MUSCAT : As a part of its continued commitment to supporting national development and strengthening its partnership with the Government sector, Bank Muscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate of Oman, has launched “Al Ula Academy” in collaboration with the University of Oxford. The Academy aims to provide a platform for leadership development, knowledge exchange and exposure to global best practices.

The Academy commenced with its inaugural programme, “Leadership Excellence,” held over two days from 6^th to 7^th October, 2026. The programme brought together a distinguished group of government officials, reflecting Bank Muscat’s commitment to deepening its partnership with this vital sector and supporting institutional development in line with Oman Vision 2040.

The launch builds on the longstanding partnership between Bank Muscat and the Government sector, founded on the exchange of expertise and knowledge. Al Ula Academy provides a platform for collaboration and continuous learning, bringing together international expertise and local perspectives and providing participants with an opportunity to explore the latest global leadership practices and their relevance to the Sultanate.

The inaugural programme covered a range of key themes, including the foundations of effective leadership, leadership styles and models, and the role and challenges of leadership in today’s environment. It also addressed practical leadership frameworks, building high-performing teams, and communication strategies for effective execution.

Through real-life case studies and interactive learning, participants had the opportunity to translate leadership concepts into practical approaches that can be applied in the workplace. They explored how different leadership styles can be applied to different situations, while strengthening self-awareness and personal impact. The programme also covered influencing and persuasion skills and leading teams through change. These areas are particularly relevant in supporting effective leadership and institutional development in line with Oman Vision 2040.

Commenting on the occasion, Ahmed Faqir Al Bulushi, Deputy Chief Executive Officer – Banking at Bank Muscat, said: “The launch of Al Ula Academy reflects Bank Muscat’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the government sector and supporting national development. Our collaboration with the University of Oxford enables us to bring global expertise and contemporary leadership perspectives to Oman, while ensuring that the learning remains relevant to our national context and institutional priorities.”

He added: “Through Al Ula Academy, we aim to create a sustained platform for knowledge exchange, learning and collaboration. By bringing together global expertise, local perspectives and practical learning, we hope to support participants in their leadership roles and contribute to the continued development of institutions across the Sultanate.”

The launch of Al Ula Academy marks another step in Bank Muscat’s continued efforts to work closely with the government sector and support the development of national talent. Through the Academy, the Bank will continue to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, expertise and global best practices through programmes that respond to evolving leadership and organizational priorities.