Recognizing the increasingly diverse financial
needs of expatriate communities in Oman, Sohar International has introduced an
integrated Expat Proposition that brings together solutions across four key
areas—spearheaded by Housing Finance, alongside everyday spending, financial
protection, and international money transfers. The offering combines
residential financing solutions, the Bank’s 3% Cashback Credit Card, exclusive
insurance solutions, and mobile-based global remittance services, providing
greater value, choice, and convenience through a connected banking
relationship.
Commenting on the proposition, Abdul Qadir Al
Sumali, Chief Retail and Wealth Management Officer at Sohar International, said:
“Our approach is to look beyond individual financial products and understand
the broader needs that shape our customers’ financial lives. For expatriate
customers, this includes managing everyday expenses, assuring themselves and
their families, and maintaining seamless financial connections with their home
countries. By bringing these needs together through an integrated proposition,
supported by our digital capabilities and strategic collaborations, we are
creating a more connected banking experience while enabling our customers to
derive greater value from their relationship with Sohar International.”
Recognizing the vital role of housing in fostering
a sense of stability, the package offers Expat Housing Loans, enabling
expatriate residents to finance the purchase of ready-to-move-in properties
within approved Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs) in Oman. Eligible customers
aged 21 and above, with a minimum monthly salary of OMR 1,500, can access
financing of up to 70% of the property value, with repayment tenors of up to 20
years. Financing is subject to a maximum age of 60 years at maturity and a
maximum debt burden ratio of 50%. This solution addresses a key living
essential for expatriates while supporting the Sultanate’s accelerating urban
development, in line with Oman Vision 2040 to establish the nation as an ideal
destination for living and investment, thereby driving economic growth.
The 3% Cashback Credit Card is designed to deliver
tangible value on everyday spending, offering 3% cashback on dining, fuel,
groceries and school-related expenses, with cashback credited automatically
each month. Customers can also benefit from six complimentary airport lounge
visits across 25 international hubs and flexible 0% interest payment plans for
up to 24 months, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
For Wealth Management
customers holding Visa Signature Credit Cards, the proposition delivers
unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide and an
elevated, end-to-end luxury travel experience subject to minimum spend, including exclusive Home Check-In with luggage
collection and boarding pass issuance from your doorstep, Fast Track
immigration clearance, Land & Leave arrival assistance, complimentary Valet
Parking, dedicated Porter Service, premium Limo and Chauffeur airport
transfers, and VIP Meet & Assist concierge services, ensuring truly
seamless, first-class travel from front door to final destination.
The proposition also provides access to
Comprehensive Insurance Solutions through Sohar International’s strategic
partnerships with Liva Insurance and Arabia Falcon Insurance, covering medical,
motor and life protection. Medical insurance from Liva offers exclusive
discounts on coverage of up to OMR 10,000 annually, with solutions tailored to
different expatriate segments. Motor insurance provides comprehensive coverage
with upfront premium savings and access to Liva rewards and partner lifestyle
outlets, while Life Protect from Arabia Falcon offers two months of zero
premium costs and manageable monthly payments.
For expatriate customers sending money
internationally, Global Remittances & Mobile Transfers, enables instant
transfers to more than 35 countries directly through Sohar International’s
digital banking channels. The fully digital and paperless service allows
customers to transfer funds conveniently through their smartphones, while
qualifying online local transfers can earn 10 loyalty points.
Through the Expat Proposition, Sohar International
is bringing complementary financial solutions together within a single
proposition while further advancing its digital banking strategy. By providing
customers with convenient alternatives to traditional physical remittance
channels and enabling them to manage more of their financial needs digitally,
the Bank continues to enhance accessibility, relevance and convenience across
the customer journey.