Muscat – This program aims to position information and communications technology as a foundational sector for stimulating the national economy.

Running from 2024 to the end of 2026, the program includes various initiatives and projects designed to keep pace with global advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Key components of the initiative include the establishment of a national open data platform to support entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers, as well as a national centre for research and development in AI to assist researchers and academics.

Additionally, an AI ‘studio’ will be created as a collaborative space for AI specialists and organizations seeking technological solutions. The program also aims to develop an Omani language model trained on cultural, historical, artistic, and scientific content, leveraging generative AI technology; establishment of a centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and in partnership with the World Economic Forum; and implementation of quantum computing initiatives to spread awareness, enhance research and development and adopt quantum computing applications.
H.E. Eng. Saeed bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, emphasized that this initiative builds on the Executive Program for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies launched in 2022. He explained that the Ministry is working to establish the basic foundations for artificial intelligence applications and advanced digital technologies in Oman to build a digital economy capable of achieving sustainable development.

The program aims to adopt artificial intelligence in economic and development sectors, localize advanced digital technologies, achieve effective governance of artificial intelligence applications, and achieve progress in global indicators, as the Sultanate of Oman seeks to be among the top 50 countries in the Government Readiness Index for Artificial Intelligence.

The program includes three main axes: enhancing AI adoption, localising AI technologies and governance of AI applications with a human-centred vision.