National Innovation Centre to Anchor Oman’s Smart Tech Ambitions: What It Means for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman
MUSCAT: The launch of a National Innovation Centre in Oman represents a significant milestone in the country’s technological advancement, establishing Oman as a regional hub for semiconductor design and smart communication technologies, stated Eng Said bin Abdullah Al Mandhari, CEO of ITHCA Group, the technology investment arm of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA).
In an exclusive interview with the Observer following a $20 million investment agreement between ITHCA and US-based Movandi, Al Mandhari emphasized that the initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040’s aspirations to develop a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
“The innovation centre is about more than just technology; it’s about empowering people,” he explained. “Its primary focus will be on cultivating Omani expertise in semiconductor design, wireless communication systems, and AI-powered networks. These sectors form the core of the global digital economy, and Oman aims to be a proactive participant rather than merely a consumer.”
Al Mandhari outlined plans for the centre to collaborate closely with Omani universities, research institutes, and leading international technology companies to provide advanced training for engineers and students. This approach is geared towards building a sustainable talent pipeline capable of designing and co-developing technologies that meet global standards.
“This investment serves two principal purposes: enhancing human capital through education, training, and skills development, and contributing directly to GDP by exporting technologies that are designed and developed within Oman,” he stated.
He also highlighted Oman’s integrated strategy, which connects the ministries of labour, investment, and higher education, creating a conducive ecosystem for foreign technology partners. “We have established an environment where companies can set up their regional headquarters in Oman while benefiting from local expertise and advanced research infrastructure,” Al Mandhari said.
The innovation centre is expected to function as a regional hub, linking the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia to Oman’s expanding semiconductor and communication industry. The project aims to attract leading global companies and investors by leveraging Oman’s strategic location and robust digital infrastructure.
“Our vision is for Oman to emerge as a regional design and research and development (R&D) centre, supporting not only American enterprises but also partners from Asia and Africa,” Al Mandhari noted. “The expertise we bring in will drive innovation, secure patents, and generate high-value exports.”
He further revealed that Movandi, which holds more than 120 patents, will collaborate with Omani engineers to file new patents developed through the Muscat innovation centre, thereby enhancing Oman’s intellectual property portfolio and research output.
Al Mandhari described this initiative as a cornerstone of ITHCA Group’s long-term strategy, under the ownership of OIA, to diversify Oman’s economy and strengthen its digital capabilities. “We are investing in future-oriented industries such as semiconductors, AI, and smart connectivity. The innovation centre will serve as a foundation for national growth in these sectors and will bolster Oman’s reputation as a trusted regional partner in advanced technological fields.”
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The establishment of Oman’s National Innovation Centre signifies a strategic leap toward becoming a regional powerhouse in semiconductor design and smart communication technologies, directly aligning with Oman Vision 2040. For businesses, this opens opportunities in knowledge-driven industries and high-tech exports, while smart investors should consider the growing ecosystem supported by government coordination and global technology partnerships as a fertile ground for innovation and long-term digital economy growth.
