Considered one of the most successful bankers in the Arab world, Abdul Majeed Shoman, who died on Tuesday, was more than a wealthy man and an energetic banker.

Shoman has always ascertained that the huge financial potential of the Arab Bank is made available to support and reinforce the economies of all Arab nations.
Shoman whose American-based Arab Bank was considered a pillar of Jordan's economy was one of those who used his power and wealth to develop Jordan and enhance cultural life through various initiatives.

Shoman has always ascertained that the huge financial potential of the Arab Bank is made available to support and reinforce the economies of all Arab nations.

He was also involved in Arab affairs and fostered a strong relationship with different Arab leaders.

Born in Bait Hanania in Jerusalem, Palestine, Shoman lived his childhood away from his father who was working in the United States to earn a living for his big family back home.

He lived with his grandmother since his mother died shortly after his birth.

He joined his father in the US at the age of 14 to continue his education.

Shoman graduated from the University of New York from where he got his Bachelors and Masters degrees in economics and banking in 1936, which qualified him to join his father at the bank which was growing steadily.

He took over after his father's death in 1972 and was credited with expanding the bank by opening up 378 branches in 27 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. He won the award for Distinguished Arab Personality 2002, for his outstanding personal efforts in building a world class Arab financial institution which was presented to him by General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister.

At the end of the award presentation ceremony, Shoman told Gulf News: "I'm pleased and proud to receive this award and appreciate Shaikh Mohammad for his distinguished efforts in recognising talent in the Arab world."

Shoman who worked closely with his father and learnt most of his work ethic and social morals from him, said the most important thing he learnt from his father was "Our country needs men of character".

Shoman truly believed that in a world of conflicting interests, nations' rights could only be attained and sustained through a sound and strong economy.