17 February 2015
Muscat - Bank Nizwa, the Sultanate's first Islamic bank, recently conducted a specialized workshop on Islamic finance for 50 Islamic Studies teachers. Led by Dr. Anwar Soubra, Head of Shari'a at the bank, the workshop highlighted the principles and objectives of Islamic finance as well as the mechanics of Islamic banking, while showcasing Bank Nizwa's diverse Shari'a-compliant products and services. 

"Since inception in 2013, Bank Nizwa has adopted a nationwide strategy to raise awareness on Islamic finance across multiple audiences," said Dr. Soubra. "We have been pioneering the industry through our network of branches and competitive products and services; however we realize that a significant contributor to the growth of Islamic finance in Oman is by sharing our knowledge and know-how with the community through training opportunities such as this one."

He added, "This workshop did not only empower the teachers with the in-depth understanding of what we do at Bank Nizwa, but will also allow them to better educate Oman's youth on how to lead financially secure lifestyles through Islamic banking."

Raising awareness on Islamic finance across Oman will continue to be a key priority in Bank Nizwa's strategy as it looks to continue its contribution to the organically-increasing industry market share. The bank is planning to conduct additional workshops, as well as entering into more partnerships with public and private sector organizations, to provide all segments of society with direct access to experts who can highlight the benefits of Shari'a-compliant financial solutions.

-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 less than two years of operations, Bank Nizwa has expanded its reach, opening seven branches across Oman in Qurum, Ghoubra, Al Khoud, Nizwa, Ibra, Sohar and Salalah. As of June 30th 2014, its total assets reached OMR 236 million, representing a 39% 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.

For press inquiries and images, please contact:
Shaza Taher
TRACCS Public Relations
Telephone: +968 24 649-099
Fax: +968 24 649-088
Email: shaza.taher@traccs.net 

© Press Release 2015