MUSCAT : Hussain bin Salem Al Rahbi, Director General of Support Services at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), said the figures reflect the Authority’s efforts to strengthen local content as a key pillar in supporting Oman’s economy, empowering national companies and enhancing sustainability across the civil aviation sector.

Speaking to the Oman News Agency, Al Rahbi said the increase in the number of companies benefiting from CAA contracts demonstrates the effectiveness of the policies and initiatives adopted to expand the participation of the national private sector.

He said the Authority is providing fair competitive opportunities for local firms, incorporating local content requirements into contracts and procurement, and supporting the transfer of knowledge and development of national competencies.

According to Al Rahbi, these measures also contribute to improving the efficiency and quality of services in the civil aviation sector while supporting national development goals and strengthening the competitiveness of the Omani economy.

Local content, he said, plays a significant role in helping national companies grow and remain sustainable, creating employment opportunities for Omanis, transferring modern knowledge and technologies, strengthening local supply chains and reducing dependence on overseas markets.

The approach also aims to increase the private sector’s contribution to the economy while encouraging innovation and investment in vital sectors.

The CAA considers local content a key enabler of stronger partnerships between the Authority and the private sector, helping improve aviation services in line with approved standards and international best practices.

As part of its local content strategy, the Authority gives priority to qualified local companies when awarding projects and tenders and encourages the use of national products and services whenever they meet required quality standards.

It also promotes greater SME participation and considers the employment and training of Omani talent among the key criteria used when evaluating companies.

The Authority continues to provide training and development programmes while creating opportunities for local businesses to participate in its projects, helping improve their operational and financial stability and competitiveness.

Support measures include simplifying company registration and qualification procedures, improving access to information about projects and tenders, providing appropriate project implementation periods and strengthening direct communication with suppliers.

The CAA is also encouraging partnerships between Omani companies and international firms to facilitate the transfer of expertise and build stronger national supply chains.

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