EP38: Building a Future Ready Bank in Oman

In this episode, we turn to Oman and explore how its banking sector is evolving as the economy steadily diversifies beyond oil. We discuss how Vision 2040, infrastructure investment, and regulatory reforms are creating new momentum for private financing, SMEs, and Islamic banking.The conversation highlights a resilient banking system, where strong capital buffers and disciplined cost structures are supporting steady growth, even as liquidity tightens. We then dive into the technology shifts shaping Oman’s financial future—AI-led automation improving credit, compliance, and fraud management; digital-only banking gaining pace under a clear regulatory framework; and open banking APIs unlocking collaboration between banks and fintechs.We close by looking at what change really means for Omani banks: moving toward digital-first operating models, AI-powered customer experiences, and ecosystem-driven innovation. The key takeaway is clear—Oman’s future-ready banks will balance stability with agility, using technology to scale inclusion, efficiency, and trust.