The CEO Middle East magazine awarded Kuwait Finance House - Chief Executive Officer - Mr. Mohammad Sulaiman Al Omar the best CEO award in the banking sector for the year 2009 in appreciation of his efforts and outstanding contributions to Islamic finance industry. Mr. Al-Omar, who joined KFH 20 years ago, is considered as one of the second generation leaders of this remarkable Islamic financial institution. In addition to his absolute devotion to implement Sharia rules and regulations Mr. Al-Omar's vision has developed the performance of Islamic banking business and helped in the creation of new financial products and services based on his extensive experience and knowledge in various fields and activities. Al-Omar is one of the most renowned names in the field of Islamic financial institutions; he graduated from Chapman College – USA in 1986 with a Bachelor of Sciences and Business Economics. Prior to his current post Mr. Al-Omar occupied the Deputy General Manager position for two years after working as an Assistant General Manager – Investment Sector for 6 years from 1999 – 2005. He played a significant role in the major shift for various activities in this sector in the last few years, thus resulting into the creation of new investment tools, increasing KFH global expansion and establishing strategic alliances with major global international institutions and banks. Mr. Mohammad Al-Omar said in his speech during the award ceremony in Dubai that this honoring crowns his long professional journey. However, he reiterated that KFH plays a historical role in developing the leaders of Islamic finance industry as it is considered the Harvard of Islamic Banking. He pointed out proudly that he is one of the sons of this school. In his speech Mr. Al-Omar conveyed his sincere thanks and appreciation to all leaders working in Kuwait Finance House, namely the old generation who have born all difficulties and exerted distinguished efforts in this industry. Mr. Al-Omar added that despite several and various difficulties, doubts and challenges which Islamic banking encountered over the years yet it has continued its consistent success. Sharia compliant finance business has become one of the most significant sectors in global economy, growing vastly and highly demanded in local and global markets. The current economic crises which global markets have encountered proved that Islamic banking has the elements of safety and security that enable it to add a new dimension to the world economy as well as significant values to humanity. We work based on real assets and actual projects aiming to support real economic growth. He also emphasized that now is the time for Arab and Islamic societies to reinforce the role of Sharia compliant transactions and amend their legislations and regulations to cope with the nature of Islamic finance business and eliminate all obstacles. It is important to highlight that Islamic banks work model is available for all and not limited to certain religion or race. Mr. Mohammad Al-Omar said: "One of the strategic goals which I have put and executed in cooperation with my colleagues is for KFH to become the corner stone of Islamic financial services worldwide and the partner of choice for the Islamic world.” Islamic finance services has become one of the fastest growing finance sectors worldwide. Accordingly Islamic banks are required to design and issue new competitive products and activate several professiona