MUSCAT : Underscoring its ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and contributing to the development and growth of the local business sector, Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate of Oman, is pleased to announce that the 12th edition of the Al Wathba Ramadan souq is set for inauguration, welcoming the public from Thursday evening, 26th February, until Saturday evening, 28th February 2026. The souq will be held at the Bank Muscat’s Head Office in Airport Heights, with the participation of approximately over 100 entrepreneurs including small business owners and home-based enterprises. The souq will also feature engaging and diverse activities for both kids and adults alike, in addition to raffle draws offering prizes for adults over the course of three days, all within a vibrant Ramadan atmosphere filled with community spirit and interaction. Bank Muscat invites everyone to seize this special opportunity to visit the souq, enjoy the accompanying activities, support local businesses, and participate in the raffle draws, in an experience that brings together the joy of shopping with the spirit of the holy month and the values of giving and family connection. Al Wathba Ramadan souq is regarded as one of the most prominent events which the Bank organizes during the holy month of Ramadan, in cooperation with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority.
The souq provides a valuable platform for entrepreneurs, home-based business owners, as well as small and micro businesses to showcase their products directly to the public, opening new marketing opportunities while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among participating businesses. Visitors will be able to explore a wide range of locally-produced goods, including fashion and apparel, health and beauty products, accessories, food items, perfumes, as well as a variety of essentials for Eid Al Fitr. The souq will be open daily from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight.
The annual launch of the event reflects the shared commitment of SME Development Authority and Bank Muscat to supporting and developing the SME sector, which represents a key pillar of the national economy. The souq has gained widespread attention from the community, encouraging visitors to support local businesses while raising awareness of the importance of home-based businesses, small, medium, and emerging enterprises. Building on its strong track record of success in previous years, the souq is expected to attract strong visitor turnout again this year, particularly given the heightened commercial activity during Ramadan and preparations for Eid Al Fitr.
Bank Muscat reaffirms its continued commitment to supporting SMEs through a range of strategic initiatives, including Al Wathba Academy, launched in 2014 to support Omani entrepreneurs. In addition, the Bank’s Al Wathba department offers an integrated suite of banking and non-banking solutions, including education and training programmes and workshops aimed at enhancing growth and expansion opportunities for entrepreneurs. Bank Muscat continues to strengthen its partnerships with government entities and the private sector, with a strong focus on empowering youth and the community, in line with the strategic objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
