Muscat – AmCham Oman successfully hosted the latest edition of The SME Forum Powered by DHL, bringing together SME owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders for a practical masterclass focused on compliance, risk management, financial discipline, and sustainable business growth.

The session, titled “A Practical Masterclass for SMEs: Master Your Finances. Maximize Your Growth.”, delivered actionable guidance tailored specifically to the realities and challenges faced by SMEs operating in Oman.

Participants gained insights into strengthening compliance processes, managing financial risks, improving operational discipline, and using data-driven decision-making to support long-term business success.

Throughout the session, attendees were encouraged to take immediate action through five key recommendations:

• Audit current compliance status
• Fix contracts and incorporate relevant clauses (WHT, force Majure, limitation of liability etc.)
• Separate business and personal finances
• Implement a compliance calendar
• Invest in professional financial management

Rebecca Olson, CEO of AmCham Oman, emphasized the importance of supporting SMEs through practical education and community-driven initiatives.

“SMEs are a vital pillar of Oman’s economy, driving innovation, employment, and private-sector growth. Through The SME Forum, our goal is to provide practical, relevant, and accessible support that helps founders operate more confidently, sustainably, and competitively. We are committed to building platforms that equip businesses with real tools and knowledge they can immediately apply.”

The SME Forum is sponsored by DHL as part of an ongoing initiative to strengthen and support the SME ecosystem in Oman.

Mahmoud Shahin, DHL Express CFO, highlighted the importance of investing in educational initiatives for SMEs.

“SMEs play a critical role in economic development and business resilience. At DHL, we believe that supporting platforms like the SME Forum helps create stronger, more informed businesses that are better equipped to grow sustainably and navigate an increasingly complex operating environment. We are proud to support initiatives that deliver practical value to the business community.”

The session was delivered by Sachin Sharma from C&I, who stressed the importance of SMEs understanding their legal and compliance obligations from the early stages of growth.

“Many SMEs underestimate the importance of compliance and financial structure until challenges arise. Understanding the laws, obligations, and processes that businesses must follow is essential not only for reducing risk, but also for building credibility, attracting investment, and creating long-term stability. Strong compliance practices are a foundation for sustainable growth.”

Investor interest in SMEs remains strong. However, gaps in regulatory compliance and the absence of structured, reliable financial information are key barriers to investment. To attract capital and scale effectively, SMEs must adopt robust financial planning, ensure compliance with applicable regulations, and maintain transparent, well-organized financial records.

AmCham Oman, in collaboration with its members, is planning to conduct a series of interactive sessions aimed at equipping SMEs with the knowledge and tools required to become investment ready and accelerate sustainable growth.

AmCham Oman confirmed that additional SME-focused sessions are already planned as part of The SME Forum series, including upcoming workshops on LinkedIn mastery and AI tools for SMEs.

For more information about AmCham Oman and The SME Forum, visit www.amcham.om

Media Contact
Candice Troup
[email protected]