Efficient and secure the cards are designed to reduce administrative costs and simplify the purchase-to-pay process while giving companies enhanced capabilities when managing their business transactions.

The SMART Commercial Card which can be used at any location in the sultanate also allows companies to easily monitor costs and set spending restrictions with certain suppliers of their choice. Limits can be set on a per transaction daily or monthly basis while cash advances and restrictions on authorisations can be fixed with utmost ease. Furthermore the OAB Visa SMART Commercial Cards utilise the Verified-by-Visa service for added online security and are equipped with EMV chip technology preventing unauthorised use.

Fahd Amjad general manager retail banking at Oman Arab Bank said 'The new OAB Visa SMART Commercial Cards are secure efficient and uncomplicated providing organisations with the perfect tool to streamline their purchasing and procurement practices. Companies can choose to restrict payments to any merchant they choose whether online or offline by implementing a variety of controls as well as having the ability to monitor the cardholder's activity.'

He added 'The introduction of this service is part and parcel of Oman Arab Bank's commitment to offer innovative products and solutions that empower customers to manage and enhance their finances.'

Ahmed Gaber Visa general manager for Oman Saudi Arabia Kuwait and Bahrain said 'We are delighted to partner with Oman Arab Bank in launching the OAB Visa SMART Commercial Card and bringing innovative digital payment services to cardholders in Oman. As a global payments technology company Visa is committed to leading the development of online payment options at a time when more and more consumers in Oman and other parts of the Middle East are switching to cards from cash.'