Oman Pushes for Open Data Standards: What It Means for Business Innovation and Investment Opportunities
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology convened a national meeting on open data this Sunday, reinforcing efforts to boost transparency, support data-driven decision-making, and accelerate Oman’s digital transformation agenda.
Held under the patronage of Dr. Nasser bin Rashid Al Maawali, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, the event brought together senior officials and representatives from various government bodies. Discussions focused on expanding public access to data, enhancing institutional capabilities in data management, and promoting the adoption of international standards for transparency and information sharing.
Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies Programme at the Ministry, underscored the pivotal role of the National Open Data Portal. He noted that the portal is a key initiative within the National Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies Programme, which the Council of Ministers approved in September 2024.
Al Alawi emphasized that the programme entails strategic initiatives aimed at integrating and localizing artificial intelligence technologies across economic and developmental sectors, developing national expertise, empowering AI-driven startups, and fostering scientific research. He stressed the importance of robust governance to ensure the sustainable growth of this rapidly evolving field and alignment with Oman’s broader digital transformation objectives.
Azan bin Qais Al Kindi, CEO of Rahal, outlined his company’s role in advancing the National Open Data Portal. He highlighted improvements designed to enhance user experience, facilitate efficient data exchange, and guarantee the publication of reliable government data in compliance with global standards.
Several government institutions received recognition for their vital contributions to the portal, notably for maintaining high-quality, transparent datasets. Presentations from participating entities shared experiences in open data management, spotlighting best practices and addressing ongoing challenges in keeping information systems current and accessible.
The Ministry also reviewed its evaluation criteria for government entities within the digital transformation framework, aiming to promote stronger adherence to data publication standards and continuous performance improvement.
The meeting concluded with an open forum involving representatives from multiple government bodies, discussing ways to strengthen cooperation, increase the quantity of published datasets, and better support decision-makers, researchers, and entrepreneurs who depend on accurate and accessible data. — ONA
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s push for enhanced open data through the National Open Data Portal signifies a strategic leap towards digital transparency and AI-driven innovation. This creates immense opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to leverage reliable data for smarter decision-making and developing AI-powered solutions. Smart investors should now consider focusing on data-centric tech startups and sectors poised to benefit from Oman’s accelerating digital transformation agenda.
