In recent years, Oman has achieved significant advances in global competitiveness rankings, marking impressive progress across economic, environmental, and technological fronts. These achievements are far more than mere figures; they are a testament to Oman’s commitment to sustainable, forward-looking development. At the heart of this transformation lies the National Competitiveness Office (NCO), an entity whose strategic efforts to enhance Oman’s performance domestically and internationally have positioned the Sultanate of Oman as a regional leader. Through a blend of targeted reform and robust international collaboration, Oman has emerged as a nation dedicated to responsible growth and resilience.
In an increasingly interconnected world, global indicators have become essential for measuring a country’s standing and guiding its developmental trajectory. These indicators assess various domains, from governance and economic freedom to innovation and environmental performance. For Oman, competitiveness is not merely a ranking; it is a mission to maximise productivity and optimise resources within strong institutional frameworks. International benchmarks offer clear direction, helping Oman identify strengths and areas for improvement. They provide Oman with a strategic path for sustainable growth and bolster its reputation as a responsible player on the global stage.
Oman’s engagement with international indicators is not about recognition alone — it is a strategic tool with profound implications for the nation’s growth. Firstly, global rankings align national objectives with international standards, driving Oman toward impactful achievements. Secondly, strong rankings enhance Oman’s appeal as an investment and tourism destination, strengthening its global reputation. Indicators also provide critical data to inform policy, allowing Oman to craft effective, evidence-based decisions. Additionally, through benchmarking, Oman can adopt successful practices from other nations, tailoring them to local needs. Lastly, these rankings support continuous improvement by highlighting areas that need attention, enabling regular assessment and sustained progress.
The credibility of international indicators lies in their diverse sources, which combine objective data with perception-based insights. Factual data, such as statistical records and legal frameworks, provide a reliable view of national performance. Meanwhile, perception-based insights from surveys, interviews, and expert evaluations add valuable context, offering a comprehensive picture of Oman’s achievements and challenges.
The proactive efforts of the NCO have propelled Oman’s rise across several key international rankings. Oman’s Economic Freedom Index, for instance, improved from 95th to 56th place. Its Environmental Performance Index leapt from 149th to 54th, while its E-Government Development Index climbed from 41st to 50th. These advancements reflect Oman’s commitment to fostering a stable economic environment that supports investment, promotes innovation, and values environmental sustainability — all pillars essential to the future Oman envisions.
The NCO has played a central role in driving Oman’s competitiveness. Through targeted strategies, the NCO has catalysed significant improvements. Its work includes modernising legislative frameworks to align with international standards, enhancing Oman’s competitive edge. To ensure the accuracy and reliability of Oman’s global standing, the NCO collaborates with local and international bodies to validate and update national data. Through training workshops and consultancy, the NCO empowers public and private institutions to adopt best practices, strengthening efficiency across sectors. Additionally, by fostering partnerships with global organisations, the NCO amplifies Oman’s influence on the world stage.
Oman’s progress is well-documented across multiple international reports, highlighting advancements in areas crucial to the nation’s sustainability and resilience. Key indicators include the Environmental Performance Index, Governance Indicators, Global Innovation Index, Economic Freedom Index, Network Readiness Index, Future Growth Report, and Corruption Perception Index. These rankings illustrate Oman’s comprehensive approach to development, underscoring its commitment to building a resilient future that is sustainable across all sectors.
The NCO has implemented numerous initiatives to strengthen Oman’s position in these rankings. These efforts focus on data accuracy, public education, and international cooperation. The NCO actively monitors 14 core indicators, addressing challenges to ensure sustainable growth. Regular data updates and participation in international surveys guarantee that Oman’s data is both current and credible. Through more than 20 workshops held in collaboration with international organisations, the NCO raises public awareness of global competitiveness and fosters a sense of shared responsibility. Additionally, Oman’s membership in four major international organisations strengthens partnerships with over 80 global entities, expanding the Sultanate of Oman’s influence and reinforcing its presence on the global stage.
A closer look at Oman’s competitiveness reveals the impact of the NCO’s work. Currently, the NCO tracks 14 primary indicators and manages over 100 ongoing initiatives focused on growth and development. Through frequent data updates and validation efforts, Oman maintains data accuracy, which is vital for global credibility. With a comprehensive media strategy and a series of public workshops, the NCO builds a national understanding of the importance of competitiveness, engaging both public and private sectors in the process. Internationally, Oman’s partnerships span over 200 local and global entities, with memberships that further cement its role as an influential global player.
Oman’s achievements in global competitiveness are not just a point of national pride; they reflect a strategic commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. The work of the National Competitiveness Office has been instrumental in this journey, positioning Oman as a nation with a clear vision backed by solid planning and action. As Oman continues to embrace best practices and strengthen its international alliances, it is well-poised to deepen its role as a leader in regional and global competitiveness.
Oman’s journey serves as a model of what strategic planning, bolstered by thoughtful policy and international collaboration, can achieve. With a firm commitment to continuous improvement and a long-term vision for the future, Oman is paving the way for a competitive, resilient, and sustainable future — one that promises opportunity and prosperity for generations to come.
Qasim Al Maashani
The author is the head of Oman Observer's Business section
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