Muscat, April 6th 2015 

As part of its commitment to empower local communities with knowledge on Islamic finance and shari'a-compliant products and services, Bank Nizwa commenced the first phase of its recently launched educational platform, 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' by visiting Sultan Qaboos University, Sohar University and Shinas College of Technology. The nationwide roadshow is scheduled to conduct sessions at four additional educational institutions during the months of April and May including Nizwa University, Dhofar University, the College of Banking and Financial Studies and Majan University College. With more visits planned throughout the year, this first of its kind platform, aims to benefit approximately 1,000 students and academic faculty members across the Sultanate by the end of 2015.

"Seeing students turn out in large numbers to attend the 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' has given us an added incentive to continue with our strategy and raise awareness on Islamic finance, while providing the youth of Oman with the tools they need to make sound financial decisions," said Dr. Ashraf Al Nabhani, General Manager Corporate Support. "Using a roadshow theme, we have made our experts available and accessible to students, reaching them in their home towns and speaking to them about what they are looking for from their Shari'a-compliant financial providers."

The rise of Islamic banking in Oman continues to deliver a broad range of socioeconomic opportunities. According to a market research study conducted by the Islamic Research and Training Institute, 9% of the younger generation in Oman now, exclusively holds accounts at Islamic banks, while 22% opt for both Islamic and conventional banking services.

Dr. Al Nabhani expressed, "We are confident that the series will have a significant impact on the growth of the sector, as a more financially educated young population avail to sharia'-compliant products and services resulting in increased market share."

As awareness in local communities continues to grow, industry analysts anticipate that the Sultanate's Islamic banking assets, which accounted for 4.4% of the nation's total banking assets in 2014 are projected to reach 10% by 2018. In the meantime, Bank Nizwa's phase two of the 'Islamic Finance Knowledge Series' is expected to commence by July 2015 targeting both public and private sector organizations.

-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 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.

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