Oman Celebrates World Intellectual Property Day
Dhofar, The Gulf Observer: Today, the Sultanate of Oman marked World Intellectual Property Day under the theme of “Intellectual Property (IP) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—Building Our Common Future with Innovation and Creativity”. The event, organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, showcased Oman’s commitment to fostering innovation and creativity while aligning with global sustainability objectives.
Held in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, the Ministry of Economy, Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s branch in Dhofar Governorate, and supportive firms, the celebration took place at the esteemed Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment. Under the esteemed patronage of HH Sayyid Marwan bin Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, the ceremony marked the inauguration of a dedicated department for intellectual property and patents.
The establishment of this department signifies Oman’s dedication to enhancing institutional cooperation and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation. In a significant stride towards fostering awareness and understanding of intellectual property rights, HH Sayyid Marwan launched the Omani version of “DL101” – a standard course designed to equip participants with fundamental knowledge of IP rights in alignment with Omani laws and culture.
The activities of the World Intellectual Property Day included an insightful discussion panel exploring the role of IP in sustainable development. The panel emphasized the importance of soliciting public opinion and drafting proposals to leverage IP for achieving the SDGs effectively.
A highlight of the event was the inauguration of a roadshow, showcasing the contributions of various public and private entities, innovators, and inventors towards Oman’s intellectual property landscape. Additionally, the ceremony featured the assessment of teams participating in the “Innovation Vision Award”, an initiative by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, aimed at recognizing excellence in innovation and environmental sustainability.
In a show of appreciation for innovation and creativity, the chief guest felicitated winners of contests organized by the ministries in the fields of inventions, innovations, and intellectual property.
Oman’s dedication to fostering innovation and protecting intellectual property rights is evident in the significant rise in trademark and patent applications, with 14,234 applications processed in 2023, reflecting a 12.59% increase compared to 2022 figures.
