MUSCAT: The new Oman Business Platform, proposed to be established as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative, is envisioned as the digital headquarters for efficient and secure government services, according to the Ministry of Finance (MoF).
Leading UK-based independent investment and financial advisory services group Altra Capital has been selected to support the Ministry of Finance, as well as the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment promotion (MoCIIP), in the restructuring of the Oman Business Platform as a PPP project aimed at streamlining and enhancing digital interactions for businesses in Oman.
Expressions of Interest (EoI) from local and international companies interested in partnering with the MoCIIP in the implementation and operation of the platform are due for submission by November 12, 2024.
Announcing the PPP initiative, the Ministry of Finance said: “The (Oman Business Platform) project aims to further develop the platform's capabilities, aligning it with the strategic objectives of the Oman 2040 Vision by leveraging cutting-edge technology and private sector expertise. The project will focus on enhancing the platform's functionality, ensuring robust digital transformation in government-to-business interactions.” First launched in 2003 as a One Stop Shop (OSS), it was gradually rebranded as the Oman Business Platform, featuring a comprehensive suite of e-services developed to streamline government-to-business interactions.
Through the latest PPP initiative, the platform is now proposed to be revamped to maintain ongoing service continuity while integrating new services and functionalities that meet the evolving needs of its users, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
Importantly, the new Oman Business Platform is envisioned as the digital headquarters for efficient and secure government services, says the Ministry of Finance. “This Project will focus on strategic enhancements that support a seamless, robust user experience, aligning with MOCIIP's commitment to digital governance and the broader goals of the Oman 2040 Vision,” it said.
Local and international technology service providers with a proven track record in the development, implementation, and operation of large-scale digital platforms and e-services have been invited to bid for the contract to partner in this initiative.
The selected private partner in the project will be required to design, finance, develop, and operate these enhancements. The goal is to foster innovation and deliver a world-class digital platform that remains competitive on a global scale, according to the MoF, which currently oversees all PPP projects.
Conceived as a sophisticated e-government service digital hub, the Oman Business Platform will be designed to manage a vast array of transactions and data interactions across government and private sectors. It will leverage a robust technical architecture focused on reliability, security, and efficiency.
The term of the PPP contract is seven years, with the option of 1+1 year renewable periods, the Ministry added.
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