Central Bank of Oman (CBO)
Can I launch a digital bank in Oman?
Content reviewed 2026-08-31 · How we check sources
Short answer
Yes, but a digital bank must be licensed by the Central Bank of Oman. The CBO has a dedicated Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks, read together with the Banking Law and other applicable CBO rules.
What this means
Calling a product a 'digital bank' does not create a lighter substitute for banking authorisation. If the business performs banking activities such as taking deposits or otherwise carrying on regulated banking business, it falls within the CBO banking perimeter.
The digital-bank framework provides the licensing structure for banks whose services are delivered primarily through digital or modern electronic means. Applicants are assessed as regulated financial institutions, not merely as technology companies.
A fintech that wants a bank-like interface without becoming a bank can instead explore structures built on licensed banks or PSPs, but the branding, contractual model and actual financial activities must not imply that the fintech itself is carrying on banking business without authorisation.
Official sources
CBO — Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks in Oman ↗CBO — Banking Law ↗CBO — Licensing of Financial Institutions ↗Some source links need review. The content-review date above is separate from link availability.
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Regulatory research, not legal advice. This answer has the scope and review date shown above; your institution decides applicability.