Oman Advances in Global AI Leadership with Strategic Initiatives

The Sultanate of Oman is at the forefront of digital transformation, prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its economic strategy. Climbing five spots to rank 45th in the Government AI Readiness Index for 2024, Oman is successfully integrating AI into multiple sectors with significant outcomes.

Key contributors include the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, which has pioneered AI applications across agriculture, urban planning, air quality control, and drones. Concurrently, the Ministry of Higher Education has launched initiatives that align AI research with national priorities, emphasizing education's intersection with AI through smart models and data analytics.

Significant investments underscore Oman's commitment. Dr. Salem bin Humaid Al-Shuaili announced a dedicated budget of OMR25 million over two years to accelerate AI progress. The ambitious plans include developing 'Oman GPT' for public sector efficiency and creating Oman Studio, an AI hub. By 2025, the establishment of a Fourth Industrial Revolution Centre aims to solidify Oman's position as a regional leader in AI development.

(With inputs from agencies.)