zidi stated, 'This workshop is a true turning point for entrepreneurs. They would walk in with ideas, and leave with a plan, equipped with the confidence to take their businesses to the next level. The sessions were practical, relevant, and exactly what small business owners and entrepreneurs would need.' Sulaiman Al Hinai, Chief Wholesale Banking Officer at Oman Arab Bank, commented on the roadshow's continued momentum, 'At Oman Arab Bank, we view SMEs as key drivers of economic resilience and innovation. Through Tumouhi, we're not just delivering training — we're creating access, building networks, and empowering business owners in every corner of the Sultanate. The response in Nizwa has been incredibly encouraging, and we remain committed to reaching even more regions with the tools and support SMEs need to thrive.' The Tumouhi Roadshow is part of OAB's long-term strategy to promote financial inclusion, empower local talent, and align with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. By providing practical tools and strategic guidance, OAB aims to equip SMEs with the foundations to grow, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the national economy. The Bank has confirmed that future roadshows are in the pipeline, with a commitment to covering all regions across the Sultanate in the months ahead.


Mid East Info
21-06-2025
- Mid East Info
KFED and ADPIC sign strategic agreement to collaborate on infrastructure development in Abu Dhabi - Middle East Business News and Information
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development KFED and the Abu Dhabi Projects and Infrastructure Centre ADPIC signed a strategic agreement to advance bilateral cooperation and support the procurement activities of entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Programme. The agreement was signed by Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development and H.E. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC, during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit, held recently at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre. The strategic decision reaffirms both entities' commitment to accelerating industrial development and offering innovative solutions to entrepreneurs operating in the infrastructure sector. Most notably, the agreement seeks to accomplish key objectives –providing targeted procurement support programs for SMEs, connecting these enterprises with government and private sector entities across Abu Dhabi to capitalise on available procurement opportunities, and facilitating cooperation and participation in SME-focused programs and activities in the emirate to promote the sustainable development of the sector. Commenting on the agreement, Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said: 'We are pleased to further strengthen our partnership with ADPIC through this strategic agreement, enabling us to empower entrepreneurs and enhance their role in Abu Dhabi's vital infrastructure sector. The collaboration fuels our shared commitment to supporting SMEs and fostering an environment that promotes innovation and growth, which aligns with the forward-thinking vision of our wise leadership and Abu Dhabi's goals of building a more sustainable and advanced future.' H.E. Maysarah Mahmoud Eid, Director General of ADPIC, added,'This strategic partnership with the Khalifa Fund is a pivotal step in strengthening Abu Dhabi's economic ecosystem. Our collaboration underscores ADPIC's commitment to a holistic approach to infrastructure development. By actively supporting our SMEs and integrating them into critical infrastructure projects, we are fostering innovation and local content while also diversifying our supply chain, driving sustainable growth, and building a more resilient and inclusive economy for the future of our Emirate.' The Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit serves as a comprehensive platform for policymakers, investors, developers, contractors, and industry experts from around the world to address emerging trends, showcase innovative solutions, and expand strategic partnerships that drive the development of resilient, integrated cities. By gathering industry leaders and innovators under one roof, the event seeks to promote excellence in the construction and urban planning sectors, ultimately raising living standards in accordance with Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision for sustainable development and economic prosperity.