OABC News

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!

The Oman American Business Council (OABC) celebrated its annual Ramadan Suhoor Gathering, sponsored by Odys Aviation at The Diplomatic Club on March 27th. The event welcomed OABC members from all sectors of Oman’s business community, and special guests from the public and private sector. The evening featured traditional cuisine, engaging conversations, and a vibrant atmosphere, in partnership with two organizations devoted to supporting people with disabilities in Oman.

James Dorris, Co-founder and CEO of Odys Aviation, a California-based advanced VTOL aircraft company, took a few moments to introduce Odys’ groundbreaking technology to support low-carbon regional flights.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to support a noble cause. Through a partnership with Azm and Adatee Hayatee, guests were able to explore and purchase high-quality arts and crafts created by talented trainees and artists with disabilities.

Rebecca Olson, CEO of the OABC, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thanks to tonight’s sponsor, Odys Aviation, we’ve had a wonderful evening of learning about the future of aviation, and also connecting with new faces in the business community. Our members were introduced to two incredible organizations that support talented and passionate people with disabilities in Oman. We’d like to thank each person who made it such a memorable evening for all.”

“My team and I were thrilled to be back in Muscat this week to discuss opportunities with organizations that share our vision at Odys of transforming an industry and creating new employment opportunities in Oman through innovation and technology,” says James Dorris, CEO of Odys Aviation. “We continue to be impressed by the forward-thinking mindset of the OABC and its members and together, we’re looking forward to creating real change and positioning Oman as a leader in the next generation of aviation.”

The OABC remains committed to providing opportunities for professionals to connect, collaborate, and thrive in Oman’s business landscape. As the year progresses, the organization looks forward to organizing more engaging events contributing to the growth and success of the business community in Oman and the utilization of the US-Oman FTA.

On March 4th, our members enjoyed an amazing Tex-Mex Monday! A big thank you to everyone who joined us for this lively evening of networking and tacos. A heartfelt thank you to DCM Leslie Ordeman for graciously hosting us, and to all our sponsors who helped make this event possible. Read more.

On March 3rd, The OABC hosted an insightful session on “Oman Logistics Update – The Red Sea: Navigating Stormy Waters” at the Sheraton Hotel Muscat. OABC events are always buzzing with energy and participation. Participants explored the challenges facing regional logistics (and a way through the crisis). Thank you to everyone who attended this session.
A very big thank you to our sponsor, RA Logistics, for their invaluable support in making our “Oman Logistics Update” event a success! Special gratitude to Colin McKinlay, the founder and managing partner of RA Logistics, for sharing insightful strategies to overcome challenges and seize emerging opportunities in the logistics sector. Read more.

On February 29, OABC and Ambassador Ana Escrogima were thrilled to host an event in honor of Omani alumni of U.S. universities. Alumni from schools across America joined us at the Ambassador’s residence, bringing a contagious energy and enthusiasm for the Global Connections and Education Partnership. Read more.