Oman’s Sohar International has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding with Snoonu, the Omani arm of the Qatari super app. The partnership aims to build an integrated financial and digital ecosystem to support merchants, delivery drivers, and customers on the platform, reinforcing the country’s growing digital economy.
Quick Facts
- Sohar International partners with Snoonu Oman.
- Deal to create integrated digital-financial ecosystem.
- Aims to support merchants, drivers, and operations.
Banking Meets On-Demand Delivery
Under the agreement, Sohar International will extend its comprehensive suite of banking and financing solutions to Snoonu’s network. This includes customized financial products to support Snoonu’s operational growth, facilitate business development for its merchant partners, and enable the expansion of its delivery fleet through asset financing programs.
The MoU was signed by Abdul Qader Al Somali, Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management Group at Sohar International, and Said Al Maskari, General Manager of Snoonu Oman.
“This partnership combines financial expertise with digital innovation to create practical solutions that support companies, entrepreneurs, and individuals,” stated Abdul Qader Al Somali. “In addition to facilitating access to banking and financing services, we affirm our commitment to enhancing economic participation, accelerating digital transformation, and contributing to the long-term goals of Oman Vision 2040.”
Said Al Maskari added, “Snoonu’s growth is driven by innovation and a commitment to delivering sustainable positive value to our customers, merchants, and drivers. Our partnership with Sohar International allows us to maximize the support available through our integrated system and provide new opportunities that help businesses advance.”
Powering Oman’s SME and Gig Economy
The collaboration is positioned to directly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that use the Snoonu platform for delivery and logistics. By providing tailored financial tools, the partnership seeks to empower these businesses and support the gig economy workers who make up Snoonu’s delivery fleet.
Snoonu, which offers services ranging from food and grocery delivery to pharmaceuticals and corporate logistics, is described as the first super app of its kind to launch in Oman. The deal with Sohar International is expected to streamline financial operations for all stakeholders within its ecosystem.
Snoonu’s Tech-Driven Ambitions
Snoonu stands out as one of the fastest-growing digital platforms in the region, operating on a technology infrastructure built entirely on artificial intelligence. The company has a long-term goal of achieving 100% robotic delivery by 2035 using proprietary ground robots and drones.
The company is also known for its “No Drivers Under the Sun” social responsibility initiative, which aims to protect its delivery workforce. This combination of technological ambition and social commitment has made it a notable player in the regional digital transformation landscape.
About Snoonu
Snoonu is a Qatar-based super app that provides a comprehensive delivery and logistics platform for a wide range of products and services, including food, groceries, pharmacies, and B2B/B2C courier services. Known for its AI-driven technology, it is one of the fastest-growing digital platforms in the region.
About Sohar International
Sohar International is one of the fastest-growing banks in the Sultanate of Oman. It provides innovative solutions in commercial and investment banking, wealth management, and Islamic banking through its “Sohar Islamic” window. The bank is focused on digital innovation and strategic regional expansion, including a presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Source: Zawya
