Latest news with #AlibinAmeralShidhani
Observer
09-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman launches space accelerator programme to boost innovation
MUSCAT: In a significant move in furtherance of Oman Vision 2040, the Sultanate of Oman has launched the Oman Space Accelerators Programme—an innovative programme to foster in-country capabilities in the global space sector and establish a knowledge-based economy. Commissioned by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), the accelerator is Oman's first and is being established in partnership with Ankaa Space & Technologies and UK space innovation business Exotopic. Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Under-Secretary for Communications and Information Technology, explained: 'It is the first-of-its-kind accelerator programme in Oman that is initiated to serve technology companies that want to venture into the growing space industry. The programme will provide technical guidance, awareness training, and official networking with investors, global corporations, and world space industry legends.' He continued, "The long-term vision of the accelerator is to equip 10 Omani companies with the necessary tools and expertise to be path-breaking drivers of the space economy, contributing directly to Oman Vision 2040's innovation and human capital targets." The 15-week programme, extending from late August through early December, will support ten Omani startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, entrepreneurs, and academics with a fast-track sequence of training workshops and business development exercises. Dr Saoud bin Humaid al Shoaili, Head of the National Space Programme, linked the programme to broader national interests: "As part of an effort to realize the ambitious goals of the National Space Programme and Oman Vision 2040, we launched a comprehensive strategy aimed at developing strong national capabilities in the sector." Dr Al Shoaili also explained that the project fosters a competitive culture that encourages creative solutions, and the first three entities are awarded to encourage sustainable activities corresponding to strategic goals of the industry. The programme will focus on key space industry domains such as communications, earth observation, geospatial analytics, navigation, drones, AI and machine learning, advanced computing, data storage, IoT, spacecraft simulations, startup acceleration, and technology innovation. He outlined the three strategic pillars of the programme: institutional capacity, individual skills development, and entrepreneurial and commercial capability. 'Since January 2023, we've implemented a number of targeted initiatives to strengthen Omani expertise and readiness in the space domain, in line with national aspirations,' he said. Ghaida al Jabri, Project Manager at Ankaa Space & Technologies, highlighted the inclusive and collaborative nature of the project. "Oman has worked on this programme in partnership with MoTCIT, Al Ankaa, and Exotopic in the National Space Programme. It is a demonstration of direct contribution to the innovation and private sector development pillars of Oman Vision 2040." She added, "The programme aims to fast-track the growth of domestic entities and put them in a position to be at the forefront of Oman's new space economy." Speaking to the Observer, Dan Veal, Principal Investigator at Exotopic, emphasised the strategic timing of Oman's entry into the space race. "Oman is entering the international space sector at a critical time when neighboring nations are heavily investing in space technologies. The project represents a significant opportunity for young Omanis and small and medium enterprises to take up a forward-thinking and fast-growing global industry." He noted, "Given the data-driven nature of the space economy, it's quite open for new entrants to make a significant impact quite soon. Oman has a good chance of competing at the regional and global level."
Observer
09-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Comex 2025 from September 7-10
Muscat: Comex 2025 will be held at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 7-10, with the participation of over 300 local and international companies, offering a platform for digital investment, according to the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT). COMEX 2025 is set to redefine the technology exhibition landscape with an expansive showcase of groundbreaking advancements in eGovernment, fintech, and smart cities, to immersive experiences in health tech, agritech, and cybersecurity, the event promises to be a hub for digital transformation. With new features like the Enterprise Arena, Banking and Fintech Zone, and Tech Startup Pavilion, COMEX 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring cutting-edge technologies. Dr. Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology, said that the ministry seeks to make COMEX a platform for direct promotion of investment opportunities by supporting emerging technology companies and promoting their products, enhancing local content, and fostering cooperation between the public and private sectors and international cooperation in this field. He said that the ministry will organize a series of events and workshops in the field of communications and information technology, focusing on digital investment, electronic games, digital tourism, and the creative content industry. With over 80,000 visitors, COMEX 2024 achieved its desired objectives as a marketing and investment showcase and contributed to enhancing communication between companies and investors. The Undersecretary said that the communications and information technology sector in the Sultanate of Oman witnessed a growth of 10.6 percent in the first quarter of this year compared to the first quarter of 2024, while the volume of local investments in artificial intelligence reached approximately RO60 million by the end of last year.
Muscat Daily
08-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman to unveil initiatives in Cybersecurity, AI at COMEX 2025
Muscat – The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has announced plans to launch several digital initiatives in the fields of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) in September 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference on Tuesday outlining details of COMEX 2025, which will take place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 7 to 10. The event is expected to host more than 300 local and international companies. H E Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Undersecretary of MTCIT for Communications and Information Technology, said the ministry aims to position COMEX as a strategic platform to promote investment opportunities in the ICT sector. The event will support emerging technology firms, enhance local content, encourage public-private partnerships, and foster international collaboration. This year's edition will see widespread participation from companies, specialised pavilions, and a range of activities. MTCIT will showcase key projects and initiatives under the National Digital Economy Programme at its dedicated pavilion. The exhibition will also feature a series of workshops and events covering themes such as digital investment, e-gaming, digital tourism, and creative content. These activities are designed to attract startups and investors and to stimulate growth in Oman's digital economy. COMEX 2025 will host the Cybersecurity Forum, which will highlight national efforts and achievements in the field. The forum aims to support local startups and young Omanis in developing advanced cybersecurity solutions while also drawing on international expertise. Another major highlight will be the AI and Quantum Computing Forum, which seeks to raise awareness of advanced technologies and promote research and industrial partnerships. Discussions will focus on applications of quantum AI across key sectors. A hackathon focused on cybersecurity solutions will also be held as part of the event. Dr Shidhani pointed to the success of COMEX 2024, which resulted in the signing of 60 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over RO85mn – a 112% increase compared to 2023. The previous edition featured more than 60 workshops, 25 startup events, 100 expert speakers, and 350 participating entities, drawing over 80,000 visitors. He also noted the strong performance of Oman's ICT sector, which grew by 10.6% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Local investment in AI reached nearly RO60mn by the end of last year, driven by national initiatives focused on advanced technologies. COMEX 2025 will include a digital investment zone designed to attract local and international investors, localise emerging technologies, and promote Oman as a regional hub for digital investment. A dedicated pavilion for tech startups will also be established, offering specialised workshops.
Observer
08-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
COMEX 2025 to propel Oman as regional powerhouse for digital innovation
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) and Arabian Research Bureau hosted a press conference yesterday to showcase this year's edition of COMEX, Oman's premier digital economy and technology innovation exhibition. COMEX 2025 will be held during September 7–10, 2025 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. Speaking at the event, Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Under-Secretary for Communications and Information Technology, stressed the catalytic position COMEX still enjoys in Oman's national development priorities. "COMEX is a premier platform for digital innovation and collaboration," he stated. "This year's conference will have success stories of the public and private sectors to demonstrate how technology is shaping our economy." COMEX 2025, he said, will feature major international announcements and more participation from countries like Pakistan, China, and India as a testament to Oman's growing presence on the global digital map. In the 2024 edition of the exhibition, 60 agreements worth over RO 85 million were signed—a figure organisers are poised to beat this year. The event speaks directly to the pillars of Oman Vision 2040, and specifically to those for economic diversification, private sector leadership, digital governance, and human capital development, the Under-Secretary said. An area devoted to a government pavilion will highlight key national digital initiatives such as the National Centre for Cybersecurity (Hadatha), the National Centre for AI and Space Technologies, and government service integrated platforms. Themed areas will be devoted to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, smart cities, space technology, and renewable energy—all vision areas of Oman Vision 2040. Amr Baabood, CEO, OITE Group, noted COMEX's strategic alignment with Oman's national vision. "Oman Vision 2040 is a roadmap for an economy fit for the future. COMEX is not just on this roadmap's path—it is building the ecosystem to bring it to life," he stated. "COMEX closes the gap between technology and national priorities through innovation zones and public-private partnerships." This year's agenda also includes the Cybersecurity Investment and Local Product Forum and the AI and Quantum Computing Forum to stimulate local capabilities, facilitate research collaboration, and push innovation. There will also be a 24-hour cybersecurity hackathon (CTF) that will challenge participants to develop solutions to real-world threats. Sultan al Busaidi, Marketing Executive with Arabian Research Bureau, announced the inauguration of national pavilions wherein each country will have a unique space to showcase digital advancements. Furthermore, the Digital Investment Corner and Startup Pavilion will provide opportunities for venture capital interaction along with success stories' profiles of Omani entrepreneurs. The press conference concluded with the signing of a strategic partnership between COMEX and Oman Air, with the goal of increasing both domestic and international participation.
Muscat Daily
18-05-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman unveils policy for safe, ethical use of AI
Muscat – Oman has presented a document – Public Policy for the Safe and Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence Systems – setting a comprehensive regulatory framework for responsible development and deployment of AI technologies. Announced by Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), the policy aims to ensure the secure and ethical use of AI while fostering innovation and enhancing the sultanate's global competitiveness. In a statement, the ministry said the policy integrates technical safeguards and ethical guidelines to build public trust in AI systems. It applies to all government entities and private sector institutions regulated by relevant authorities that develop or use AI technologies. The policy covers critical areas, including systems security, ethical compliance, transparency in AI decision-making and robust data privacy protection. It also outlines legal responsibilities of stakeholders involved in AI development and deployment, and promotes fairness by guarding against bias and discrimination. Additionally, it encourages sustainable innovation that benefits society and the environment. In parallel, MTCIT is advancing a national programme aimed at positioning the digital economy as a key driver of economic growth and competitiveness. This initiative seeks to attract foreign investment, expand digital industries and localise cutting-edge technologies in Oman. As part of this effort, the ministry has secured several high-impact ICT projects that contribute to economic diversification and generate employment for Omani professionals and opportunities for startups. H E Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Undersecretary in MTCIT, announced that Dhofar now hosts multiple data centre projects, representing foreign investments of up to RO80mn. These centres focus on data processing, blockchain technologies and cryptocurrency mining – areas aligned with Oman's broader digital transformation goals. The projects have led to over 25 contracts of value exceeding RO22mn being awarded to local companies.
