Oman Elevates AI Landscape with the “AI Economics Initiative 2024” Forum
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: Oman’s Ministry of Economy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, hosted the groundbreaking “Artificial Intelligence Economics Initiative 2024” forum in Muscat on Sunday. The event brought together Omani companies specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and various government agencies, underlining Oman’s commitment to technological advancement and innovation.
The forum aimed at fostering collaboration between the government and private sectors to maximize in-country value (ICV) and showcase innovative AI solutions across diverse sectors. The initiative seeks to harness the expertise of the private sector, inform government agencies about the latest AI technologies, and strengthen cooperation between sectors for enhanced ICV from national projects.
Under the patronage of HH Sayyid Dr. Kamil bin Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Secretary General at the Secretariat General of the Council of Ministers, the event marked a significant milestone in Oman’s journey toward becoming a leader in AI and future technologies.
Dr. Said bin Mohammed Al Saqri, Minister of Economy, disclosed that the ministry’s approved development budget for AI projects in 2025 will amount to OMR15 million. Of this, OMR10 million will be allocated for government agencies, and OMR5 million will be directed towards governorates.
In his address, Minister Al Saqri emphasized the importance of aligning national efforts with global technological developments, ensuring economic flexibility, responsiveness to changes, and readiness to invest in opportunities. He highlighted the crucial role of AI in Oman’s economic growth, as outlined in the 10th five-year development plan (2021-2025).
The minister unveiled the Ministry of Economy’s commitment to AI with the launch of the “National Initiative to Empower the National Economy Enhanced with Artificial Intelligence” in June 2023. This initiative aims to integrate AI applications and technologies into development projects, fostering innovation and knowledge economy activities.
Projects approved within the Artificial Intelligence Economics Initiative were showcased during the forum, with a focus on their social, developmental, and economic impacts. Winning projects, including “Smart Management” for the Ministry of Labour and the “Environmental Information Bank with AI and Blockchain Technology” for the Environment Authority, were announced.
These projects, spanning various sectors, are expected to enhance service provision efficiency, reduce costs, stimulate innovation, and improve resource management. The social impact includes improved access to medical services, sustainable resource management, enhanced communication, and coordination between government levels, ultimately contributing to the development of Oman’s national economy and attracting investments.
The forum’s success highlights Oman’s commitment to fostering a digitally advanced future, promoting innovation, and positioning itself as a hub for AI development and application on both national and global fronts.
