The spread of COVID-19 has disrupted lives, livelihoods, businesses and economies worldwide.

Banks, big and small companies in Oman are doing all they can to help the government contain the spread of coronavirus disease.

In just two days, citizens, companies and banks in Oman donated more than RO7mn to support the Ministry of Health in tackling COVID-19.
An official at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, Shaikh Ahmed bin Suwaidan al Balushi has waived off rents for shops in Muscat for three months from April till June.

Sheikh Salim bin Ahmed al Ghazali, chairman, Golden Group of Companies has extended two of his hotels in Muscat and Salalah as quarantine facilities.

Omani businessman Mohamed bin Rashid al Araimi has donated US$1mn (approx RO384,000) to support the efforts in containing the spread of coronavirus disease in the country.

Banks donate
As part of their corporate social responsibility initiative a couple of leading banks in the sultanate too have pledged monetary support.
 

Bank Muscat has announced RO1mn towards purchase of medical equipment and supplies for the Ministry of Health. Sohar International too has donated more than RO1mn.

Hamdan bin Ali al Hinai, chairman of Ahli Bank’s Board of Directors, said, “Ahli Bank has decided to contribute RO1mn to the sultanate’s efforts to combat the outbreak of coronavirus. 

Shareholders, members of the Board of Directors and all employees are committed to support the government’s resolve to combat this pandemic. We will continue to serve the community and fulfil the nation’s resolve to minimise the impact of coronavirus. We will overcome this phase and humbly ask God to protect Oman and its people from all harm.”

Other firms
Al Maha Petroleum Company has donated RO200,000 for the Endowment Fund to Support Health Services. While Oman Oil Marketing Company donated RO100,000 to support the Ministry of Health, National Life and General Insurance Company (NLGIC) gave RO175,000, OQ company RO2mn and Ominvest RO500,000.

Meanwhile, Wakan Tech Company has announced that all its drones are ready to help the competent authorities spray sterilisers at spaces required. The National Youth Commission has called on youth to volunteer and participate in the relief and shelter sector efforts through the link https://bit.ly/covied-19