To: All Licensed Banks Operating in the Sultanate of Oman

Subject: Banking Hours

After Compliments,

1. In response to representations made by several banks, the Central Bank of Oman is pleased to announce, through the issuance of this circular, a further relaxation of the restrictions placed on banks’ Dealing Room activity.

2. Accordingly, with effect from the date of this Circular, banks may, if they so wish, operate their Dealing Rooms on a 24 hour basis throughout the working week and also during International Working Days (Thursdays, Fridays and Oman holidays which fall on International Working days).

3. In this connection, the attention of all banks is drawn to Oman Regulation No. BM/REG/33/11/1989 dated December 3, 1989 whereby banks were prohibited from carrying out non-trade related forex transactions of a speculative nature. Banks should note that this prohibition continues to be in full force and effect.