Muscat – Oman has ranked fourth worldwide among developing economies in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) for greenfield information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure projects between 2020 and 2024, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) World Investment Report 2025.
The report highlights Oman’s emergence as a regional hub for digital infrastructure, innovation, and emerging technologies. This notable ranking reflects the sultanate’s success in drawing significant digital-related investments, surpassing several advanced economies.
The Government Communication Centre disclosed that Oman attracted US$1.7 billion in foreign investment for digital infrastructure during this period. Investments in the digital economy nearly tripled, driven by the National Digital Economy Programme and broader national efforts to transform Oman into a knowledge-based economy.
Mexico tops the list with US$5.2 billion in investment, followed by Nigeria (US$4.3 billion), Malaysia (US$2.2 billion), Oman (US$1.7 billion), and Brazil (US$1.6 billion).
This achievement underscores Oman’s strategic vision outlined in Oman Vision 2040, focused on economic diversification and enhancing the country’s appeal as a technology-driven investment destination. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of national policies aimed at improving digital readiness and fostering a competitive, innovation-led investment environment.
In 2024, Oman launched the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies, set to run through 2026. The initiative aims to expand the ICT sector’s role in the economy and align national capabilities with global AI advancements.
Key features of the programme include the introduction of AI and data analysis into school curricula to equip youth with essential digital skills and the development of a national open data platform to support entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers.
Additionally, Oman plans to establish a national AI research centre to advance scientific inquiry and an AI studio to provide sector-specific solutions for professionals and institutions.
The programme aims to elevate Oman’s standing in the global Government Readiness Index for AI and increase the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 2% in 2021 to 10% by 2040, reinforcing Oman’s commitment to building a resilient, technology-driven economy.
