Muscat: In cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) launched a new service through its digital channels.

The new development will allow entities in the tourism industry to directly pay their fees to the Ministry’s account, easily and efficiently.

Commenting on the new service, Khalid Khalaf Al Awfi, Assistant General Manager for Financial & Administrative Affairs, at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism said: “The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism continuously seeks to facilitate and develop procedures for investors within the tourism and hotel establishments by digitising relevant processes, together with private sector institutions.

“Through our partnership with Oman Arab Bank, we will see the provision of a suitable technical solution that links the payment of tourism fees via the Bank’s digital platforms, which is also in line with national e-government strategy.”

Abdullah Salim Al Hajri, General Director of Financial & Administrative Affairs, said: “We are confident entities in the tourism industry will appreciate this new service, which enables timely fee payments, no delay and promotes ease and convenience.

“This will reflect positively on the sustainability of their businesses, especially in light of the current circumstances and the tremendous challenges facing the sector. The government, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, is working in cooperation with all concerned parties to overcome these obstacles and enable the advancement of the sector, sustainably,” he added.

From his side, Sulaiman Al Hinai, General Manager, Head of Treasury, Investments & Government Relations Division at OAB said: “Oman Arab Bank is committed to developing technology solutions that enhance customer experience, for both individual and corporate clients. Today, we celebrate the launch of this new service, in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

“The new facility will allow owners of tourism-based entities such as hotels, restaurants, etc., to pay their tourism fees through our digital platforms, including the OAB Online App, our online banking services and ATMs across all governorates in the Sultanate.

“They can simply visit the app, navigate to the icon for paying the fees and fill in the required information. Once completed, users will have to enter the amount of money due, which will then be transferred directly to the Ministry’s account.”

Oman Arab Bank is considered one of the most advanced local banks in terms of digital services. The Bank’s journey began several years ago, with huge investments in its digital infrastructure which is now capable of providing efficient services to all of the Bank’s customers.

Oman Arab Bank has a rich and proud history as one of the first financial institutions to be established in the Sultanate. Today, the bank operates a nationwide network of 55 branches and representative offices with 160 ATMs spread across Oman.

OAB provides a complete range of financial products and services for personal banking, corporate banking, and investment clients.