OABC News

On July 3rd, 2024, we had an incredible session exploring the world of client acquisition! In partnership withour Premium member @why_stories, we uncovered strategies to identify, reach, and engage niche audiences effectively.

A huge thank you to our guest speaker, @lubnaforzley, Founder and CEO of Stories, for sharing her invaluable insights and expertise. Her extensive experience with top brands like Coca-Cola, Google, and American Express truly enriched our discussion.

Here are some highlights:
– Proven techniques for targeting your niche audience
– Strategies for effective client engagement
– Real-world examples and success stories

We were thrilled with the participation and the engaging questions from our members.

We also want to extend our gratitude to @why_stories for gifting a 1-on-1 in-person coaching session to the participants. This exclusive opportunity allowed members to receive personalized guidance and actionable advice.

On June 23, 2024, OABC Premium members had an incredible time at the exclusive tour of the magnificent Mandarin Oriental, Muscat.
They were captivated by the stunning facilities, luxurious rooms, elegant outlets, and the welcoming, homey lobby. This property is truly exceptional!

The event was not just about exploring the beauty of the @mo_muscat, but also about building connections. Our members enjoyed networking over delicious canapés, all while taking in the magnifique view.

A huge thank you to @mo_muscat for their wonderful hospitality and making this event so special. Click here to see more.

On June 11, 2024, we tried something new by hosting our first-ever OABC Corporate Padel Challenge! The event was a perfect blend of fun, sport, and networking, with some fantastic prizes up for grabs.

Thank you to @alqurumsports for hosting us, managing the challenge, and providing winners’ prizes and medals. A huge shoutout to @crowneplazamuscat for the grand prizes. We are immensely grateful to @adcmuscat , @intercontinentalmuscat , and @europcar_oman for their amazing raffle draw prizes, which added great value to the event and excited all attendees.

Big congrats to our top teams: @frescooman (first place), @thefalcon_expeditions (runner up), NJP (Nicholson Jones Partnership Ltd) and Bait Al Qanoon (In third place). Everyone played well and most importantly, had a great time doing so.

It was a memorable day for everyone involved, and we are thrilled by the enthusiasm and participation of our members. We may have to do this again next year! Click here to see more.

OABC’s office is in Bait Al Reem Business Center which means we share a building with several dozen other companies in Oman. So of course we had to plan a “Meet Your Neighbors Networking Event”!  On June 2nd, 2024, business minds converged for a brief coffee hour of connection and camaraderie at the whole-building social. We’d like to offer special thanks to our sponsor 3rd Street Donuts, for adding a sweet touch to the occasion. Follow us to know more.

Was an exciting “Afternoon with AI” at COMEX on May 30, 2024! Our newest overseas member from Dallas, Texas, MindPropel, presented a captivating session on Generative AI Adoption titled “Real Business Value in 90 Days or Less with the InnovAIt Framework.”

Event Highlights:

Generative AI’s Global Impact:
MindPropel showcased how generative AI is revolutionizing industries worldwide.

GenAI in Oman and the MENA Region:
The session explored the immense potential and specific implications of generative AI for our region.

Essential GenAI Adoption for Businesses:
Participants learned why integrating generative AI is crucial for maintaining competitiveness.

Bridging Vendor Offerings and Business Needs:
The discussion highlighted existing disparities and effective strategies to address them.

Introducing the InnovAIt Framework:
MindPropel demonstrated how their InnovAIt Framework bridges gaps and delivers tangible value.

Achieving Results in 90 Days:
Companies discovered how to implement GenAI quickly for substantial benefits.

Next Steps – GenAI Masterclass:
Kickstart your AI journey with MindPropel’s in-person 2-day GenAI Masterclass in Muscat on September 2 & 3. Invite your leadership teams to stay ahead of the curve.

Follow us to know more.

Muscat, Oman – There are many changes coming for all employees in Oman, whether Omani or expatriate, when it comes to End of Service Benefits. Timelines and specifics raise questions for many leaders – and this is what prompted the OABC’s latest informational event for the business community.

The Oman American Business Council (OABC), Oman’s largest and most active business networking group and the official affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Oman, in partnership with OABC Corporate Member Bait Al Qanoon, a purely Omani Law Company with extensive international experience, hosted a successful morning session on the new Mandatory Saving Scheme, under the Oman Social Protection Law.

The event took place on May 29th at the Crowne Plaza Qurum Hotel, welcoming over 100 professionals and business leaders to discuss the significant changes in store for companies in Oman under the Social Protection Law. As has become the typical model for OABC’s morning sessions, there was a chance for networking before kicking off the event. This was followed by a clear and succinct presentation expertly delivered by Noor Al Khonji, Associate at Bait Al Qanoon.  Finally, almost one hour was spent discussing and answering every question raised by members of the OABC, via a panel of partners and experts from the firm.

Ahmed Al Abri,  Partner at Bait Al Qanoon Law firm, commented, ”Bait Al Qanoon was delighted to present ‘The Social Protection Law and Savings Scheme: Implementation & Implications,’ arranged by the Oman American Business Council (OABC). We are grateful for the active participation and keen interest from OABC members, and extend a big thank you to the OABC team for making this event possible.”

“What will happen to the current gratuity I’ve already accumulated?  When does the new requirement for maternity leave begin?  What if an employee prefers to opt out of the new scheme? These were just three of the 15-20 questions asked and answered by members during the session,” says Rebecca Olson, CEO of the OABC. “We are so grateful for the time and sponsorship of Bait Al Qanoon, and thank each team member for sharing their knowledge and experience with our members.”

The event was free for OABC members, as are all OABC events, which number between 30-40 per year.

On May 21, 2024, OABC members participated in an engaging and informative online webinar, “Mental Health for All,” presented by our corporate member, Eunoia Clinic, as part of their special awareness campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month in May.

In this interactive single-session seminar, the participants explored the importance of mental health in corporate environments. Our amazing facilitators, Sara Hassan and Rima Fattouh, both experienced Mental Health Therapists, guided the participants through an examination of the basics of mental health, debunking myths and misconceptions along the way.

They uncovered the various aspects of mental health and provided practical strategies to maintain healthy patterns both in the workplace and beyond.

Key Takeaways been discussed during the webinar are as following:

– Introduction to the basics of mental health.
– Highlighting myths and stigma around mental health and mental illness
– Exploring the domains of mental health
– Strategies to sustain healthy patterns of mental health in the workplace and beyond

Muscat, Oman – The Oman American Business Council (OABC), Oman’s largest and most active business networking group and the official affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Oman, in partnership with OABC Premium Member Dentons, the region’s leading law firm, was delighted to host a successful morning session on the new regulations Personal Data Protection Law in Oman.

The event took place on May 15th at the Intercontinental Hotel Muscat and brought together over 100 esteemed legal professionals, executives, and business leaders to discuss the significant changes introduced by the new data protection law. After networking and coffee, Dentons’ team delivered a comprehensive presentation that left no stone unturned, addressing all aspects of the law and ensuring clarity for attendees. Their expert panel adeptly fielded questions, clarifying doubts and providing additional insights to the audience.

Highlights of the event included:

1. Presentation by Dentons, providing a comprehensive overview of the new personal data protection law and its implications for businesses and employees in Oman.
2. Q&A session providing participants with the opportunity to seek clarification on specific aspects of the law.
3. Networking breaks, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded business people and expand their professional network.
   
   

Jamie Gibson, Managing Partner and Head of Corporate at Dentons Oman, commented, “The Dentons team of data protection experts were very pleased to present this session on the Oman Data Protection Law to a room full of very engaged OABC members. Thank you to the OABC team for this opportunity and support in making this such a successful event.”

“Some companies do not realize that they need to quickly comply within the next year with these new regulations, for example, the requirement to appoint a data protection officer (DPO), whether your company is large or small,” says Rebecca Olson, CEO of the OABC.  “We were astonished at the amount of questions raised to the Dentons’ team and of course, not surprised by their skills in answering each one. We would like to once more thank Dentons for sponsoring the event and giving their valuable time to support the community.” 

The event was free for OABC members, as are all OABC events, which number between 30-40 per year.

On April 30th, the Oman American Business Council, in partnership with the National Hospitality Institute (NHI), hosted a dynamic business lunch at NHI’s Classroom Restaurant.

OABC members enjoyed an enriching Engage and Exchange experience, featuring delightful cuisine and engaging discussions. Attendees savored a culinary experience while connecting with peers and exploring networking opportunities.

Throughout the event, OABC members discovered exciting plans for the upcoming season and contributed fantastic event ideas, showcasing their enthusiasm and creativity. As always, our members’ input is invaluable, driving the success of our programs and events.

The atmosphere was vibrant as members connected, exchanged insights, and explored potential collaborations, underscoring the strength and innovation within our community. Be sure to check out the full video highlights!

The OABC’s Tourism Committee came together on April 29 for an inspiring brainstorming session. The OABC extends its heartfelt gratitude to Grand Hyatt Muscat Hotel for graciously hosting the meeting.

The session was marked by the exchange of brilliant ideas and enthusiastic discussions on enhancing tourism initiatives. From innovative strategies to collaborative partnerships, members contributed valuable insights aimed at advancing Oman’s tourism sector. Click here for more!