Key Insights from OCCI Forum: How Omani Tech and Telecom Startups are Shaping Business Opportunities
MUSCAT, DEC 24 – The second CEOs’ Forum for startups in the technology and telecommunications sectors was held on December 23 in Muscat, presided over by Abdulsalam bin Mohammed al Murshidi, President of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA).
Organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), the event gathered senior government officials, CEOs from tech companies, and digital economy experts, all aimed at fostering growth in the technology sector and enhancing Oman’s knowledge-based economy.
Shaikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI’s Board of Directors, underscored the forum’s importance. "This event reflects our belief in the technology sector as a key driver of economic growth. The digital economy has become essential for diversifying income sources and boosting the private sector’s competitiveness," he stated.
Al Rawas emphasized the necessity of digital transformation, saying it is critical for establishing a competitive economy that creates quality opportunities for Omani youth.
Eng Ibrahim bin Abdullah al Hawsani, an OCCI Board Member and Chairman of the Digital Economy and Artificial Intelligence Committee, also spoke at the forum. He noted, "We have gathered leaders from a sector that is crucial for economic growth. This meeting follows our previous discussions, reinforcing the need for direct dialogue and impactful partnerships to enhance Oman’s technology ecosystem."
He further highlighted that His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has repeatedly stressed the need for a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy, urging acceleration in digital transformation and investment in advanced technologies and artificial intelligence as keys to economic diversification and competitiveness.
Al Hawsani pointed out that Oman ranks 41st globally in the United Nations E-Government Development Index, 35th in AI readiness, and 50th in network readiness, showcasing the nation’s advancement in cybersecurity and technology.
The forum hosted two working papers on artificial intelligence. The first, by Dr. Saeed bin Salem Jaaboub, Vice President for Postgraduate Studies, Research, and Innovation at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, was titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Sectors: Transformations in Intellectual Property Models and Economies.” The second was presented by Dr. Rami Bassam Shaheen, an Advanced AI Technology Consultant, discussing “Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.”
Additionally, two panel discussions took place: the first on “The Role of Technology Companies in Accelerating Digitalisation of Services and Developing Innovative Solutions,” and the second, “The Leader’s Chair and Dialogues with the Elite.” Concurrently, a startup corner showcased various companies presenting innovative technology projects.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent CEOs’ Forum emphasizes the critical role of the technology sector in driving economic growth in Oman, presenting significant opportunities for businesses looking to innovate and invest in digital solutions. However, with the push for digital transformation comes the risk of falling behind if companies do not adapt quickly to emerging technologies and trends, particularly in artificial intelligence. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should focus on collaborative partnerships and prioritize agility to leverage the growing emphasis on a knowledge-based economy.
