Shaping Salalah Port’s Future with AI and Green Fuels: How Smart Innovation is Boosting Oman’s Trade and Investment Opportunities
SALALAH — The future of logistics and energy competitiveness in Oman hinges on how swiftly companies embrace artificial intelligence, digitalisation, and green fuel technologies, emphasized Ahmed Al Burami, Chief Financial Officer of OQ Base Industries (OQBI).
Speaking at the Middle East Transport Forum in Salalah, Al Burami highlighted that access to data is no longer the primary challenge; instead, the critical factor is the speed and effectiveness with which organisations adopt and apply that data.
“Knowledge is freely available everywhere. The real challenge lies in utilising it effectively and selecting the right systems to adopt more rapidly than others,” Al Burami told delegates. He noted that OQBI and the Port of Salalah have already implemented various operational and maintenance systems but stressed the need for further integration, quantification, and automation to meet future demand.
He also underlined the importance of cybersecurity as a cornerstone of digital transformation. “Cybersecurity is vital when sharing information across partners. Since tomorrow’s risks are unpredictable, flexibility and readiness are essential,” he stated.
Looking forward, Al Burami highlighted the increasing significance of green hydrogen and ammonia in the shipping and energy sectors. He revealed that OQ and its partners are investigating how to upgrade Salalah’s logistics infrastructure to support alternative fuels, aligning with global decarbonisation efforts.
He affirmed that OQ is committed to ensuring Oman’s ports are prepared to accommodate hydrogen- and ammonia-powered vessels as they begin operating in regional shipping lanes. These remarks are in line with Oman’s broader Oman Vision 2040 strategy, which aims to bolster logistics competitiveness, diversify the economy, and position the Sultanate as a centre for sustainable energy and trade.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s future logistics and energy sectors hinge on rapid adoption of AI, digitalisation, and green fuel technologies, offering businesses a prime opportunity to lead in innovation and sustainability. However, the increasing reliance on interconnected digital systems highlights cybersecurity as a critical risk factor that companies must prioritize to safeguard operations. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should focus on integrating advanced technologies and green infrastructure, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 to capitalize on the nation’s shift toward sustainable trade and energy hubs.
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