Sohar International has received two recognitions from Visa, winning the Fastest-Growing Debit Card Issuer in Oman award and the Payment Volume Leadership award for the second consecutive year, reflecting the bank’s continued growth in the digital payments sector.
The awards highlight Sohar International’s performance in expanding debit card usage and increasing payment volumes across its Visa card portfolio through data-driven strategies, ecosystem partnerships and customer-focused payment solutions.
The achievement reflects a structured payments strategy aimed at embedding digital payment solutions into customers’ daily financial activities and driving long-term behavioural change in card usage.
The Payment Volume Leadership award recognized Sohar International’s growth in total spending across Visa cards, supported by higher customer activity, wider merchant acceptance and greater adoption of digital payment solutions.
The bank’s recognition as the fastest-growing Visa card issuer for the second consecutive year also reflects its expansion in customer acquisition and increased use of debit cards for everyday transactions.
Abdul Qadir Al Sumali Chief Retail & Premier Banking Officer – Sohar International
“This recognition reflects the strength of a disciplined execution model that is anchored in how customers behave, not simply what they are offered. Our approach has been to move beyond traditional product-led growth and instead design a payments ecosystem that is embedded within the rhythm of everyday life.. A data driven and consumer behavior led approach has enabled us to generate consistent growth in engagement, expand relevance across customer segments, and translate strategy into measurable outcomes.”
Nasser Bdeir, General Manager & Country Manager, Visa in Oman, commented that, “This recognition reflects Sohar International’s strong performance and its ability to deliver accelerated growth across the payments ecosystem, supported by a clear strategic vision and continued investment in digital infrastructure and customer experience. At Visa, we value this partnership and look forward to further collaboration in delivering innovative payment solutions that support the growth of Oman’s banking sector.”
Sohar International said in its statement that it continues to strengthen its position in innovation and digital banking services, while supporting financial inclusion and the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 through its partnership with Visa.
