MUSCAT : Oman’s media professionals must adapt their production methods and skills to rapid advances in artificial intelligence while maintaining accuracy, credibility and professional responsibility, Information Minister His Excellency Dr Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi said on Saturday.

Digital transformation and the development of AI applications require continued investment in media tools and practitioners’ ability to use new technologies to produce innovative, valuable content, he said in a statement carried by Oman News Agency.

Al Harrasi was speaking ahead of the 2026 Media Excellence Competition awards ceremony, scheduled for Monday at the Ministry of Information’s theatre.

The competition, first held in 2004, has helped promote professional excellence, encourage constructive competition and recognise Omani talent across journalism, radio, television and electronic media, he said.

He described it as a national platform for improving the quality of Omani media content and strengthening its ability to keep pace with changes in the industry.

Its purpose extends beyond recognising winning entries to encouraging creative work and highlighting strong professional practices that others can learn from, he added.

Improving the media sector requires innovation, quality performance and adherence to professional standards, Al Harrasi said.

The ministry hopes the competition will strengthen the competitiveness of Omani media, encourage creativity in local content and promote practices that respond to society’s expectations, while expanding the sector’s reach and influence.

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