Sohar International Bank and Ahli Bank Postpone Merger Talks

Deal News | Jun 23, 2025 | Zawya

Sohar International Bank and Ahli Bank SAOG decided to delay their proposed merger due to pending regulatory approvals, as shared in a filing with the Muscat Stock Exchange. This merger, announced in April, aimed at creating Oman's largest bank with collective assets approximating $30 billion. In light of the postponement, Ahli Bank intends to proceed with a capital increase via a rights issue worth 50 million Omani rials ($130 million). This move underscores a larger trend within the GCC banking sector, where institutions are increasingly considering consolidation to boost competitiveness and resilience. Notably, Sohar International Bank recently completed a takeover of HSBC Bank Oman in August 2023.

Sectors

Banking
Financial Services

Geography

Oman – The primary focus is on the activities of Omani banks, particularly Sohar International Bank and Ahli Bank.
GCC – The article references broader consolidation trends within the Gulf Cooperation Council's regional banking industry.

Industry

Banking – The article revolves around the activities and strategic movements of two major banks in Oman, highlighting trends in the regional banking sector.
Financial Services – Amidst conversations on mergers and capital raises, the content aligns with financial sector strategies focused on consolidation and growth.

Financials

$130 million – The amount associated with Ahli Bank's rights issue to increase capital.
50 million Omani rials – Another representation of the capital raise amount by Ahli Bank.
$30 billion – The combined asset value expected from the merger of Sohar International Bank and Ahli Bank.

Participants

Name	Role	Type	Description
Sohar International Bank	Bidding Company	Company	A major bank in Oman involved in the proposed merger and recent acquisition of HSBC Bank Oman.
Ahli Bank SAOG	Target Company	Company	An Omani bank looking towards a merger with Sohar International, focusing on strategic growth and capital objectives.
Muscat Stock Exchange	Other Company	Company	The stock exchange where Ahli Bank filed its decision to postpone the merger and proceed with a capital increase.