OABC News

The Oman American Business Council (OABC), in collaboration with its member, Ascend Consulting, successfully hosted a morning workshop on “Redefining HR Leadership: The Power of EQ & Coaching for HR Professionals” on Tuesday, February 20, at Crowne Plaza Qurum.

This workshop had a fantastic turnout of OABC members who immersed themselves in engaging discussions and gained invaluable insights into the importance of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and coaching. Attendees delved into understanding EI and its five domains, assessed their own EI levels, and explored the link between EI and business success. Additionally, participants honed their coaching skills for effective managerial practices and learned practical applications of coaching in the workplace through a live demonstration.

A big thank you to Coach Farzeen from Ascend Consulting for the exceptional presentation, guiding us through the complexities of modern HR management.

Harshal Dutia is heading up three new programs at the OABC to support further the use of the U.S. Oman FTA, and the commercial relationship between the U.S. and Oman on a more practical level. He shares more of the vision behind our services in the below article.

Tell us more about you, Harshal

Hi! I’m Harshal Dutia. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of serving in diverse capacities across governmental non-profit organizations, private for-profit sectors, and international trade promotion. I’ve delved into pivotal roles encompassing trade development, investment promotion, finance, and cyber forensics.

Before my current role with the Oman American Business Council (OABC), I honed my skills as a Marketing Manager at the Korean Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), stationed at their Muscat office for over seven years. This role was instrumental in fostering trade relations between Oman and South Korea, driven by a state-funded initiative. This included liaising with government and private sector clients in Oman, facilitating deals, and overseeing the introduction of various products and technologies into the Omani market. I organized demonstrations, site visits, and ministerial delegations to and from Korea, showcasing the potential for collaboration in sectors such as oil & gas, defense, consumable goods, and cosmetics. Additionally, I utilized digital marketing strategies, market analysis, and research to identify emerging trends and facilitate Korean companies’ entry into the Omani market.

After which, I held the mantle of Business Development Manager, overseeing the Middle East and South Asia regions for a first-of-its-kind cyber fusion SaaS platform. I worked on finding government and private sector clients in these regions to promote and sell the platform to.

Academically, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Accounting and Finance from the University of Bradford in 2012. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to continuous learning, acquiring certifications in finance, management accounting, and cybersecurity.

My passion lies in international trade, where I find fulfillment in facilitating businesses to thrive in new markets. This commitment extends beyond mere commerce; it’s about contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both Oman and the United States.

Through my endeavors, I aspire to bridge gaps, foster collaborations, and drive sustainable growth. Each role I’ve undertaken has equipped me with a unique perspective and a diverse skill set, enabling me to make meaningful contributions to both the Omani and American business landscapes.

If there’s anything else you’d like to know or explore further, I am happy to connect.

Can you share more about OABC’s trade services and programs?

We at the Oman American Business Council (OABC) are excited to announce three programs designed to bolster trade between Oman and the United States. These programs cater to Omani and American companies seeking guidance and support as they explore business opportunities in each other’s markets.

1. U.S. Export Compass: This annual program assists Omani companies in entering the U.S. market. OABC professionals’ partner with each company, providing comprehensive export preparation, tailoring proposals and sales pitches for the U.S. market, and identifying genuine buyers. 
2. Gateway Oman: This monthly program caters to American companies seeking to export to Oman. We provide market research, statistics, and buyer introductions tailored to diverse industries. 
3. U.S. Import Compass: This monthly program caters to Omani companies seeking American products and aims to connect them with manufacturers, service providers, and traders throughout the U.S. It operates on a month-long basis.

In addition to the aforementioned programs, we also develop custom programs to meet the specific requirements of Omani and American businesses. These customized solutions may include designing and hosting delegations and roadshows, providing support in creating marketing materials tailored for the respective markets, and addressing any other specific needs related to trade and business development.

What is the overall vision for the program?

The vision we aim to achieve through these programs is multifaceted:

1. Facilitating Trade: We strive to facilitate smoother trade relations between Oman and the United States by providing comprehensive support and guidance to businesses from both countries. By offering tailored programs for exporting and importing companies, we aim to streamline the process of doing business across borders. Additionally, we aim to leverage the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Oman and the US to further enhance trade opportunities and remove barriers to commerce.
2. Promoting Economic Growth: Our programs are designed to contribute to the economic growth of both Oman and the United States. By helping Omani companies expand their market reach into the U.S. and assisting American companies in accessing the Omani market, we aim to foster increased trade volumes and business opportunities, ultimately leading to economic prosperity for both nations. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) and the Ministry of Finance, Sultanate of Oman in 2023 further underscores our commitment to bolstering economic growth through trade cooperation.
3. Building Stronger Business Relationships: Through initiatives like delegations, roadshows, one: one meetings, and networking opportunities, we seek to facilitate the establishment of strong and enduring business relationships between companies in Oman and the United States. These relationships can lead to long-term partnerships, collaborations, and mutually beneficial ventures, bolstered by the incentives provided by the FTA and the recent MoU between EXIM and Oman.
4. Enhancing International Cooperation: By promoting trade and business development between Oman and the United States, we aim to strengthen the ties between the two countries on an international level. Increased collaboration in the economic sphere can also pave the way for cooperation in other areas such as technology transfer, education, and cultural exchange. 

Overall, our vision is to create a dynamic and thriving ecosystem that fosters sustainable economic growth, mutual prosperity, and deepens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Oman and the United States, leveraging the opportunities and incentives provided by the governments of both countries.

What do you think are the untapped areas of growth for the US Oman FTA?

While the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has demonstrably bolstered Oman-US trade, I firmly believe significant untapped potential remains. My focus would be on strategically leveraging these areas for further growth and development.

1. Prioritizing Investment Facilitation: Strengthening investment protection and promotion is crucial. By enhancing investor confidence, streamlining procedures, and clarifying regulations, we can unlock greater cross-border investment flows, fostering robust economic activity.
2. Empowering SMEs: Equipping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the tools they need to thrive in international trade is critical. Targeted capacity-building initiatives, access to financing via initiatives such as EXIM bank MoU with Oman Ministry of Finance and initiatives by organizations such as Riyada in Oman, and support with market entry strategies through initiative like our programs, we will empower these economic engines.
3. Embracing E-commerce: Integrating e-commerce provisions within the FTA is essential to capture the burgeoning digital trade landscape. Facilitating cross-border transactions, protecting consumer rights, and removing regulatory barriers will unlock a whole new avenue for collaboration. The U.S. has a streamlined and well-established e-commerce infrastructure in which Oman can be integrated in to with initiatives from logistics and digital payment partners.
4. Integrating Sustainable Development: Embedding sustainable development and environmental protection within the FTA framework ensures equitable trade benefits. Promoting environmental standards, social responsibility, and inclusive growth creates a win-win for both nations and their citizens. This also falls in line with the 2050 Net Zero Carbon initiative by His Majesty Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq Al Said and the U.S. committing to cut total greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% by 2030. Both part of the Paris Agreement,
5. Forging Supply Chain Resilience: Collaborative efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience and diversification will mitigate risks associated with disruptions. Promoting regional integration, bolstering logistics infrastructure, and implementing trade facilitation measures are key areas for collaboration. The first step towards trade development is the initial business between two nations. To make it sustainable over a long period, every aspect of the supply chain needs to be fine tuned and it is an ever-evolving process. The nuances of these developments need to be accommodated in the FTA.

By focusing on these untapped areas, we can transform the FTA into a dynamic platform for even stronger Oman-US trade relations, fostering shared prosperity and a sustainable future.

Over 150 OABC Members had a fantastic time at our recent event, “New Year, New Connections,” sponsored by Yahya Nasib Global (Dolphin Village). It was an evening filled with networking opportunities for OABC members.
Special thanks to our generous raffle sponsors: Dolphin Village Club, Dolphin Village Spa, Little Gym, and St. Regis! Your contributions made our event even more exciting.

We loved seeing our members connect and forge new relationships. Here’s to building stronger connections and making 2024 a year of growth and collaboration! Check out the full video.

During the Oman AI Summit 2024, key figures including HE Dr. Ali Al Shidhani, Undersecretary of MTCIT, H.E. Munther Al Busaidi, VP of Oman Vision 2040, Mr. Talal Al Saadi: Director’s Office, Ministry of the Interior, and AI Expert Dr. Joerg Bienert, joined a panel conversation moderated by OABC CEO Rebecca Olson. The panel discussed Oman’s AI integration and its significance for Oman Vision 2040. The summit focused on the role of AI in economic sectors, talent development, and governance, with am emphasis on the importance of AI regulation for data privacy and achieving the nation’s goals. For more details, visit here.

OABC Premium Members experienced an unforgettable night at the Hockey5s World Cup Oman 2024. From the exclusive fieldside box at the brand new hockey arena in Amerat, OABC CEO Rebecca Olson greeted guests and together with our members offered warm welcome to the new U.S. Ambassador, Ana Escrogima. Hanan Al Harassi, Board Member at the Oman Hockey Association, shared her passion for women’s sports and the potential for corporates to sponsor the new Oman Women’s Field Hockey Team.

American and Omani foods, a New York food corner paying homage to the new Ambassador’s hometown, and other delicious refreshments were provided by COMO, long-time OABC Corporate member. Throughout the evening, members enjoyed a thrilling USA vs. India women’s hockey match, soaking up the excitement.

Beyond the game, our members connected and networked, fostering valuable relationships. A night of prestige, sportsmanship, and connections! A big thank you to COMO for sponsoring the delectable food, adding flavor to our evening! Also, our gratitude to the Oman Hockey Association for providing us with a fantastic venue for this memorable event. See more on OABC’s Instagram.

What a compelling session it was at the Oman Tax Update event! With an impressive crowd actively engaged, it was an enlightening experience for all. Our sincere gratitude to Crowe Oman for their invaluable support, contributing to the success of this knowledge-sharing experience. Follow us to see more.

On January 16, OABC Members enjoyed a fantastic Networking Lunch at Europcar with a special focus on Corporate Wellbeing. A heartfelt thank you Europcar for making this event happen, and contributing to a healthier, more connected work environment in their new office, designed with employee wellbeing in mind. Nitin, as GM and event host, your passion shone through the presentation, and we can see why employee retention is record high for your team! Thanks for sharing strategies and a meal with fellow members. Read more.

Gathered on a Thursday afternoon, nearly 80 passionate OABC members joined forces for a beach cleanup, a heartwarming initiative generously sponsored by Europcar. Members representing diverse professions and backgrounds united to clear litter, debris, and plastics from the coastline, showcasing the power of collective action for a cleaner, greener future. It was a heartwarming display of community engagement, emphasizing the OABC’s commitment to positive change and sustainability. The successful event underscored the significance of preserving our natural environment while celebrating the impact of unity in fostering environmental consciousness. Click here to read more.

OABC members enjoyed an exclusive afternoon networking event aimed at reuniting members and refining their professional image on LinkedIn through top-notch profile pictures, generously provided by OABC’s SME member, Booma. Before their headshots, ladies were pampered with hair touch-ups by Maliheh, also an SME member of OABC. Throughout the event, members mingled, exchanged business cards, and enjoyed healthy food from Premium Member KAIA, at the Shatti beachfront. The event’s raffle sponsors, dusitD2 and Me-So Hungry, surprised attendees with additional treats, adding to the excitement of the event.

The U.S. and Oman have enjoyed a strong and stable relationship that dates back more than 200 years and continue to collaborate closely on regional security and stability, as well as economic prosperity and trade. In 2009, the two countries signed a Free Trade Agreement which removed most customs duties, allowed citizens to set up businesses without a local sponsor, and gave businesses and investors the right to 100% ownership of companies in Oman.

This landmark agreement has been hugely beneficial to both countries, with the US now Oman’s biggest non-oil export destination, registering $2.73 billion in 2022. The US was also the second-largest foreign direct investor in Oman in the third quarter of 2022 with a total of $6.5 billion coming into the Middle Eastern country.

Due to the strength of the relationship between the two countries, the Oman American Business Council (OABC) was founded in 2003 to foster the development of commercial activity between the U.S. and Oman. Supporting the business community in the Sultanate, OABC delivers programs and events that are focused on professional development, thought leadership and high-level networking.

Hosting 30 events annually, OABC is Oman’s most active business networking group, with each conference, seminar and networking event providing members access and opportunities to meet other decision-makers across a variety of sectors in Oman.

Tasked with overseeing the execution of OABC’s mission is CEO Rebecca Olson. Having previously served as the Executive Director or five years, she is now looking to implement new initiatives to improve trade, develop bilateral relations and establish a stronger presence promoting Oman trade and investment in the U.S.

One of the ways that Olson is achieving this mandate is through networking events that bring together important members of the Oman business community and connect them with US counterparts.

Earlier this year the OABC welcomed U.S. Embassy Charge d’Affaires Leslie Ordeman to one such event which was hosted in partner- ship with Better Medical Solutions, an American company in Oman which has utilized the Free Trade Deal to import high-quality medical devices from the US.

Speaking at the event, Ordeman said: “The U.S.-Oman economic partnership has never been stronger, with trade last year soaring to a record high of $4.2 billion in 2022, a 30% increase from the prior year. “I’m proud the Embassy can support OABC’s efforts to build the relationships between U.S. and Omani companies that serve as the bedrock of that partnership.”

The importance of education

With many U.S. citizens bringing their families to the Sultanate, the need to create an American educational system in Oman was first recognized by Ambassador Frances Cook who in 1997 was gifted land by Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said in order to build a school. The following year The American International School of Muscat (TAISM) opened its doors, and it continues to deliver a high-quality curriculum to more than 500 students.

“The vision of Ambassador Frances Cook — the first female ambassador to serve in any Gulf Cooperation Council country — was not only to set up a school for Americans but for anyone desiring an American-based education,” reveals Kevin Schafer, Director, TAISM.

“There is a caveat that Omani children wishing to attend must obtain special permission from the Ministry of Education, which has historically been around 10-15% of our student population. The school is incorporated as a private institution in Oman that leases the land from the American Embassy. Four of the seven people on the school board are appointees of the US ambassador, and the director of the school must be an American. It has a unique U.S. connection and will always be American in character.”

Focuses on providing quality education to students and supporting their intellectual and personal growth while following the American curriculum, TAISM currently has 85 students whose family members work at the US Embassy in Oman. The school has also witnessed an increase in the number of students whose parents work for U.S. companies in the Middle Eastern nation and even some who have retired in the Sultanate.

“Some students whose parents have independent businesses and moved here are enrolled, while some retirees have children who attend our school. They are in Oman through the integrated tourist complex that allows investment in local properties and grants residence permits,” adds Schafer.

“We also have parents whose children attend school here, but one parent works outside the country. It is a different world now. When American companies come to Oman, they often have employees from various countries working for them who are foreigners. These employees are often mobile and often want to keep their children in the American education system. We strive to ensure that our students are not held back in their education due to relocation. Oman offers a beautiful place to live and raise a family, with a good education system.”