Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Oman’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth has launched a Digital Innovation Award to encourage libraries to adopt advanced technologies and improve digital services. The initiative aims to modernize library operations, promote innovative digital solutions and strengthen access to knowledge as part of the country’s broader digital transformation efforts.
Oman’s digital economy is entering a high-growth phase, contributing approximately RO 800 million to the GDP as of 2023. This progress stems from the National Digital Economy Programme (2021–2025), which focused on foundational infrastructure, including 100% residential high-speed broadband coverage and significant investments in AI (RO 79m+).
Oman has digitized 2,000+ government services, driving a 78% surge in digital transactions for 2025. Ranking 18th globally for digital growth, the Sultanate aims for the digital economy to reach 10% of GDP by 2040. This transformation, central to Oman Vision 2040, emphasizes ICT investment and national workforce development.
Oman’s MTCIT has launched its 2026-2030 digital economy roadmap, focusing on regional transformation centers, national AI platforms, and local cloud infrastructure manufacturing. Building on 2,200 already digitized services, the plan aims to enhance financial independence and technical sovereignty while driving the digital sector toward a 10% GDP contribution by 2040.
Tech Oman has launched the TechWoman initiative to support and connect women in the technology field through free workshops, networking events, and leadership programs aimed at both Omani and expatriate professionals.
Oman launches TechWoman initiative to support women in technology through networking events, training programmes and knowledge-sharing platforms aimed at strengthening the country’s tech ecosystem.
Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals conducted field visits with mining companies to review digital service performance under the Tahawul programme. Feedback on licensing, online platforms, and service timelines will inform phased updates aimed at improving efficiency, transparency, and private sector engagement in the mining sector.
LYNEports and AVAS have partnered to deploy AI-driven digital twin technology for vertiport planning and advanced air mobility projects in Oman. The collaboration supports Vision 2040 and strengthens national readiness for emerging aerial mobility infrastructure.
Oman’s central bank has introduced formal regulations for Buy Now, Pay Later services, strengthening oversight of the growing instalment-based financing market while supporting responsible fintech innovation.
Oman has achieved full internet coverage across schools, with over 97% connected via fibre and 5G and 50 remote schools linked through Starlink. Rapid growth in fibre and fixed 5G subscriptions reflects the country’s broader digital infrastructure expansion.