Muscat, April 29th 2015

As part of its continuous efforts to raise awareness on Islamic finance and attract future leaders to benefit from the growing industry, Bank Nizwa conducted a special session of its recently launched 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' in the Wilyata of Nizwa. Attended by H.E. Sheikh Dr. Khalifa bin Hamed Al Saadi, Governor of Dakhiliyah and H.E Sheikh Hamad bin Salim Al Aghbari, Wali of Nizwa, the session was held at the University of Nizwa and led by Dr. Jamil El Jaroudi, CEO of the Bank, who spoke to the students about the wide range of Shari'a-compliant products and services and how they can utilize them to lead financially secure lifestyles.

"The 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' proved to be an effective platform for spreading awareness of the many benefits this promising sector can provide," said H.E. Sheikh Dr. Khalifa bin Hamed Al Saadi, Governor of Dakhiliyah. "I would like to thank Bank Nizwa for bringing this platform to the Wilayat of Nizwa and we look forward to seeing the future talent in Islamic finance be at the center of excellence among other industries and instrumental in driving overall economic development."

"We are honored by the participation of His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Khalifa bin Hamed Al Saadi, Governor of Dakhiliyah, and His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Salim Al Aghbari, Wali of Nizwa in the latest edition of the 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series'," said Dr. Jamil El Jaroudi, CEO of Bank Nizwa. "From city to city, Wilayat to Wilayat, Governorate to Governorate, our team will continue meeting with communities interested in learning about Islamic finance. Through such sessions with students and more participation from government officials, the platform is introducing the industry to the general public and offering a unique perspective to youth in particular, providing them with a chance to ask questions and get as much information as possible from our experts."

Dr. El Jaroudi concluded, "Our ability to nurture local talent will be the key determinant in charting the future path of Islamic finance in the Sultanate."

With a plan to visit a number of locations from Shinas in the north to Salalah in the south, Bank Nizwa has taken solid steps to establish dialogue with communities across Oman. In March this year, the bank hit the road to spread awareness on the Islamic finance industry starting from Muscat. The bank's team then met with the students of Sultan Qaboos University, Sohar University and Shinas College of Technology. After the University of Nizwa, next step for the 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' will be Dhofar University in a bid to benefit over 1,000 students from across the Sultanate by end of 2015.

-Ends-

About Bank Nizwa
Bank Nizwa is Oman's first dedicated Islamic bank offering a unique banking experience that combines Shari'a compliant products and services with today's dynamic financial requirements. Since its inception in January 2013, the Bank has become a reliable partner to a growing customer-base seeking an alternative to conventional banking. With a number of innovative and competitive propositions, its portfolio ranges from a full suite of personal banking solutions to relationship management and treasury products for global markets.

With two years of operations, Bank Nizwa has expanded its reach, opening ten branches across Oman in Muscat, Ghoubra, Al Khoud, Barka, Nizwa, Samail, Sohar, Ibra, Sur and Salalah. As of December 31st 2014, its total assets reached OMR 253 million, representing a 29% growth over the same period in 2013 with shares traded on the Muscat Securities Market (OM: BKNZ). Further information on Bank Nizwa is available on www.banknizwa.om.

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© Press Release 2015