MUSCAT: In recognition of its pioneering and remarkable role in supporting the SME sector, Bank Muscat, the leading financial service provider in the Sultanate of Oman, has recently been bestowed the North Batinah Award for Entrepreneurship in the award’s 2023 first edition. The Bank has won the award for the categories “The Best Financing Service Provider” and “The Best Banking Institution from the Public Perspective” during a monumental award ceremony organized by North Al Batinah Governer’s Office in Sohar. The ceremony was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Said bin Mohammed Al Saqri, the Minister of Economy, in the presence of a number of executives and officials from various institutions as well as a vast audience of attendees. During the event, Ibrahim bin Khamis Al Balushi, Senior Assistant General Manager, SMEs, Bank Muscat, received the award trophy on behalf of the Bank. In essence, Bank Muscat’s recognition with the NBA in both categories came based on the public views and reviews set forth by the award evaluation committee.
Speaking on this remarkable milestone, Ibrahim bin Khamis Al Balushi, Senior Assistant General Manager, SMEs, Bank Muscat, stated: “I would like to express my happiness and extreme pride in the Bank’s success of winning the North Batinah Award in two categories. The first version of the North Batinah Award for Entrepreneurship can be said to be a representation of the progress and development seen in the SME sector in Al Batinah North. Therefore, this recognition signifies a testament of the Bank’s contribution to the entire sector in the country through the wide range of banking services and facilities offered to the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Bank is constantly committed to financial inclusion and the development of the SMEs and entrepreneurs, aiming to go beyond banking and become a major driver of sustainable growth in the country. In line with Oman’s vision2040, the SME sector is a wide field where potential opportunities can be utilized to foster a market of economic competitiveness. Hence, the Bank will uphold its commitment to being a contributory and supportive partner for the success of various businesses and economic sectors.”
Ibrahim Al Balushi added: “The event also constitutes an instrumental initiative to recognize the roles and achievements of many other institutions and corporates that have contributed to the growth of commercial sectors in the Sultanate. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the organizing committee of the North Batinah Award for Entrepreneurship and gratitude to the entire audience and the Bank’s customers for their trust in the Bank as a pioneering institution in supporting the SMEs and entrepreneurs. We will maintain our commitment to better serving our customers from individuals and corporates.”
Positioning itself as a leading institution in supporting the SME sector, Bank Muscat has established a specialized department to offer customized products and services tailored specifically for SMEs, aiming to address the needs of entrepreneurs and facilitate the growth of the SMEs by effectively managing challenges through strategic planning and prudent financial management. Over the past twenty years, Bank Muscat has prioritized the development of this pivotal sector by recognizing both its opportunities and challenges to develop its products and services to businesses and bolster the Sultanate’s economy. Operating within a strategic framework, the Bank has launched programs and initiatives that reinforce the Bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and community service as well as its dedication to serving the diverse needs of the SME sector. This approach aligns with the Bank's overarching vision “To serve you better, everyday.”