Sohar International has launched the ‘She’s Next’ program in partnership with Visa, reinforcing its commitment to driving socio-economic growth and empowering entrepreneurship in Oman.
This national initiative aims to accelerate the growth of women-led businesses by offering a comprehensive ecosystem that includes financial support, expert mentorship, and capability-building opportunities.
Eligible Omani female entrepreneurs can apply through an open registration process, following which shortlisted participants will progress through a structured evaluation and development journey, culminating in the selection of winners across multiple award categories and a total prize pool of $98,831 (OMR 38,000).
The initiative aims to equip women entrepreneurs with the capital, skills, and practical tools required to scale sustainably and contribute meaningfully to economic diversification and private-sector growth in line with national priorities and Oman Vision 2040.
Abdul Qadir Al Sumali Chief Retail & Premier Banking Officer, Sohar International
“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.”
In addition, Nasser Bdeir, Visa’s General Manager for Oman, said that, “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.”
Sohar International’s Continued Support for Women-Led Businesses
She’s Next program builds on Sohar International’s continuous efforts to empower women through the bank’s Be Zahiya and Zahiya Plus accounts, designed to address the evolving financial needs of women across the different stages of their personal and professional journeys.
Together, these initiatives reflect Sohar International’s holistic approach to women empowerment, combining targeted funding and mentorship with long term financial solutions that help women-led businesses sustain growth beyond the program cycle, as per the statement.
