1 February 2026 - 05:49
Oman’s Islamic Banking Sector to Expand in 2026, Driven by Islamic Bonds

Oman’s Islamic finance industry is projected to record double-digit growth in 2026, reaching nearly $45 billion, supported by Islamic bonds, regulatory reforms, and strong public demand.

AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA): Fitch Ratings has forecast that Oman’s Islamic finance industry will achieve double-digit growth in 2026, underpinned by the expanding role of Islamic bonds as key financing and policy instruments, alongside government initiatives and robust public demand for Shariah-compliant products.

The size of Oman’s Islamic finance sector was estimated at around $36 billion at the end of 2025 and is expected to increase to nearly $45 billion in 2026. Approximately two-thirds of the total is attributed to Islamic banking assets, while close to 32 percent consists of outstanding Islamic bonds.

The Central Bank of Oman has recently approved a new regulatory framework for Shariah-compliant finance and leasing companies. According to Fitch, the move is likely to enhance transparency, strengthen supervisory oversight, and support capital inflows. The share of Islamic banks and Islamic windows of conventional banks in total banking assets also rose to around 20 percent by the end of November 2025.

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