Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed its commitment to leading in the digital world through a two-day workshop titled “Enhancing and Regulating Connectivity,” organized by Crowe, a leading auditing and consulting firm. The event, held at the Hormuz Grand Hotel, concluded on Wednesday with key insights from industry experts and regulatory authorities.
The workshop drew significant participation from representatives of the Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRA), the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), Oman Broadband, Omantel, Ooredoo, and Vodafone. Omar Al Qatabi, Vice President of TRA, graced the event as the guest of honor.
Davis Kallukaran, managing partner of Crowe Oman, emphasized the transformative impact of digital technology on society and the economy. “We are transitioning to a world where advanced services and big data shape our understanding and interactions. This transformation will require substantial financial resources, stringent oversight, and collective determination to position Oman at the forefront of the digital era,” he stated.
The workshop addressed critical topics such as the expansion of mobile telecommunications infrastructure, including 5G, cloud systems, and data analytics, and the financial implications of these developments. Davis Kallukaran highlighted the challenges in financial measurement and accounting within these rapidly evolving sectors.
Keynote speaker Anna Coast, a finance professional specializing in regulatory consultations, discussed the complexities of regulatory frameworks in adapting to new communication products and connectivity solutions. “It’s vital for stakeholders to grasp the evolving cost dynamics and viability of different technology solutions as business models continue to transform,” she noted.
Michael Byrne, an expert in regulation and competition law, explored the role of regulators in adapting to changes at both national and international levels. Additionally, Prof. Hanna Rothkaehl, a senior space scientist from Poland, delved into the impacts of space weather on connectivity, emphasizing the relevance of space research to telecommunications.
Paul Kallukaran, Head of Technology at Crowe Oman, expressed gratitude towards the speakers and attendees for their valuable contributions, which enriched the discussions and outcomes of the workshop. The event successfully highlighted Oman’s proactive approach to embracing and shaping the future of digital connectivity and governance.
