Latest news with #OAB
Mid East Info
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Oman Arab Bank Wins Top Cybersecurity Honor Cybersecurity & Risk Excellence at MEA Finance Awards - Middle East Business News and Information
Muscat, Oman. 21 May 2025. Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has been awarded Best Cybersecurity and Risk Management Implementation in Oman by MEA Finance at the 2025 Banking Technology Awards. The award recognizes the Bank's outstanding achievements in securing its digital operations while meeting the highest standards of regulatory compliance and customer trust. At the core of this achievement, OAB ensures that its cybersecurity practices are not only robust but fully compliant with national governance frameworks. Through its risk-aware security architecture, the Bank dynamically monitors, assesses, and mitigates cyber risks in real time — demonstrating operational integrity across all channels. In recent years, OAB has implemented an advanced threat detection and response platform with extended detection and response (XDR) and security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR) capabilities. This has enhanced the Bank's ability to identify threats in real-time, analyze security events across multiple layers, and respond more effectively to incidents. Additionally, participation in a global vulnerability research initiative has further reinforced the Bank's defenses against advanced persistent threats and zero-day vulnerabilities. These technology investments have yielded measurable results, with the Bank achieving its lowest-ever Cyber Risk Exposure Management (CREM) percentage. This translates to fewer incidents, faster response times, and consistent success in cybersecurity audits. Beyond technology, Oman Arab Bank continues to foster a cyber-resilient culture through targeted staff training, phishing simulations, and executive-level cybersecurity drills, reinforcing the human layer of defense and building long-term organizational resilience. Mr Sulaiman Al Harthi, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Arab Bank, commented: 'Cybersecurity and risk resilience are no longer back-office functions — they are central to building customer trust and ensuring sustainable growth. This award is a reflection of our technology investment, and also a shared mindset across the Bank that prioritizes vigilance, accountability, and innovation.' The award enhances OAB's competitive edge, increases media visibility, and supports its mission to attract top talent in banking and cybersecurity. Internally, the recognition energizes teams and affirms the Bank's commitment to being a secure, forward-looking institution in Oman.
Mid East Info
08-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
OAB Celebrates Omani Achievements at Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Muscat, Oman – 8 May 2025: Oman Arab Bank (OAB) is pleased to be part of the Special Olympics World Winter Games – Turin 2025, supporting the participation of Special Olympics Oman in this global event that celebrates strength, determination, and excellence. This cooperation comes within the bank's steadfast commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and supporting members of the community. It aims to empower the Omani champions as they represent the Sultanate and achieve accomplishments on the international stage. This stems from the bank's belief that sports have the potential to enable individuals to overcome challenges, and it is proud to have been part of their inspiring journey. This year's Games saw six determined champions from Oman representing the Sultanate in snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and short track speed skating. Together, they brought home an impressive total of seven medals, including gold, silver, and bronze — a proud moment for the Sultanate of Oman and a testament to the spirit of perseverance. Commenting on OAB's support for the Special Olympics, Mr. Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, said: 'At Oman Arab Bank, we believe in the power of inclusion and the importance of creating spaces where every individual can thrive. Supporting the Special Olympics is not just about sport — it's about values. It's about determination, equality, and celebrating the human spirit. We are incredibly proud of our Omani athletes and honored to play a role in their journey.' Oman Arab Bank's support contributed to enabling the Omani team's participation in the Special Olympics World Winter Games by providing the necessary resources, reflecting the bank's ongoing commitment to supporting Special Olympics programs in the Sultanate of Oman. The Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 brought together thousands of athletes from across the globe in a shared vision of unity and possibility. Oman Arab Bank is proud to have stood behind Oman's champions, reinforcing its promise to support initiatives that make a lasting impact.
Mid East Info
07-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Oman Arab Bank and Dar Al Atta'a Partner to Share the Gift of Reading at Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Muscat: As part of a leading initiative aimed at instilling the love of reading in the hearts of children and enhancing community interaction, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has teamed up with Dar Al Atta'a, a leading charity organization in the Sultanate of Oman, for a special book donation campaign at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025. The fair, which was held from April 24 to May 3 at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center (OCEC), served as a hub for book lovers, authors, and cultural enthusiasts alike. This year, OAB introduced an exciting opportunity for visitors to make a meaningful impact. A dedicated book donation box was set up at the fair near Gate 3, opposite the OAB booth. The bank invited all visitors to bring along their gently used books and donate them to the initiative. These books were then to be distributed to children across Oman to provide them with the tools to embark on their own journeys of discovery and imagination. Commenting on the initiative, Mr Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, said, 'We believe that reading opens doors to endless possibilities. This initiative is a testament to our commitment towards the communities we serve. By partnering with Dar Al Atta'a, we have not only helped instill the joy of reading into the hearts of young readers, but we also gave back to the community in a meaningful way. Through this initiative we hoped to inspire a generation of young readers; those same who will shape the future of our country.' The collaboration between OAB and Dar Al Atta'a reflects the bank's ongoing efforts to make a positive social impact. The book donation initiative is just one of the ways OAB supports educational and social causes, alongside its broader role in the digital transformation of Oman's banking landscape. OAB's participation as Official Banking Partner of the book fair was also aligned with its commitment to enhancing the visitor experience through cashless transactions using the OAB SoftPOS system at every book stall. Visitors were able to conveniently tap-to-pay to make quick and secure purchases. The Muscat International Book Fair served as a platform to promote cultural exchange and learning. Oman Arab Bank's involvement this year was a step towards fostering a society that values education, and knowledgeable empowerment.
Associated Press
29-04-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Sumitomo Pharma America Presents New Data on Vibegron at the 2025 American Urological Association Annual Meeting
– Data include results from COURAGE Phase 3 and COMPOSUR Phase 4 studies of vibegron (GEMTESA®) – MARLBOROUGH, Mass., April 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. (SMPA) presented new, positive data from the COURAGE Phase 3 open-label extension study of vibegron (GEMTESA®) in men living with overactive bladder (OAB) and receiving pharmacological therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Data presented from the Phase 3 COURAGE trial (URO-901-3006) included a total of 276 men with OAB symptoms receiving pharmacological therapy for BPH who participated in the open-label extension study. The primary outcome was to evaluate the long-term safety of vibegron 75 mg, which was well tolerated for up to 52 weeks in men with symptoms of OAB who were receiving pharmacological treatment for BPH. The data reveal that the efficacy results of treatment with vibegron 75 mg a day were sustained among those receiving vibegron for 52 weeks and improved after 28 weeks of vibegron treatment for those who received placebo during the first 12 weeks of a double-blind placebo-controlled study (URO-901-3005). Sustained efficacy results in all secondary outcomes were observed, including mean daily micturitions, urgency episodes, nocturia episodes, urge urinary incontinence episodes, IPSS-Storage and volume voided per micturition. Vibegron demonstrated favorable long-term safety and efficacy, with no new safety signals compared to prior OAB studies. At the conference SMPA also shared findings from the Phase 4 COMPOSUR, real-world study of vibegron in patients with OAB, which continue to support that it was generally safe and well-tolerated, with the majority of patients satisfied with treatment and remaining on vibegron after 12 months. Most common adverse events were urinary tract infection (4.0%), headache (2.7%), dizziness (2.2%) and diarrhea (2.0%). 'SMPA remains committed to advancing scientific innovation that helps the lives of the millions of patients suffering from OAB and receiving pharmacological therapy for BPH,' said Tsutomu Nakagawa, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of SMPA. 'These data continue to reaffirm vibegron's safety and tolerability.' Vibegron is approved for OAB with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency and urinary frequency in adults, and in December 2024, became the first and only beta-3 agonist approved for the treatment of men with OAB symptoms who are receiving pharmacological therapy for BPH. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION CONTRAINDICATIONS GEMTESA is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to vibegron or any components of GEMTESA. Hypersensitivity reactions, such as angioedema, have occurred. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Urinary Retention Urinary retention has been reported in patients taking GEMTESA. The risk of urinary retention may be increased in patients with bladder outlet obstruction and also in patients taking muscarinic antagonist medications for the treatment of OAB. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of urinary retention, particularly in patients with bladder outlet obstruction or patients taking muscarinic antagonist medications for the treatment of OAB. Discontinue GEMTESA in patients who develop urinary retention. Angioedema Angioedema of the face and/or larynx has been reported with GEMTESA. Angioedema has been reported to occur hours after the first dose or after multiple doses. Angioedema, associated with upper airway swelling, may be life-threatening. If involvement of the tongue, hypopharynx, or larynx occurs, immediately discontinue GEMTESA and provide appropriate therapy and/or measures necessary to ensure a patent airway. ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reactions (≥2%) reported with GEMTESA were headache, urinary tract infection, nasopharyngitis, diarrhea, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infection. INDICATIONS AND USAGE GEMTESA® is a beta-3 adrenergic agonist indicated for the treatment of: Please click here for full Prescribing Information. About GEMTESA® (vibegron) In the U.S., GEMTESA (vibegron) has been indicated for the treatment of OAB with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency in adults since April 2021. GEMTESA was approved on December 18, 2024, for overactive bladder (OAB) with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency, and urinary frequency in adult males on pharmacological therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). GEMTESA works by selectively targeting β3 adrenergic receptors to reduce OAB symptoms through the relaxation of the bladder detrusor muscle to increase capacity. About Overactive Bladder Overactive bladder (OAB) is a clinical condition that occurs when the bladder muscle contracts involuntarily. Symptoms may include urinary urgency (the sudden urge to urinate that is difficult to control), urgency incontinence (unintentional loss of urine immediately after an urgent need to urinate), and frequent urination (usually eight or more times in 24 hours).7 Approximately 33 million U.S. adults experience the bothersome symptoms of OAB.1 About Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in men in which the prostate gland is enlarged. Many men who are treated for symptoms are assumed to have an obstruction in the bladder caused by an enlarged prostate.4, 5 Even when the obstruction is alleviated by BPH treatment, unresolved symptoms of OAB may persist. About 60% of men with BPH are treated for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).4, 5 LUTS can be divided into storage, voiding, and postmicturition symptoms.8 More than half of men with LUTS report storage symptoms, and about a quarter report voiding symptoms.5 This suggests that many men with a diagnosis of BPH may have overactive bladder.5 About Sumitomo Pharma Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., is a global pharmaceutical company based in Japan with key operations in the U.S. (Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc.), Canada (Sumitomo Pharma Canada, Inc.), and Europe (Sumitomo Pharma Switzerland GmbH) focused on addressing patient needs in oncology, urology, women's health, rare diseases, psychiatry & neurology, and cell & gene therapies. With several marketed products in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, a diverse pipeline of early- to late-stage assets, we aim to accelerate discovery, research, and development to bring novel therapies to patients sooner. For more information on SMPA, visit our website or follow us on LinkedIn. The Sumitomo corporate symbol mark is a trademark of Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., used under license. SUMITOMO PHARMA is a trademark of Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., used under license. SUMITOMO is a registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., used under license. Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. is a U.S. subsidiary of Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd. GEMTESA, and the GEMTESA logo are trademarks of Urovant Sciences GmbH, registered in the U.S. and in other countries. ©2025 Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc. All rights reserved. References View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Sumitomo Pharma America
Mid East Info
28-04-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Oman Arab Bank Powers a Cashless Experience at Muscat International Book Fair 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Muscat. 28 April 2025. Oman Arab Bank (OAB) is proud to announce its role as the Official Banking Sponsor of the Muscat International Book Fair 2025, taking place from April 24 to May 3 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center (OCEC). One of the most anticipated cultural events in the Sultanate, the book fair attracts thousands of visitors annually, celebrating literature, learning, and creativity. This year's edition was inaugurated under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Fahad bin Al-Jalanda Al Said, President of Sultan Qaboos University, with H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and Member of the UAE Supreme Council, attending as the esteemed Chief Guest. As part of its sponsorship, OAB is enabling a fully cashless shopping experience at the fair through the deployment of its innovative SoftPOS payment solution. All book stalls will be equipped with OAB's tap-to-pay technology, offering visitors a seamless and secure way to complete their purchases using cards or smart devices. Commenting on the bank's active role in the book fair, Mr Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, stated, 'Our involvement with the Muscat International Book Fair reflects our continued commitment to supporting cultural initiatives while showcasing practical, customer-focused innovations. Through SoftPOS, we're creating a modern and convenient payment experience that matches the forward-thinking spirit of the event. We're not only proud to sponsor the fair but to actively enhance how people interact with it.' In addition to powering payments, OAB will be hosting an interactive booth at the venue, where visitors can explore the bank's innovative products and services. Key highlights include Idikhar, the intuitive monthly saving plan. Idikhar is a smart and flexible savings solution offering attractive returns of up to 4.5% p.a., designed to help customers achieve their long-term financial goals. Additionally, the bank will showcase the Youth Accounts; accounts tailor made for the younger generation to promote financial literacy and independence from an early age. The booth will also feature family-friendly activities, exclusive giveaways, and on-the-spot offers for new customers. OAB's sponsorship of the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 is part of its broader strategy to promote digital transformation and community engagement across Oman. By blending culture with convenience, the bank aims to highlight how technology can support and enhance meaningful experiences. Oman Arab Bank invites everyone to visit the fair, go cashless with OAB SoftPOS, and explore how the bank continues to innovate in service of its customers and community.
