Sohar International has partnered with Visa to introduce the She’s Next programme in Oman, a national initiative aimed at supporting the growth of women-led businesses through funding, mentorship and skills development. The programme forms part of Sohar International’s wider focus on socio-economic development and entrepreneurship aligned with Oman Vision 2040.
Open to Omani female entrepreneurs across sectors, the initiative will accept applications through an open registration process. Shortlisted candidates will then move through a structured evaluation and development pathway, leading to the selection of winners in several categories. A total prize pool of OMR 38,000 has been allocated, including a Main Prize of OMR 21,000, a Runner-Up Prize of OMR 11,500 and a People’s Favorite Prize of OMR 5,500.
Abdul Qadir Al Sumali, Chief Retail & Premier Banking Officer at Sohar International, said: “Supporting women entrepreneurs is not a matter of symbolism; it is a strategic imperative for economies seeking depth, resilience, and diversity in enterprise. At Sohar International, our role extends beyond financing to creating conditions where ambition can be translated into durable outcomes. She’s Next reflects this approach by combining access to capital with tailored mentorship and capability-building. As part of the She’s Next program, participants will also benefit from our Be Zahiya and Zahiya Plus tailored banking solutions, through which they will have access to financial tools and exclusive benefits. We are proud to partner with Visa, an institution whose global advocacy for inclusive growth closely aligns with our values and reinforces our shared belief that meaningful progress is achieved through collaboration, discipline, and practical support.”
Nasser Bdeir, Visa’s General Manager for Oman, added: “Visa is proud to bring She’s Next to Oman in partnership with Sohar International Bank. She’s Next program delivers what matters most; access to capital, expert mentorship, and practical training to help Omani women founders grow their businesses and strengthen the local economy. This program is about turning ambition into action and creating opportunities that drive long-term impact”.
The programme builds on Sohar International’s existing Be Zahiya and Zahiya Plus offerings, which address the financial needs of women at different stages of their personal and professional lives. Visa’s Women SMB Digitalization Index highlights the relevance of such initiatives, showing that while many women entrepreneurs in Oman use websites and social media for growth, gaps remain in innovation and payment acceptance skills.
Five finalists will receive personalised mentorship from Omani entrepreneur Dr. Siham Ahmed Al-Harthi. Lahunna will manage the applicant qualification process and provide support in pitch readiness and preparation.
Applications opened on 13 January 2026 and will remain open for four weeks.
About Sohar International:
Sohar International is Oman’s fastest-growing bank, guided by a clear vision to become a world-leading Omani service company that helps customers, communities, and people prosper and grow. With a purpose to help people ‘win’ by delivering responsive banking for their ever-changing world, the bank offers innovative solutions across Commercial and Investment Banking, Wealth Management, Islamic Banking, and more. Operating with a strong digital-first approach and an expanding regional footprint—including presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia—Sohar International is committed to driving value through strategic partnerships and a dynamic customer experience. Learn more at www.SIB.om
About Visa:
Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.
