MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman has launched the "National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies," a key initiative under Oman Vision 2040 aimed at positioning information and communications technology as a cornerstone of the national economy. Spanning from 2024 to 2026, the programme includes several projects to advance AI and digital technologies, enhance economic growth, and strengthen Oman's global competitiveness.
Key initiatives of the programme include establishing a national open data platform to support entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers; creating a national center for AI research and development to support researchers; and launching an AI studio to connect specialists with companies seeking AI-driven solutions. Additionally, the programme will develop an Omani language model using generative AI trained on local cultural, historical, and scientific content and set up a Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in partnership with the World Economic Forum. The initiatives also cover quantum computing projects to foster research, raise awareness, and drive the adoption of quantum technologies.
Eng Saeed bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, emphasised that this programme builds upon the executive AI programme launched in 2022, aiming to establish a strong foundation for AI applications and advanced digital technologies in Oman to drive sustainable economic growth.
The programme's goals include integrating AI into key economic sectors, localising advanced digital technologies, establishing robust governance frameworks, and enhancing Oman's standing in global AI readiness rankings. The plan aspires to place Oman among the top 50 countries in the Government Readiness Index for Artificial Intelligence.
The programme revolves around three main pillars: Promoting AI in Economic and Development Sectors: This pillar focuses on supporting AI adoption across various industries to enhance service quality and operational efficiency.
Localising AI Technologies: This pillar aims to build local capabilities by fostering public-private partnerships, developing technical infrastructure, and advancing research and development in AI.
Governance of AI Applications: This human-centered approach seeks to establish regulatory frameworks that ensure the ethical use of AI, protect data privacy, and build trust in advanced digital technologies.
Reflecting Oman’s commitment to digital transformation, the programme includes initiatives to support AI-focused tech startups, stimulate investments, and establish specialised data centers, contributing to the digital economy's growth from 2% of GDP in 2021 to 10% by 2040.
The programme's AI Economics Initiative and support for pilot projects in sectors like transportation, logistics, tourism, food security, and manufacturing aim to drive economic diversification, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity, aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
To foster digital innovation, the programme will launch the AI Studio, National Research Center for AI, and AI Makers initiatives, along with specialised competitions and events designed to cultivate emerging AI companies and innovations. These efforts will position Oman as a hub for AI innovation, encouraging universities and research centers to produce new technologies that support economic growth.
The Omani language model will also play a key role in enhancing productivity and preserving cultural identity by automating tasks such as analysis, strategy development, and content creation while maintaining Omani cultural, literary, and artistic values.
Additionally, the programme will enhance the digital skills of Omani youth through targeted training initiatives, specialised programmes in data analysis and AI, and new AI-focused educational curricula, preparing a new generation of innovators and positioning Oman as a leader in developing highly skilled national talent.
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