Under the Patronage of His Excellency Majid bin Said Al Bahri, Oman Arab Bank Promotes Financial Awareness Among Youth in the Sultanate of Oman

Under the Patronage of His Excellency Majid bin Said Al Bahri, Oman Arab Bank Promotes Financial Awareness Among Youth in the Sultanate of Oman

Muscat, XX May 2025 – Oman Arab Bank, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, has launched its pioneering initiative, Money Adventures for Young Savers, to prepare future generations for financial success. His Excellency Majid bin Said Al Bahri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education for Administrative and Financial Affairs, inaugurated the programme during a ceremony at Al-Ula Basic Education School in Al Ghubrah. The event marked the official launch of a nationwide campaign to equip students with essential financial literacy skills, in line with the Ministry’s ‘Khazna’ initiative.

Launched at a pivotal time, Money Adventures for Young Savers aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 by fostering a financially aware and responsible generation. The programme employs a forward-thinking educational model that combines interactive learning with real-life experiences. Students explore key financial concepts such as earning, saving, smart spending, and charitable giving through age-appropriate activities and engaging, hands-on learning stations.

In its first year, the programme will reach 3,000 students across 50 schools in Oman, with 60 students participating from each school. Organisers will divide students into two groups to maximise engagement and learning outcomes. Seven interactive stations will offer rich educational content and experiential learning opportunities that make financial education accessible and enjoyable.

At the launch, Mr. Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, said, “In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, it’s vital to equip young people with the financial knowledge to make informed, responsible decisions. Through Money Adventures for Young Savers, we aim to nurture a new generation that values saving, investing, and prudent financial management. Our collaboration with the Ministry of Education enables us to deliver this impactful initiative and contribute meaningfully to the financial education of Oman’s youth.”

This initiative reflects a strong national partnership. Skilled Omani youth from Oman Arab Bank and the Ministry of Education developed the programme’s educational content, training materials, and interactive tools. Their collaboration highlights a shared commitment to nurturing local talent and investing in educational initiatives that build a solid financial knowledge foundation among students.

The programme will expand to include more schools across the Sultanate, reaffirming Oman Arab Bank’s and the Ministry’s commitment to providing inclusive, high-quality financial education. The goal is to empower all students with the financial skills they need to navigate life confidently and responsibly.

As part of its broader community investment strategy, Oman Arab Bank views financial literacy as a cornerstone of sustainable development. This initiative reinforces the Bank’s role as a proactive contributor to national goals. It supports economic and social progress by helping youth make informed financial choices that positively shape their futures and communities.

 

Oman Arab Bank Powers a Cashless Experience at Muscat International Book Fair 2025

 

Oman Arab Bank Powers a Cashless Experience at Muscat International Book Fair 2025

Muscat. 28 April 2025. Oman Arab Bank (OAB) is proud to announce its role as the Official Banking Sponsor of the Muscat International Book Fair 2025, taking place from April 24 to May 3 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center (OCEC). One of the most anticipated cultural events in the Sultanate, the book fair attracts thousands of visitors annually, celebrating literature, learning, and creativity. This year’s edition was inaugurated under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Fahad bin Al-Jalanda Al Said, President of Sultan Qaboos University, with H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and Member of the UAE Supreme Council, attending as the esteemed Chief Guest.

As part of its sponsorship, OAB is enabling a fully cashless shopping experience at the fair through the deployment of its innovative SoftPOS payment solution. All book stalls will be equipped with OAB’s tap-to-pay technology, offering visitors a seamless and secure way to complete their purchases using cards or smart devices.

Commenting on the bank’s active role in the book fair, Mr Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, stated, “Our involvement with the Muscat International Book Fair reflects our continued commitment to supporting cultural initiatives while showcasing practical, customer-focused innovations. Through SoftPOS, we’re creating a modern and convenient payment experience that matches the forward-thinking spirit of the event. We’re not only proud to sponsor the fair but to actively enhance how people interact with it.”

In addition to powering payments, OAB will be hosting an interactive booth at the venue, where visitors can explore the bank’s innovative products and services. Key highlights include Idikhar, the intuitive monthly saving plan. Idikhar is a smart and flexible savings solution offering attractive returns of up to 4.5% p.a., designed to help customers achieve their long-term financial goals.

Additionally, the bank will showcase the Youth Accounts; accounts tailor made for the younger generation to promote financial literacy and independence from an early age. The booth will also feature family-friendly activities, exclusive giveaways, and on-the-spot offers for new customers.

OAB’s sponsorship of the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 is part of its broader strategy to promote digital transformation and community engagement across Oman. By blending culture with convenience, the bank aims to highlight how technology can support and enhance meaningful experiences. Oman Arab Bank invites everyone to visit the fair, go cashless with OAB SoftPOS, and explore how the bank continues to innovate in service of its customers and community.

OAB Showcases Its Initiatives to Support Entrepreneurs at Chamber Meeting

 

OAB Showcases Its Initiatives to Support Entrepreneurs at Chamber Meeting

 

 

Muscat: As part of its ongoing support for the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sector, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) participated in a meeting of the SMEs Committee at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The discussion focused on enhancing collaboration and developing banking solutions to support entrepreneurs and business owners.

OAB’s team presented its innovative initiatives for SME growth, including the “Tumouhi” program, which provides comprehensive financial services and credit facilities. The program is supported by an integrated digital platform accessible via online and mobile banking—the first of its kind in Oman—designed to meet the evolving needs of entrepreneurs. Additionally, the bank offers electronic payment solutions, including point-of-sale systems and mobile payments. OAB also runs a nationwide training program, featuring workshops on financial literacy and financial planning skills.

Commenting on the meeting, Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of OAB, stated: “We are pleased to have been invited to this meeting by the SMEs Committee of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Our participation reaffirms our commitment to supporting this vital sector and contributing to sustainable development in Oman. We are confident that OAB’s programs and initiatives will continue to foster a thriving business environment, supporting the private sector and entrepreneurs while paving the way for their growth, expansion, and success.”

He added: “OAB’s financial services and financing products are in high demand among SME owners, reflecting notable growth in our SME financing portfolio. The bank places great emphasis on understanding business needs, continuously innovating to provide tailored financial solutions for all customer segments. SMEs now represent a significant part of our client base—an achievement we take pride in. Through this, OAB remains committed to excellence in Oman’s banking sector and plays a pivotal role in supporting the private sector while advancing Oman’s Vision 2040 to empower SMEs as engines of economic growth, development partners, and sustainable sources of employment.”

OAB continues to develop innovative initiatives for SMEs, including the recent launch of a dedicated digital financial solutions platform for entrepreneurs. Additionally, “Tumouhi” program has evolved into one of Oman’s leading SME support initiatives, offering a comprehensive platform for financial services, training, and exclusive benefits. The program’s workshops focus on corporate governance, compliance, and strategies to navigate business challenges, ensuring the long-term sustainability of SMEs.

“At OAB, we recognize the vast potential and ambitions of entrepreneurs and their invaluable contributions to Oman’s economy. We are committed to providing all necessary support to strengthen this role and expand our partnerships in line with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives of diversification and sustainability,” Al Harthi added.

Sheikh Rashid Al Maslahi, First Deputy Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the importance of this sector, which the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry pays special attention to due to its vital role in sustainable development. He also commended the tangible role played by OAB in developing the SME sector through its financial programs and initiatives that facilitate business growth. He emphasized that the banking sector remains the primary source of funding for development projects.

Al Maslahi stated: “OAB’s innovative and high-impact initiatives have played a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurship in Oman, empowering SMEs to launch and expand their businesses. The bank’s ‘Tumouhi’ program, in particular, has become a benchmark for SME growth, offering financial solutions, an integrated digital platform, and training programs for entrepreneurs across all governorates.”

Hosting OAB aligns with the Chamber’s initiative to expand partnerships with the banking sector and showcase successful financing models for SMEs, a key driver of economic growth that represents the majority of private-sector businesses in Oman.

 

OAB Sponsors the Inspirational “Safar” Tour for Dialogues with Visionary Leaders

OAB Sponsors the Inspirational “Safar” Tour for Dialogues with Visionary Leaders

 

Muscat – Oman Arab Bank (OAB) is sponsoring the inspirational “Safar” tour, which was relaunched in April. The tour features a series of dialogue sessions with prominent Omani leaders and thinkers who share real-life experiences and enrich conversations around visionary thinking, innovation in leadership, and paving the way toward achieving the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

The tour kicked off with its first session at the Middle East College Theater in Muscat Governorate, followed by the second at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment in Salalah. The final session will be held at the Sohar University Theater. The sessions are moderated by Mohammed Al Hinai, founder of the youth podcast Jalsat Karak, a platform that promotes creativity in Oman’s cultural landscape.

The tour features distinguished guests, including Dr. Hani Al Qadhi, Senior Consultant in General and Trauma Surgery, Visiting Professor at the University of British Columbia in Canada, and Director General of Health Services in Dhofar Governorate. Also featured is Dr. Lamya Al Haj, Associate Professor at Sultan Qaboos University and PhD holder in Biology from University College London. Recognized as one of the leading young scientific figures in Oman and globally, she has made significant contributions in technology, education, and community service, and has been honored with numerous prestigious regional and international awards.

Sulaiman Al Harthi, Chief Executive Officer of OAB, stated:“OAB is proud to sponsor the inspirational ‘Safar’ tour, a prominent cultural event in the Sultanate of Oman. Our participation reflects the Bank’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to the social and economic objectives of Oman Vision 2040. The innovative perspectives shared by these distinguished Omani leaders are catalysts for transformation and a powerful source of inspiration for youth, empowering them to lead the country toward its ambitious goals.”

He added: “Our involvement in such purposeful programs and events reaffirms OAB’s dedication to strengthening community engagement, particularly among the youth. As a well-established financial institution in the Sultanate, the Bank continues to develop and support initiatives that align with the goals of sustainable development and contribute to economic growth.”

OAB further reinforces its leadership in driving the banking sector toward comprehensive digital transformation and innovation in financial solutions that elevate customer experience. The Bank is proud of the success of its innovative services and the positive impact of its flagship programs—Ruwad Al Arabi and National Leadership Development—in supporting the goals of Oman Vision 2040. These initiatives aim to enhance skills, develop national talent, stimulate innovation, boost the competitiveness of Omani youth in the job market, and support SMEs in growing, expanding, and launching projects that promote sustainability and economic diversification in the country.

 

Oman Arab Bank offers 4% cashback to its credit card holders this Eid

Oman Arab Bank offers 4% cashback to its credit card holders this Eid

Muscat. 25 March, 2025. In celebration of the upcoming Eid al-Fitr, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) is pleased to announce the launch of its special Eid al-Fitr Spend Campaign, designed to reward OAB credit cardholders with 4% cashback for local purchases made during the festive period. The campaign will run from March 29th to April 5th, 2025, and aims to encourage local spending while providing a unique opportunity for OAB customers to earn cashback on their everyday purchases.

 

The campaign is open to all OAB credit cardholders who accumulate a total spend of OMR 500 during the Eid holiday week. To make the reward even more exciting, the first 250 eligible customers who meet the spending requirement will receive 4% cashback on their purchases. The cashback will be credited to their accounts within 30 days following the conclusion of the campaign.

 

Mr Juma Al Fulaiti, Deputy Head of Retail Banking at Oman Arab Bank, commented on the launch of the spending campaign, stating, “We are excited to offer this special cashback promotion to our valued credit card customers during the festive season of Eid al-Fitr. At OAB, we continuously strive to provide value and enhance our customers’ experiences. This campaign not only celebrates the spirit of Eid but also encourages local spending, benefiting both our customers and local businesses. We look forward to seeing our customers take full advantage of this exclusive offer.”

 

OAB is committed to offering its customers innovative products and services that make their banking experience both rewarding and seamless. With this new campaign, the bank hopes to deepen its relationship with cardholders and further reinforce its role in supporting local businesses across Oman.

OAB Organizes Eid Exhibition to Support SMEs

A Distinguished Marketing Outlet for Promoting National Products

OAB Organizes Eid Exhibition to Support SMEs

 

Muscat: As part of its ongoing initiatives and innovative programs to support and develop small and medium enterprises (SMEs), Oman Arab Bank (OAB) organized the Eid Exhibition, serving as a distinguished promotional platform for entrepreneurs, supporting national products, and enhancing their presence in local markets.

Held at the bank’s headquarters in Al Ghubrah, the exhibition attracted a large number of visitors and shoppers. It featured a wide range of unique products catering to all family members, along with exceptional collections that added a touch of elegance to Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.

Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of OAB, stated: “Supporting SMEs is one of our top priorities at OAB, and we are committed to providing them with the necessary support to ensure their success. We take pride in the high-quality products and exceptional collections showcased at the Eid Exhibition, produced by the participating SMEs.

“Over the years, the bank has consistently organized this exhibition during festive seasons as part of our broader initiatives to provide comprehensive support to SMEs. This includes offering competitive and affordable financing solutions to encourage entrepreneurship and support business expansion and growth. Additionally, we provide an advanced digital financial solutions platform tailored for entrepreneurs, along with a comprehensive package of support and services through the ‘Tumouhi’ program. This program continues to play a pivotal role in driving the expansion and growth of the entrepreneurial sector in Oman while contributing to the nation’s future vision by empowering youth and entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and diversification.”

Al Harthi added: “The Eid Exhibition is a unique opportunity eagerly awaited by entrepreneurs and business owners to promote their products and achieve high sales during peak shopping seasons. It also provides families with a convenient way to shop for their needs, offering exclusive and distinguished products. The exhibition witnessed a large turnout of visitors who enjoyed the festive atmosphere, accompanying events, and the opportunity to purchase unique gifts and essentials while exploring the latest fashion trends that cater to all tastes.”

The CEO also praised the efforts of OAB’s employees and their innovative initiatives, both in organizing and promoting the exhibition within the community, contributing to its growing success year after year.

OAB Organizes “Iftar Saem” Initiative in Support of Charity

OAB Organizes “Iftar Saem” Initiative in Support of Charity

Muscat: As part of its commitment to fostering a culture of charity and humanitarian work, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) successfully organized the Iftar Saem initiative this year in the Wilayat of Muttrah. This initiative is part of the bank’s annual Ramadan activities, aimed at encouraging generosity and embodying the virtues of the holy month.

This program is an integral part of OAB’s comprehensive corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, designed to create a lasting positive impact. It encompasses support for local communities and charitable work, as well as the development of programs and services and the introduction of innovative solutions that drive the growth of Oman’s private sector. Additionally, it enhances customer service and facilitates access to financial services for all segments of society, including individuals with disabilities.

The active participation of OAB employees in the Iftar Saem initiative and other community programs reflects their strong commitment to social responsibility and charitable work, which remains a core priority for the bank.

Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of OAB, stated: “OAB takes great pride in its track record of impactful and innovative CSR initiatives, which reinforce its leadership as a distinguished financial institution in Oman. The bank not only contributes to the advancement of the banking sector but also plays a vital role in volunteerism and social work. Our goal is to make a tangible, positive impact in accelerating the achievement of national objectives for sustainable human and economic development. This broad vision of corporate social responsibility is a fundamental pillar of our banking excellence strategy, which OAB has upheld throughout its distinguished journey.”

“Throughout the year, OAB organizes a diverse range of charitable, humanitarian, and volunteer programs that promote the values of solidarity and social cohesion. During the holy month of Ramadan, the bank takes pride in its impactful initiatives, including waiving outstanding debts for dozens of affected customers, continuing its annual Eid exhibition to support the growth of Omani small and medium enterprises, and launching various other community-driven initiatives.”

Al Harthi added: “As a leading financial institution in Oman, OAB recognizes the power of collaboration in achieving corporate goals. That is why we encourage our employees to share ideas and contribute creative solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of all segments of society. We extend our sincere gratitude to our team of volunteers from the bank, who has dedicated their time and effort with great commitment to organizing and ensuring the success of the Iftar Saem initiative, along with other events and activities that reflect the deep-rooted Omani values of generosity and giving.”

From February 24 to March 31 Oman Arab Bank Launches Ramadan 2025 Markabati Car Loan Campaign with Flexible Terms and Instant Approvals

From February 24 to March 31

Oman Arab Bank Launches Ramadan 2025 Markabati Car Loan Campaign with Flexible Terms and Instant Approvals

Muscat – In a move that reflects its commitment to providing innovative financial solutions to its customers, Oman Arab Bank has announced the launch of its special Ramadan Markabati Car Loan campaign. The initiative aims to meet the needs of individuals and families by offering flexible financing terms and competitive interest rates.

 

The digital campaign for the “Markabati” car loan from Oman Arab Bank started on February 24 and will continue until March 31. The bank offers flexible repayment terms of up to 10 years, helping improve personal financial management and saving time and effort. It also provides customers with the opportunity to obtain financing for purchasing new or used cars with attractive interest rates, reaching some of the lowest rates in the market, contributing to easing the financial burden on customers during the holy month of Ramadan.

 

The campaign also targets customers with existing car loans by offering easy refinancing options to help reduce interest costs and improve loan terms.

Commenting on the campaign, Mr Juma Al Fulaiti, Deputy Head of Retail Banking at Oman Arab Bank, stated:
“We are committed to meeting the needs of our customers by providing innovative and accessible financing solutions. With the spirit of Ramadan in mind, this campaign offers individuals and families the opportunity to purchase or upgrade their vehicles or even refinance their current loans under improved terms.”

The campaign targets individuals aged 21 to 65, including young professionals, first-time car buyers, and families looking to upgrade their vehicles. The bank is also focusing on customers who wish to refinance their current car loans to benefit from better interest rates and reduced financial burdens.

Oman Arab Bank’s Ramadan Markabati Car Loan offer will be available from February 24 to March 31, allowing customers to take advantage of these competitive offers and enhance their financial experience.

This year’s Ramadan car loan campaign highlights Oman Arab Bank’s continued commitment to empowering customers with the right financial decisions, providing them with tailored financial solutions that meet their aspirations. It also reinforces the bank’s dedication to offering the best facilities and products in the banking sector.

About Oman Arab Bank

Oman Arab Bank is one of the first banks to begin operations in the Sultanate, boasting a long history of achievements. Today, the bank operates a wide network of 65 branches and representative offices, along with an extensive network of 152 ATMs across the Sultanate. Oman Arab Bank provides a comprehensive range of banking products and services to its retail, corporate, and investment clients.

OAB Launches Initiative to Waive Debts of Struggling Borrowers

OAB Launches Initiative to Waive Debts of Struggling Borrowers

 

Muscat: In a move that reflects its commitment to social responsibility and support for the financial stability of the community, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has launched a pioneering initiative to waive outstanding debts for a number of its distressed customers. This initiative is part of the bank’s ongoing efforts to promote economic development and alleviate financial burdens on individuals facing challenging economic circumstances.

Through this initiative, the bank aims to empower affected customers to regain financial stability and start anew with better opportunities for economic security. This step also reflects the bank’s vision of building a sustainable relationship with its customers, founded on trust and mutual support, contributing to economic and social growth in the Sultanate of Oman.

Commenting on the initiative, Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of OAB, stated: “At OAB, we believe in standing by our customers during difficult times. This initiative reflects our firm commitment to supporting the community and fostering sustainable development. Through this effort, we aim to ease the financial burdens of those most in need—individuals who have faced unforeseen circumstances that have affected their ability to repay. We emphasize the importance of solidarity and cooperation between financial institutions and society in fostering a more stable and equitable economic environment.”

This initiative aligns with the bank’s strategy to enhance financial sustainability by providing innovative solutions to support customers and ease their financial burdens. These solutions include loan restructuring, partial debt forgiveness, and installment deferrals during religious occasions, among other measures. Such efforts contribute to improving individuals’ quality of life and strengthening the local economy in alignment with Oman’s economic and social development goals.

Al Harthi added: “As a leading institution in Oman’s banking sector, OAB embraces a broad approach to social responsibility, encompassing all aspects of comprehensive and sustainable development. The bank is committed to engaging with the community and its customers through participation in events, forums, and exhibitions, as well as supporting NGOs, charitable organizations, volunteer work, and awareness campaigns.”

Since the launch of Oman Vision 2040, OAB has been actively aligning with its objectives by accelerating its transformation into a modern banking institution focused on digital services and enriching the customer experience. The bank has introduced a variety of innovative initiatives and programs to develop national talent and leadership, supporting career growth and fostering the success of entrepreneurs in self-employment and business ventures. Additionally, OAB has significantly expanded its initiatives to contribute to the advancement of healthcare and education services, as well as the overall development of the financial and banking sectors.

The CEO of OAB expressed his delight at the bank’s strong community recognition and the prestigious awards it has received in appreciation of its innovative and advanced services. He also highlighted the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), emphasizing its role as one of the leading institutions supporting various CSR programs that create a lasting impact on community development.

OAB is one of the leading banking institutions in the Sultanate of Oman. Since its establishment over five decades ago, the bank has achieved a series of milestones, keeping pace with the evolution of the banking sector both locally and internationally while actively contributing to sustainable economic development in the country.

CAPITAL INTELLIGENCE RAISES OMAN ARAB BANK’S LONG TERM FOREIGN CURRENCY RATING FROM “BB+” TO “BBB-”

CAPITAL INTELLIGENCE raises OMAN ARAB BANK’S LONG term

foreign currency rating from “BB+” to “BBB-”

 

 

19 March 2025: Muscat, Oman:  Oman Arab Bank (OAB) announced that the international credit rating agency, Capital Intelligence Rating (CI), has raised the Long-Term Foreign Currency Rating (LT FCR) and Short-Term Foreign Currency Rating (ST FCR) to “BBB-” and “A3” respectively, from “BB+” and “B”. The outlook for the LT FCR has been revised to Stable from Positive. CI has affirmed OAB’s Bank Standalone Rating (BSR) of ‘bb+’ with a Stable outlook, Core Financial Strength (CFS) rating of ‘bbb-’, and Extraordinary Support Level (ESL) of Moderate. The upgrade follows a similar action on Oman’s sovereign ratings.

 

Commenting on the report, Sulaiman Al Harthi, Chief Executive Office of Oman Arab Bank said, “This upgrade reflects OAB’s sound financial metrics and well-established franchise supplemented by the strengthening of Oman’s economic fundamentals and prudent fiscal management. It also considers the introduction of the new banking law earlier this year, which is expected to enhance the operating environment and support the digitisation within the banking sector”.

 

He added, “The affirmation of OAB’s Bank Standalone Rating (BSR) and Core Financial Strength (CFS) demonstrates OAB’s strong financial results in 2024, the continued support of our major institutional shareholders and the favourable deposit mix, with share of CASA funds contributing to more than half of total deposits in 2024. We have also had the loan-loss reserve coverage ratio reaching the highest level seen in five years. This demonstrates our strong franchise in both the conventional banking and the Islamic banking, via our fully owned subsidiary Alizz Islamic Bank, the second largest fully-fledged Islamic bank in Oman”.