Muscat, Oman — Oman has announced the establishment of a National Innovation Centre, a landmark project set to position the Sultanate as a regional hub for semiconductor design and smart communication technologies, according to Eng. Said bin Abdullah Al Mandhari, CEO of ITHCA Group, the technology investment arm of the Oman Investment Authority (OIA).
The announcement follows a $20 million strategic investment agreement between ITHCA and US-based Movandi, a leader in semiconductor and wireless communication solutions. The centre represents a major step toward realizing Oman Vision 2040, which aims to build a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
“The innovation centre is not only about technology — it is about people,” said Al Mandhari. “It will focus on developing Omani capabilities in semiconductor design, wireless systems, and AI-driven networks — the backbone of the global digital economy.”
Building a Knowledge and Innovation Ecosystem
The centre will collaborate with Omani universities, research institutes, and global technology firms to deliver advanced training programs for engineers and students. The goal is to create a sustainable national talent pipeline capable of designing and developing globally competitive technologies.
According to Al Mandhari, the initiative will achieve two primary outcomes:
- Strengthening human capital through specialized training and skills development.
- Contributing directly to GDP by exporting homegrown technologies.
Oman’s coordinated approach — linking the ministries of labour, investment, and higher education — is creating a supportive environment for foreign tech investors. “We have designed an ecosystem that enables companies to base their regional operations in Oman, leveraging our research infrastructure and local expertise,” Al Mandhari said.
A Regional Innovation Gateway
Strategically located between the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, Oman aims to leverage the new centre to attract global companies and investors. The project will form part of a broader regional innovation hub connecting Oman’s growing semiconductor and communications ecosystem.
Movandi, which holds more than 120 international patents, will collaborate with Omani engineers to develop and register new patents through the Muscat-based centre — strengthening Oman’s intellectual property portfolio and enhancing its global R&D standing.
Foundation for Future Industries
Al Mandhari emphasized that the initiative aligns with ITHCA Group’s strategy under OIA to diversify the national economy and advance digital capabilities. “We are investing in the industries of the future — semiconductors, AI, and smart connectivity. This innovation centre will be the foundation for national growth in these sectors and reinforce Oman’s reputation as a trusted partner in advanced technologies,” he said.
