bp Oman and Sharakah have signed an agreement renewing Khazzan for SME Development for a seventh edition, supporting 15 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Oman. 

Implemented by Sharakah, the 12-month programme will run from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, combining business assessments with tailored development plans and practical implementation support.

The agreement was signed by Najla Al Jamali, bp Oman president, and Rawan Al Nizwani, Head of the SME Department at Sharakah. The renewal continues their partnership to strengthen SME competitiveness, resilience and sustainable growth.

Two site visits

Each participating enterprise will receive two site visits, including initial and final assessments using Sharakah’s Business Performance Monitoring Tool (BPMT). The findings will inform a tailored improvement plan, followed by an updated development plan reflecting progress and remaining priorities.

Five scheduled follow-up meetings per enterprise will help business owners review implementation, address challenges and agree next steps. Each enterprise will also receive one individual coaching session focused on a priority identified during assessment or follow-up. Cohort learning sessions will cover cash flow management and marketing, including the development of a practical marketing plan.

Rawan Al Nizwani, Head of the SME Department at Sharakah, said: “Our partnership with bp Oman allows us to provide business owners with structured support as they work through their development priorities. Khazzan combines an assessment of each enterprise’s needs with practical plans and regular follow-up. Our focus is on helping participants put improvements into practice, manage cash flow more effectively and make informed decisions that support business resilience and growth.”

15 participating enterprises

Across the 15 participating enterprises, planned delivery includes 30 site visits, 30 initial and updated development plans, 75 follow-up meetings and 15 individual coaching sessions. Progress will be assessed by comparing initial and final BPMT results and reviewing action-plan completion. Changes in sales, employment and local purchasing will be recorded where supported by business records.

Individual final reports and a participant survey will capture progress and feedback, while photography and success-story documentation will highlight participating businesses and their development journeys.

By strengthening financial management, marketing and operational practices, the programme aims to help SMEs improve productivity and pursue sustainable growth. It also seeks to strengthen local suppliers and domestic business linkages, supporting local value creation, economic diversification and viable employment opportunities for Omanis.—TradeArabia News Service