Oman’s First AI Zone: A Game-Changer for Tech Start-Ups and Investors in the Sultanate
MUSCAT, SEPT 10 — Oman is set to become a regional hub for technology start-ups with the establishment of its first-ever cluster dedicated to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Advanced Technologies in the Wilayat of Al Seeb, Muscat Governorate. This landmark initiative was formally announced at Comex 2025, representing a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) and the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ).
The newly launched AI Zone Special Economic Zone will be developed initially over 100,000 square meters by local Omani developer Afouq Investment & Development, in partnership with Egypt’s Prime Group. The partnership plans to attract investments totaling approximately RO 100 million during this first phase.
Dr. Seema al Kaabi, Acting Director General at MoTCIT, highlighted the project’s strategic importance: “This initiative aims to establish an integrated environment to attract investments in technology, particularly focusing on AI and emerging tech start-ups from Oman, the Middle East, and Africa. It is designed to bolster the national economy, advance technology infrastructure, support the growth and global expansion of start-ups, create specialized high-quality jobs, and position Oman as a regional hub for AI innovation.”
OPAZ will oversee regulatory and supervisory duties while the Ministry will provide technical expertise throughout the cluster’s development. Afouq will manage infrastructure building, operational oversight, zone promotion to attract businesses and investors, and will also focus on enhancing local value creation alongside supporting social responsibility programs.
Describing the project as a strategic leap toward technology localization, Dr. al Kaabi emphasized its role in establishing Oman as a preferred destination for AI and technology enterprises regionally and globally.
Siham al Harthy, Chairperson of Afouq, added, “The AI Zone will serve as an architectural landmark that blends inspiration from global tech hubs with Omani heritage, offering a launchpad for start-ups within a nurturing, innovation-driven setting.”
Mahmoud Farrag, CEO of Prime Group, noted, “Following the agreement signing, we have rapidly initiated global partnerships essential to bringing this visionary zone to life. Developing a dedicated AI and advanced technology hub requires collaboration with internationally recognized entities. Prime Group’s extensive experience across Vietnam, the UAE, and various countries in Asia and Africa, along with our global network of corporations, research institutions, and accelerators, will establish this zone as a premier global platform for future investment and innovation.”
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The launch of the AI Zone Special Economic Zone in Al Seeb marks a strategic opportunity for Oman to become a regional hub for AI and advanced technology innovation, attracting start-ups and global investors alike. Businesses should capitalize on the influx of cutting-edge technologies and the government’s strong support, while investors and entrepreneurs need to consider the potential for high-growth ventures in a future-ready ecosystem backed by robust infrastructure and international partnerships. This initiative also signals a shift toward localizing advanced tech expertise, creating quality jobs, and strengthening Oman’s position in the global innovation landscape.
