MUSCAT : National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), in collaboration with Al Jadeed Exchange, organized a special community event at Sheraton Oman Hotel, Muscat, to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, while promoting awareness of legal remittance channels and discouraging Hundi/Hawala.
H.E. Dr. Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Ambassador of Pakistan to the Sultanate of Oman, graced the occasion as Chief Guest, while Sheikh Syed Fayyaz Ali Shah, Founder & President of the Oman-Pakistan Friendship Association (OPFA), attended as Guest of Honour.
The event was attended by senior officials of the Embassy of Pakistan, prominent business and community leaders, representatives of OPFA, Pakistan Social Club Oman, Pakistan School System leadership, and other distinguished members of the Pakistani community. A large number of valued Pakistani remittance customers also participated.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rashid-ul-Islam, Business Lead – National Bank of Pakistan UAE, appreciated the unity and contribution of the Pakistani community in Oman and emphasized that overseas Pakistanis and their remittances remain a vital pillar of Pakistan’s economy.
The central message of the event was:
“Send your hard-earned money to Pakistan only through legal and regulated channels — Say NO to Hundi/Hawala.”
Ms. Aziza Abdullah Albalushi, senior official of Al Jadeed Exchange, extended warm greetings to the Pakistani community on behalf of Oman on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day.
In his address, H.E. Dr. Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari appreciated the Government of Oman for providing an inclusive environment where different communities can celebrate their national occasions and promote their culture and heritage. He also commended NBP and Al Jadeed Exchange for raising awareness about legal remittances and encouraged the community to spread this important message through workplaces, businesses, labour communities, and social platforms.
The event also highlighted the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the Sultanate of Oman and recognized the valuable contribution of the Pakistani community to Oman’s development.
Pakistani musical band MIZRAB added to the spirit of patriotism with performances of popular national songs. The event concluded with the presentation of mementos, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a group photo session.
The event was conducted by Ms. Azra Aleem, Director (Media & Public Relations), Pakistan Social Club Oman Interim Committee 2026, with the support of Mr. Maqbool Ahmed Sheikh.