The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MoTCIT), in partnership with the Ministry of Economy, has introduced a series of artificial intelligence (AI) pilot projects across key sectors as part of the "AI Economics" initiative under Oman’s National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies.
As outlined in MoTCIT’s 2024 annual report, this initiative aims to integrate AI tools into priority sectors such as healthcare, energy, investment, public administration, and tourism. The primary goal is to enhance economic diversification, strengthen national digital capabilities, and support the long-term objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
The recently launched projects aim to enhance decision-making, service delivery, and operational efficiency in both the public and private sectors. Each initiative demonstrates the government's strategic goal of establishing Oman as a regional leader in the digital economy.
A key initiative is the National Center for Virtual Health, which utilizes AI to offer remote specialized healthcare services. This project seeks to increase access to medical care, especially in remote regions, while alleviating the strain on existing physical health infrastructure.
In the energy and natural resources sector, the Geological Data Analysis project utilizes AI to improve the precision of identifying oil, gas, and mineral deposits, as well as to find potential sites for renewable energy development.
Additionally, the government has established an Environmental Information Bank that integrates AI and blockchain technologies to create a secure and intelligent system for managing environmental data. This platform aims to facilitate more informed policymaking in areas such as climate change, conservation, and pollution control.
In the media industry, the Ain Media Platform has been launched to enhance the quality and personalization of media services for users. This platform employs AI algorithms to optimize content delivery and customize experiences according to user preferences.
Another important initiative is the Investment Data Dashboard, an AI-driven interactive tool that allows for real-time analysis of investment flows and economic indicators. This dashboard aims to promote evidence-based policymaking and attract foreign direct investment by enhancing data transparency.
To bolster tourism and transportation, the Smart Gates project in Dhofar has been implemented to track vehicle movements, congestion levels, and tourist numbers, especially during peak seasons. This initiative is anticipated to improve traffic management and enable more effective planning for tourism services in the southern governorate.
In the area of public sector reform, the Smart Administration program is focused on automating administrative processes to enhance efficiency and responsiveness in government services. This project aligns with national efforts to digitize service delivery and minimize bureaucratic delays.
The Training Workshop Management System is an AI-driven platform aimed at enhancing content organization and assessing the effectiveness of capacity-building programs. It will deliver real-time feedback and analytics to improve training results within government institutions.
To foster innovation and entrepreneurship, the government has launched a Support Programme for Promising Omani Companies. This initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Promising Omani Startups Programme, provides focused financial and technical support to startups that are creating AI-based solutions.
These projects collectively represent a unified national strategy aimed at leveraging the economic potential of AI and advanced digital technologies. By promoting innovation, improving institutional efficiency, and facilitating smarter public services, the AI Economics initiative is set to aid Oman in its shift toward a knowledge-based economy.
As the initiative moves forward, the incorporation of AI into economic planning and service delivery is anticipated to create new opportunities for growth, investment, and competitiveness. These advancements strengthen the Sultanate’s goal of becoming a leader in digital transformation within the region.
