OMAN Air has continued its support for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Sultanate by participating in the Oman SME Summit. The event was held at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel, Ritz Carlton recently and aimed to ‘reinvigorate the SME market in Oman'. As the official airlines partner of the Oman SME Summit, Oman Air enjoyed a high profile throughout the event. Furthermore Oman Air's Chief Executive Officer, Paul Gregorowitsch, played a dynamic role in the proceedings and took part in a panel discussion. The panel considered the rules and regulations, which apply to SMEs in Oman, SME's contribution to the National Economy and the importance of training prior to setting up an SME. Gregorowitsch commented: "It was an honor to have been asked to participate in the Oman SME Summit. And it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to share Oman Air's perspective and my business experience with potential owners of SMEs. "The Sultanate of Oman is actively pursuing a development plan which focuses on diversification, industrialisation and privatisation. And young Omanis are being encouraged to enter the workforce and contribute to Oman's GDP. SMEs are essential to the growth and sustainability of Oman's economy over the coming years. It was therefore very satisfying to have played a role in raising awareness of the vast potential that SMEs hold for Oman's future success. "A shining future awaits many of those potential SME owners who attended the Oman SME Summit. We look forward to seeing them achieve success and make a vital contribution to the life of this nation." Oman Air's participation in the Oman SME Summit continues its ongoing commitment to the development of small and medium-sized businesses in Oman. In addition to entering into commercial partnerships with a range of Omani SME's, the airline has also held seminars about the issue, provided facilities as well as direct and indirect support to individual businesses. In addition, Oman Air has partnered with the Al Raffad Fund to run a workshop, held in Muscat lately, which emphasised the importance of backing special needs students to develop their skills and gain employment. As part of the workshop, a presentation was given for the students. This outlined the significance of economic independence, and described the steps necessary to create one's own business. Oman Air's support for SMEs in Oman forms part of its comprehensive Corporate Social Responsibility program. The program also includes support for social and environmental causes, providing employment and career progression policies through its Omanization policy, and promoting affordable access to air travel for the people of Oman.
