Chinese Firms Support Oman’s Solar and Cyber Initiatives: Implications for Investors and Entrepreneurs
MUSCAT, JUNE 13 — Chinese investors have announced ambitious plans to establish a significant solar manufacturing complex and a regional cybersecurity hub in Oman, highlighting the increasing international confidence in the Sultanate’s industrial, digital, and clean-energy initiatives as outlined in Oman Vision 2040.
The developments were revealed during the Oman Future Fund (FFO) investment showcase on Tuesday, where representatives from Orion Solar and XCyber detailed projects poised to enhance Oman’s role in renewable energy production and digital security, while also creating high-value job opportunities.
Mark Jiang Pengjing, Deputy General Manager of Orion Solar, emphasized the rationale behind selecting Oman for this major overseas investment, citing the country’s clear vision, commitment to sustainability, and conducive investment climate. “In a world full of opportunities, we have chosen Oman because we firmly believe it will be one of the greatest success stories of the next decade,” Pengjing remarked.
The Orion Solar project, one of the Fund’s most substantial industrial investments, plans to set up an integrated solar cell and module manufacturing facility in Sohar Freezone. The project involves an estimated investment of approximately RO 220 million and is projected to produce 6 gigawatts of solar cells and 3 gigawatts of solar panels annually.
“This is far more than an ordinary factory. It will serve as a powerhouse of clean-energy innovation and one of the largest and most advanced facilities of its kind globally,” Pengjing noted. He also highlighted that the project would generate thousands of jobs, foster technology transfer, and contribute over RO 20 million annually in local procurement.
“We are not only manufacturing high-quality products, but we are also building industry capabilities, empowering future opportunities, and shaping a new era for the renewable energy industry right here in Oman,” he added. Additionally, the company aims to collaborate closely with local universities, research institutions, and industries to cultivate expertise in renewable energy technologies.
At the same event, cybersecurity firm XCyber announced its plans to bolster Oman’s digital security landscape by investing in sovereign cybersecurity capabilities, developing local talent, and deploying advanced AI-powered security solutions. Fan Zhang, Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of XCyber, described Oman as an ideal location for the company’s regional growth, citing the nation’s rapid economic transformation and commitment to digital advancement.
“As a company backed by OIA, we are dedicated to building a world-class security hub right here,” Zhang stated. XCyber, which is the international branch of China’s QAX cybersecurity group, has recently joined the Oman Investment Authority ecosystem through a partnership with EW Partners and the Future Fund Oman.
The company outlined a comprehensive strategy focused on establishing national-level cybersecurity monitoring capabilities, creating localized cybersecurity products, and enhancing Oman-based cybersecurity services. “Our collaboration with OIA will emphasize building national cybersecurity monitoring capability and strengthening localized service capacities,” added Zhang.
Plans include the establishment of local security operations centers, digital forensic laboratories, and emergency response capabilities to enable Oman to manage cyber threats autonomously while safeguarding critical infrastructure. “We are not just operating here in Oman; we are supporting Oman, serving Oman, and growing with Oman,” Zhang affirmed.
These projects align with the Future Fund Oman’s strategy of attracting foreign direct investment into strategic sectors while fostering technology transfer, industrial localization, and job creation. The solar and cybersecurity initiatives illustrate how Oman is leveraging global partnerships to accelerate its transition towards a diversified, knowledge-based economy focused on clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and digital innovation.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent announcements of Chinese investments in solar manufacturing and cybersecurity highlight Oman’s rising global confidence as a hub for sustainable energy and digital resilience. For businesses, this means new opportunities for collaboration and growth, particularly in high-tech sectors that align with Oman Vision 2040. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should focus on strategic partnerships and skill development initiatives, as the evolving market demands a workforce skilled in renewable technologies and cybersecurity solutions.
