Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Thawani Pay became Oman’s first fintech licensed by Visa to issue credit cards, marking a major step in digital payments innovation and aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s financial inclusion goals.
Experts in Oman warn that while digital tools strengthen connectivity, families must balance screen use with cultural awareness to preserve traditional values and healthy communication.
Sohar International launched Oman’s first corporate mobile app with salary payment capability, empowering SMEs and corporates with full financial control via a secure, mobile-first platform aligned with Vision 2040.
Oman’s foodtech startup KitchenomiKs raised USD 6.7M led by Jasoor Ventures to expand satellite kitchens and enhance its KiKsIQ platform. Founded in 2022, the company runs 13 virtual brands and aims to build a regional hybrid food ecosystem linking cloud kitchens, smart outlets, and enterprise F&B services.
Oman’s MTCIT has completed 25 projects under the Tahawul digital transformation programme, including the Unified Government Services Portal, Open Data Platform, and Thiqa Trust Services. The initiatives have enhanced transparency, digital governance, and service accessibility across 48 government entities.
The Oman Research and Education Network Technology Summit (OTS25) spotlighted AI’s transformative potential in education, research, and economic growth. Hosted under ministerial patronage, the event emphasized ethical innovation, collaboration, and capacity building to align with Oman’s national AI strategy. The summit concluded with new partnerships, research initiatives, and recognition of AI solutions advancing Oman’s knowledge economy.
Oman Airports, in partnership with Huawei, has launched the Intelligent Campus Showcase at Muscat International Airport. The initiative enhances passenger experience through high-speed connectivity, smart surveillance, and AI-driven analytics. Supporting Oman Vision 2040, the project establishes the airport as a model for digital and sustainable aviation infrastructure in the region.
Oman Data Park, in partnership with ITHCA and Oracle, has launched the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure Secondary Dedicated Region in Ibri, creating Oman’s first dual sovereign cloud setup. The region mirrors ODP’s primary Muscat facility and provides over 200 OCI services, enabling AI, analytics, and disaster recovery solutions. The initiative supports Oman Vision 2040 by enhancing data sovereignty, business continuity, and the nation’s role as a regional digital hub.
Oman’s TRA has begun pilot trials for its Central Number Portability System, allowing users to switch between mobile and landline operators within minutes while retaining their numbers. The system, now in its testing phase, aims to simplify switching, enhance competition, and support Oman’s telecom digital transformation. Full rollout will follow the temporary suspension of the old portability service announced in August.
Oman’s OTS25 Tech Summit spotlighted AI’s growing role in education, research, and national innovation. The two-day event featured experts from Oman, Saudi Arabia, and abroad, highlighting ethical AI, talent development, and cross-sector collaboration as key pillars of Oman’s digital transformation journey.