MUSCAT : As part of its strategy to promote and preserve Oman’s rich cultural, historical, and heritage identity across all governorates, Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate of Oman, participated in supporting the activities and events of the 9th Al Bashayer Camel Racing Festival, held from 2 to 7 February 2026 at Al Bashayer Arena in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate.
The closing ceremony was held under the patronage of HE. Sheikh AbdulMalik bin Abdullah Al Khalili, Chairman of the State Council, during which the Bank was honoured. The recognition was received on behalf of Bank Muscat by Taya bin Eid Bait Sabeea, Deputy General Manager Interior Regions, who accepted the award from His Excellency the patron of the event.
Bank Muscat’s participation comes as part of its ongoing efforts to support heritage, arts, and sports, in addition to empowering young talents, home-based businesses, and entrepreneurs. These events provide an important platform to showcase and market local products linked to Omani heritage, such as handicrafts and traditional foods, thereby contributing to the local economy, enhancing the sustainability of cultural heritage, and transforming it into an added economic value.
Commenting on the occasion, Taya bin Eid Bait Sabeea, Deputy General Manager Interior Regions at Bank Muscat, said: “We are delighted to be part of this national event that celebrates authentic Omani heritage and provides an important platform to support young talents and entrepreneurs. As the nation’s leading financial institution, our participation reflects our commitment to supporting community events that contribute to the development of governorates, empower youth, and stimulate the local economy. This aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals. Such engagements also offer a valuable opportunity to reinforce the Bank’s presence within the community and highlight our pioneering role in supporting cultural, sporting, and heritage-related initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and preserve Omani identity.”
The festival featured a wide range of accompanying activities that showcased cultural, heritage, and commercial diversity, reinforcing the integration between cultural, traditional, sporting, and marketing activities. The event also supported home-based businesses and SMEs by offering an integrated platform for exhibitors to market their products, attracting visitors from within and outside the Sultanate. The festival’s cultural, traditional, and sporting programs highlighted the deep connection between camel racing and Omani heritage, as camel racing remains a historic symbol and a key component of the country’s cultural, economic, and social fabric.
The activities included various pavilions with participation from government, private, and civil society entities. Among them was the pavilion of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, featuring home-based businesses, entrepreneurs, artisans, and Omani Women Associations. The Heritage Village pavilion showcased the crafts and traditions of Bedouin communities, while other areas included cultural and entertainment activities, a photography exhibition, and an open market featuring exhibitors from across Oman’s governorates. The festival also hosted evening performances featuring artists from Oman and abroad, alongside sports competitions, traditional arts, and live heritage shows that depicted Omani customs and crafts, particularly those related to camel culture, helping to preserve and pass these values on to future generations.
Bank Muscat remains committed to supporting national events and community-focused initiatives that promote Omani identity and preserve the nation’s heritage. The Bank continues to empower various segments of society through its comprehensive social responsibility programs carried out throughout the year, reaffirming its leading role as a key partner in Oman’s social and economic development.
