The Banking Executive Magazine- June 2026 Issue

Development Bank Development Bank TO SUPPORT PROJECTS HIT BY GEOPOLITICAL SITUATION IN REGION Development Bank has said it is preparing to offer financial facilities, including possible loan repayment deferrals, for projects affected by the current geopolitical situation in the region, in a move aimed at support- ing business continuity and mitigat- ing economic disruption. Mahmoud bin Abdullah Al Owaini, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Development Bank, said the bank is committed to implementing the Royal Directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik during this phase. In a statement to Oman News Agency, he confirmed that the bank has begun studying the sectors and projects affected by current develop- ments, with a view to assessing the possibility of postponing loan repay- ments for a period, depending on in- dividual cases. Al Owaini said the initiative aims to ensure the continuity of financed projects, reduce adverse impacts, and help businesses position them- selves to benefit from any emerging opportunities in certain sectors. He added that the Development Bank is also exploring additional fi- nancial facilitation measures to help affected enterprises manage ongoing challenges arising from the situation. Al Owaini further said the bank will launch an electronic platform to re- ceive requests for repayment defer- rals, allowing beneficiaries to submit applications easily and efficiently. These requests will be reviewed by specialists at the bank in line with the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and in implemen- tation of Royal Directives. Al Owaini expressed appreciation for the Royal patronage extended by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to- wards the private sector and SMEs, and for his continued emphasis on integrating government efforts to sup- port business owners, citizens, and residents in the Sultanate of Oman. ISSUE 210 JUNE 2026 the BANKING EXECUTIVE 29