Latest news with #OmaniEntrepreneurs
Zawya
26-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: OCCI to launch 4th Franchise Programme on June 29
Muscat – Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) will launch the fourth edition of its Franchise Programme on June 29 under the patronage of Sheikh al Fadhl bin Mohammed al Harthi, Secretary-General of Council of Ministers. The launch will be attended by Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI, Humood bin Salim al Saadi, Second Deputy Chairman and head of Central Franchise Committee, board members of the chamber and business representatives. The programme aims to promote franchising as a business model among Omani entrepreneurs, highlighting its economic benefits and role in developing competitive local brands. It also seeks to help these brands expand into regional and international markets. The programme supports efforts to diversify income sources and strengthen the SME sector, aligning with OCCI's strategy to improve the business climate and expand the private sector's contribution to Oman's economy under Vision 2040. According to Saadi, the fourth edition of the programme will build on the achievements of the previous one, reinforcing the chamber's commitment to empowering local businesses. 'We aim to create competitive Omani brands that can thrive both domestically and internationally,' he said. He added that a Franchise Centre was established as part of broader efforts to institutionalise franchising and offer targeted support to companies and entrepreneurs looking to scale. The centre plays a key role in facilitating expansion and reinforcing private sector leadership in development of the national economy. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
17-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sohar International and Sharakah celebrate graduation of SME Development Program participants
Muscat – Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable empowerment and inclusive growth, Sohar International, in collaboration with Sharakah, concluded the 'Sohar International Women SMEs Development Program' with a graduation ceremony held recently at Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC. The event was held under the patronage of H.E. Eng. Ahmed Hassan Alawi Al Dheeb, Vice Chairman of the General Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones. Sohar International was represented at the event by Eng. Aisha Al Saifi, Chief Transformation Officer,, Mr. Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Chief Marketing Officer and Mr. Abdul Qadir Al Sumali, Chief Retail and Premier Banking Officer of Sohar International. The ceremony marked the culmination of a six-month transformative journey undertaken by ten Omani women entrepreneurs from across the Sultanate. Designed to strengthen core business competencies and unlock future growth opportunities, the program focused on equipping participants with practical skills in financial planning, digital enablement, and strategic marketing. The event commenced with a welcome speech delivered by Mr. Fares Al Harthy, Assistant Manager of SME Development at the Fund for Development of Youth Projects, in which he emphasized the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs in supporting the national economy and promoting economic diversification. This was followed by a speech from the bank delivered by Mr. Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Chief Marketing Officer at Sohar International, who highlighted the bank's role in supporting Omani women and enhancing their entrepreneurial capabilities. Participants in the program were then given the opportunity to share their experiences and how they benefited from the initiative. The event concluded with the distribution of graduation certificates to the participants in recognition of their efforts and dedication throughout the program. Highlighting in his speech, Mr. Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Chief Marketing Officer of Sohar International, said: 'At Sohar International, we view empowerment as a long-term investment in national progress. This initiative reflects our commitment to shaping a resilient and inclusive economy by equipping Omani women entrepreneurs with the tools to lead, innovate, and grow. By fostering capability and confidence, we are not only supporting individual success but also contributing to Oman's strategic vision for sustainable and diversified economic development. We are proud to be part of a journey that nurtures entrepreneurial potential while aligning with Oman Vision 2040's priorities around human capital development, private sector competitiveness, and inclusive growth. This is not just a program—it is a platform for real, measurable change. And we remain committed to expanding such opportunities across the nation.' Launched in October 2024, the initiative stems from a strategic partnership between Sohar International and Sharakah. Through a structured mix of interactive workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, participants gained valuable insights into cash flow management, customer engagement, and the use of artificial intelligence to boost business performance. The training was delivered in a peer-driven format, ensuring real-time application of concepts and collaborative learning. Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Ali Ahmed Muqaibal, CEO of Sharakah, said, 'We are proud to collaborate with Sohar International on this transformative program. Participating women have demonstrated incredible commitment, and through this program, we have ensured they are equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the digital economy. This is the beginning of a new chapter for these entrepreneurs.' The program also included business diagnostics and tailored mentoring designed to help participants refine their value propositions and expand their market reach—laying the groundwork for long-term resilience and scalability. As the event drew to a close, the graduates received their certificates of completion—symbolizing not just the end of the program, but the beginning of a new chapter as empowered entrepreneurs capable of driving value in a dynamic business environment. Through initiatives such as these, Sohar International continues to play a strategic role in enabling Omani talent, nurturing innovation, and building capacity across key segments of society—particularly among youth and women. By aligning its efforts with national priorities, the bank contributes meaningfully to shaping a more inclusive, digitally empowered, and entrepreneurially driven economy, reinforcing its position as a catalyst for long-term socio-economic progress. About Sohar International Sohar International is Oman's fastest-growing bank, guided by a clear vision to become a world-leading Omani service company that helps customers, communities, and people prosper and grow. With a purpose to help people 'win' by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, the bank offers innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Islamic Banking, and more. Operating with a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional footprint—including presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Sohar International is committed to driving value through strategic partnerships and a dynamic customer experience. Learn more at
Times of Oman
24-05-2025
- General
- Times of Oman
Khuwair Square Project inaugurated in Muscat's Ministries District
MUSCAT: The Khuwair Square project was officially inaugurated in the Ministries District of Muscat, spanning an area of over 21,000 square meters. The ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Sayyid Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi, Governor of Muscat. The project features more than 9,000 square meters of lush green spaces, dedicated walking and cycling paths extending 435 meters, multiple seating areas, and a café with an open-air rooftop operated by Omani entrepreneurs. Additionally, the square includes public facilities and parking, making it an ideal destination for leisure, relaxation, and outdoor activities. Architectural elements reflecting Omani identity have been incorporated into the design, including traditional _Mashrabiya_ patterns, locally sourced _Desert Rose_ marble, and Nizwa stone. A striking feature of the square is a towering flagpole standing 126 meters high, constructed using 141 tons of steel, with the Omani flag measuring 25 meters in length and 44 meters in width waving above. Speaking at the inauguration, His Excellency Sayyid Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi described the project as a significant addition to Muscat's public spaces, symbolizing both tradition and modernity. 'We hope this square will serve as a vibrant recreational space and a key attraction that enriches Muscat's urban landscape, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike," he stated. "It aligns with the governorate's vision to foster social connections and human-centered urban planning.' Meanwhile, Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Hamidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, highlighted the project's role in shaping sustainable and dynamic public spaces that meet the aspirations of the community while integrating natural elements and Omani heritage.
