In this episode, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with the brilliant Mr. Ali Hassan Moosa, one of the most experienced and thoughtful voices in Oman’s banking and fintech sector. We explored the evolution of digital banking in Oman over the last decade, from legacy system upgrades to the recent launch of a forward-thinking digital banking regulatory framework.

Mr. Ali shared insights from his time leading the Oman Banks Association, reflecting on the challenge of uniting competitive banks around shared goals like financial inclusion, digital literacy, and sector-wide modernisation.

We discussed the rapid rise of electronic payments (boosted by COVID) and the enthusiastic adoption of services like Apple Pay and Google Pay by Oman’s young population.

We also covered the country’s FinTech landscape: The cautious but growing collaboration between banks and fintechs, the potential of crowdfunding, and the role of regulators in encouraging innovation.

Ali offered practical advice for international FinTechs eyeing Oman, and we ended with a warm invitation to experience Oman’s unmatched natural beauty and hospitality (ideally in the cooler months!)

As always, it was a privilege to learn from someone who’s helped shape the sector and who continues to guide the next generation as an advisor, educator, and champion for progress.

As mentioned in the episode, you can reach out to Mr Ali directly via his LinkedIn.