Latest news with #AlHabsi
Observer
11-07-2025
- Sport
- Observer
Ali al Habsi appointed technical adviser for development at OFA
MUSCAT: nIn a move that underscores its strategic focus on enhancing the development of football in the Sultanate of Oman, the Oman Football Association (OFA) has appointed Ali bin Abdullah al Habsi as Technical Adviser for Development. Al Habsi, who is widely regarded as one of the most prominent figures in Omani sports, brings with him invaluable expertise following a distinguished football career that spanned more than two decades. Al Habsi was Born in Muscat, he began his career at Al Mudhaibi Club before joining Al Nasr. His early promise led to a historic move to Europe, making him the first goalkeeper from the Gulf region to play in the English Premier League. He represented top-tier clubs including Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic — where he was part of the FA Cup-winning squad in 2013 — and Reading FC, where he was twice named Player of the Season. On the international stage, Al Habsi earned over 130 caps with the Oman national team and played a key role in their Gulf Cup victory in 2009, where he was named Best Goalkeeper of the tournament. Since his retirement in 2020, Al Habsi has remained committed to the development of football in Oman. In his new advisory role, he is expected to focus on nurturing emerging talent, supporting technical staff, and advising on long-term strategies to boost Oman's football competitiveness. The OFA's decision to bring Al Habsi on board reflects a forward-looking vision aimed at sustainable sporting excellence.
Observer
16-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Iran-Israel conflict raises energy security concerns
MUSCAT, JUNE 16 Hostilities between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel have intensified in recent days, drawing heightened international attention to the potential implications for regional stability, energy security, and global economic performance. While diplomatic efforts are ongoing, economic experts and regional analysts continue to monitor developments with caution. At the centre of international concern is the Strait of Hormuz — a critical maritime passage through which nearly 20 per cent of the world's crude oil and 25 per cent of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) are transported daily. A prolonged disruption to the Strait would pose significant risks to energy markets and the economies that depend on secure and stable trade routes. However, analysts say the likelihood of a full closure remains limited. 'A complete shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz would not only have a profound effect on global markets but would also harm Iran's own economy,' said Azzah al Habsi, a prominent Omani economist, in a post. 'The majority of Iran's essential goods — including food, medicine, and other imports — pass through the Strait. Any disruption would come at great cost to all sides involved.' NUCLEAR RISK RAISES ALARM While maritime stability remains a central focus, experts are also warning of the far-reaching consequences that could result from a potential military strike targeting nuclear facilities. Though such an event remains hypothetical, its implications would be severe — both from a humanitarian and environmental standpoint. 'Nuclear sites are not constructed to endure direct military attacks,' Al Habsi noted. 'A strike of this nature could lead to the leakage of radioactive material, creating long-term health hazards across the region.' She pointed to historical precedents such as the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, where radioactive particles reached countries thousands of kilometres away, including Türkiye and the United Kingdom. In the Gulf context, radiation fallout from such an incident could affect neighbouring countries, disrupt agricultural systems, harm ecosystems, and lead to lasting economic dislocation. ECONOMIC IMPACT In her analysis, Al Habsi outlined four possible scenarios based on current regional dynamics, each with distinct implications for oil markets, investor sentiment, and economic stability: First, a de-escalation scenario remains the most desirable outcome. This would involve the resumption of diplomatic dialogue and nuclear negotiations, allowing tensions to subside. In this case, global oil prices are expected to stabilise between $65 and $75 per barrel, and regional markets would likely benefit from reduced risk premiums and improved investor confidence. Second, a contained conflict scenario envisions limited military exchanges without wider regional involvement. Under this condition, oil prices are likely to remain elevated in the $80 to $90 range. While energy flows may continue uninterrupted, sectors such as tourism, aviation, and logistics could experience short-term disruptions due to heightened security measures. Third, a wider escalation scenario could emerge if regional actors become directly involved or if threats to maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz materialise. This would likely drive oil prices above $100 per barrel, trigger global market volatility, and impact supply chains beyond the energy sector. Fourth, the most severe and unlikely scenario involves a direct strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure. Such an escalation could result in radiation leaks, posing health and environmental risks across borders. Oil markets would respond with extreme volatility, and regional economies could experience large-scale asset repricing. This scenario would also lead to shifts in global energy partnerships and long-term realignments in investment flows. Each of these scenarios reinforces the critical need for restraint, dialogue, and adherence to international law. Ensuring the stability of strategic maritime routes and the safety of populations throughout the region remains a shared responsibility. OMAN REAFFIRMS SUPPORT FOR DIALOGUE As a nation committed to regional peace, neutrality, and constructive diplomacy, the Sultanate of Oman continues to support efforts that promote de-escalation and mutual understanding between all parties. Oman has long advocated for the peaceful resolution of disputes and the preservation of maritime and environmental security in accordance with international norms. 'The preferred outcome is, without question, a peaceful resolution through dialogue,' Al Habsi concluded. 'Avoiding further escalation is in the interest of all countries in the region and beyond.'
Observer
08-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman leverages ‘precision agriculture' to strengthen food security
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is increasingly harnessing technology and innovation to expand and diversify its agricultural base, with the goal of strengthening food security in a sustainable manner. To this end, various state-owned enterprises are deploying precision agriculture techniques—centered on the use of AI and other tech-based tools—to boost crop yields and food production while minimizing water use and other inputs. This technology-driven approach has been emphasized by Saud Hamoud Al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, in a recent interview featured in Oxford Business Group's (OBG) 2025 annual spotlight on Oman. 'Oman's agricultural strategy over the next five to ten years prioritizes strengthening food security by diversifying crop production, increasing livestock numbers, and boosting aquaculture. Diversifying crops aims to make the Sultanate more self-sufficient and reduce dependency on imports,' Al Habsi said. 'To make Omani agricultural products more competitive on a regional scale, modern farming practices—such as precision agriculture and sustainable methods—are being adopted to improve yields and reduce input costs. Additionally, the development of food safety systems and the improvement of food establishments enhance product value while minimizing food loss and waste. Export markets are being developed through quality certification, targeted marketing, and collaboration with trade bodies to ensure Omani products meet international standards,' the Minister added. Precision agriculture is a modern farming practice that uses advanced technologies to monitor, measure, and respond to variability in fields, with the goal of optimizing productivity while reducing waste and environmental impact. It involves tools such as GPS-guided tractors and harvesters, soil and crop sensors, drones and aerial imaging, satellite-based remote sensing, and AI-powered farm management software. According to Al Habsi, technology and innovation are 'transformative forces' that enhance productivity and resource management. 'Precision agriculture, with tools including GPS, IoT sensors, and drones, allows real-time monitoring of soil health, crop conditions, and water usage—optimizing the application of vital inputs. Advanced irrigation systems, such as smart and drip irrigation, help conserve water, thereby supporting environmental sustainability, one of the four pillars of Oman Vision 2040,' he noted. Vision 2040 targets a significant strengthening of agriculture and food security by raising food self-sufficiency from around 48% to 70%, expanding cultivated land from 544 km² to 1,044 km², and promoting high-value crop production. The strategy emphasizes sustainable water use, aiming for a 40% increase in availability, and supports the adoption of modern technologies, precision farming, and digitized agricultural services. The Ministry, in collaboration with various agri- and food-focused public enterprises, has already made significant progress in leveraging technology to achieve these goals. 'Climate-resilient crops and new farming techniques such as hydroponics and greenhouse cultivation are being introduced to maximize output with limited resources. Data analytics and AI tools help farmers make informed decisions based on market trends, crop health, and weather predictions. Agricultural biotechnology, such as tissue culture, is improving crop yields and resistance to disease. Integrating these technologies enhances productivity and ensures a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system,' Al Habsi said. A leading example of precision agriculture in Oman is the Million Date Trees Plantation Project, which has employed satellite imagery, GIS, and AI to optimize date palm cultivation. Data collected via sensors and drones are analyzed using AI/ML technologies to detect issues such as pest infestations, enabling targeted interventions. This has led to increased production and improved date quality.
Observer
06-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Intellectual Property Day creates awareness on protecting works
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the Royal Opera House Muscat, and the Oman Music Centre, organised a celebration marking World Intellectual Property Day 2025 under the theme 'Intellectual Property and Music: Feeling the Rhythm of Creativity". The event aimed at raising awareness about the importance of protecting creative works and fostering innovation. This year's theme highlighted music as a universal language that reflects cultural identity and unites people, while also being an industry built on intellectual property rights deserving of protection and support. Nasra al Habsi, Director-General of Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, emphasised that World Intellectual Property Day serves as an opportunity to enhance public awareness of intellectual property rights as a pillar of sustainable development. She noted that IP rights — including patents, trademarks, industrial designs, copyrights and geographical indications — contribute to improving the business environment and advancing societies. Al Habsi pointed out that intellectual property in music extends beyond composing melodies and lyrics, encompassing performance recordings, album designs and distribution methods, all of which require a fair legal protection framework. She stressed that proper licensing for the use of musical works is a key tool in safeguarding artists' rights, ensuring they receive fair compensation when their work is used in films, advertisements, games and public performances. The celebration featured live musical performances by Omani talents, alongside workshops from participating institutions that addressed the challenges creators face in protecting their work. Discussions also covered the role of legislation and modern technologies in tracking rights and ensuring fair usage. Interactive sessions explored how intellectual property supports the music industry and raises awareness among creators. The ministry, represented by the National Intellectual Property Office, reported that 24,800 trademark examination requests were processed in 2024, while trademark filings rose to 14,100, up from 13,400 in 2023 — a 5-per cent increase. Registered trademarks reached 6,900, compared to 7,700 the previous year. Copyright applications saw a notable rise, with 175 submissions in 2024 versus 143 in 2023. Industrial design applications surged by 115%, totalling 43 in 2024, compared to 20 in 2023, while national patent applications increased to 127, up from 100 in 2023. - ONA
Observer
05-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
SQU announces Royal Grant winners
MUSCAT: Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) on Monday announced the top 10 winners of the 2025 Royal Grant for Strategic Research Projects. The announcement was made during a ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of University Day. The ceremony was held under the auspices of Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance. University Day celebration coincided with the convening of the International Research Management Conference themed "Scholarly Research and Sustainability: A Vision for Change." The conference seeks to explore ways to ensure the sustainability of research at institutional, national and international levels. It lays emphasis on upgrading sustainable funding strategies, strengthening research partnerships (between academic, industrial, and governmental institutions), building research capacities and using modern technology to update research methodologies and effective research dissemination norms. The ceremony included three documentaries that featured the Royal Grant for Strategic Research, the University Day and the achievements of the SQU in scholarly research and postgraduate studies. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Al Habsi and attendees toured an exhibition accompanying the University Day. The exhibition showcased two platforms: one on the 'Research Management System' and the other on the 'Publishing and Journals Management System'. It also included stands on innovation and technology transfer, postgraduate studies and sustainability in research. — ONA
