Muscat: Asma bint Saeed Al-Yahya’i, a member of the Omani Committee for Electronic Games and Sports, said the esports landscape in Oman is witnessing a significant rise in interest among young people, alongside steady growth in participation by players, clubs and investing companies. She noted that Oman has actively embraced the sector by organising events and competitions and forming national teams that compete in regional and international championships.

She explained that a key step towards professionalism and sustainable economic returns lies in the committee’s plan to establish a national esports centre equipped to meet the needs of professional teams. The vision also includes attracting sponsors and investors, supporting Omani game developers, and encouraging those interested in game design to enter the sector.

On talent identification, Al-Yahya’i said the committee relies on detailed statistical data, including player numbers, hours spent gaming and game categories. This is complemented by local tournaments at schools, universities and institutions, as well as an annual nationwide championship aimed at identifying talented and professional players.

Addressing social and organisational challenges, she said the committee places strong emphasis on changing stereotypes around esports through community awareness initiatives. These include workshops in schools and universities highlighting the positive aspects of esports, partnerships with various sectors to strengthen its sporting presence, and tournaments dedicated to empowering women in the field.

She added that the future of esports in Oman is closely tied to the creativity of Omani youth and their ability to harness modern technologies. National competitions are being held to develop digital solutions for esports, while specialised programmes and courses are enabling game developers to use artificial intelligence tools. Collaboration is also underway with educational institutions to introduce academic pathways that support innovation and programming in game development.

Al-Yahya’i stressed that integrating future-oriented tools into development strategies reflects Oman’s commitment to building a generation capable of creating technology, not merely consuming it, noting that esports has become an investment in intellect and creativity rather than just a sporting activity.

From the players’ perspective, Omar bin Saif Al-Amri, a member of the Omani national esports team, described esports as a passion that goes beyond competition. He said his journey began in mid-2019, making him one of the first players to enter the field following the establishment of the Omani Committee for Games and Esports.

He explained that years of structured daily training and representing Oman in international events have strengthened his self-confidence and sense of responsibility as a professional player. While he believes the sector is developing steadily due to increased awareness and growing opportunities, he noted that further organisation and investment are needed to reach full professionalism.

Al-Amri highlighted his aspiration for an integrated professional environment that includes regular local tournaments supported by a clear ranking system, specialised training programmes, professional coaches and external training camps to help Omani players compete at advanced global levels.

Meanwhile, Fahr bin Zayed Al-Kindi, captain of the Omani national e-football team, said esports is no different from traditional sports in terms of discipline and commitment. Drawing on his background as a former football player, he said esports demands physical and mental endurance, intense focus and significant personal sacrifice.

He added that esports has become both a lifestyle and a passion, with his ultimate goal being to represent Oman at international events in the best possible manner. Al-Kindi stressed that esports represents the present, not just the future, citing its growing role in boosting competitiveness, the economy and tourism. He called for a clear strategic vision for the sector and the appointment of experienced sports professionals to manage it, enabling Omani talent to shine on Arab and international stages.