MUSCAT: An Earth Observation satellite centre is among an array of projects identified for implementation during the course of 2025 as part of the Omani government’s Partnership for Development (PFD) programme.
Overseen by the Ministry of Finance, the PFD Programme – also known globally as ‘Offset’ – seeks to enable the transfer of advanced technologies and expertise through collaborations with leading international companies. This partnership also contributes to strengthening the capabilities of the national workforce through tech transfer, as well as facilitating exposure to international best practices.
The newly unveiled 2025 State General Budget lists Offset projects designed to, among other objectives, strengthen the leadership capacities of national cadres, boost in-country quality control capabilities and support training in advanced engineering applications.
Most notable is a plan for the construction of an Earth Station to receive satellite images and support Earth monitoring in cooperation with the National Survey Authority.
Leading international space technology firm Indra had announced, two years ago, that it is establishing an advanced Earth observation satellite centre in Oman. The project was conceived as part of an initiative to help local authorities harness satellite data to support urban planning, strengthen protection against natural disasters and generally enhance the competitiveness of the Omani economy.
According to Spanish-based Indra, the satellite centre will play an important role in supporting a number of strategic national objectives. In addition to land use control and urban planning, satellite data analysed with the aid of the centre will also help in maritime traffic safety, environmental protection and the efficient planning of critical national infrastructure.
Also identified for completion this year is the National Programme for Leadership Development and Future Foresight project in cooperation with the University of Arizona and the Royal Academy of Management. The initiative seeks to secure the graduation of more than 100 trainees and 24 certified trainers in leadership.
In Dhofar Governorate, a one-of-a-kind Quality Control laboratory of Nakheel Oman is planned for completion this year under the PFD programme. Likewise, a first-of-its-kind Center of Excellence for Training and Advanced Engineering Applications is proposed to be fitted out and equipped this year as part of an Offset initiative.
“The procedures for finalising several frameworks and supplementary agreements with companies committed to the Partnership for Development Programme are currently in progress to implement various projects,” the Ministry of Finance added in its 2025 State General Budget statement.
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