Oman Plans 10% GDP Boost from Digital Economy by 2040

• Program Structure: Focuses on three core pillars to integrate digital technologies across government, businesses, and society.

• Current Impact: Digital economy expected to account for 3% of GDP by end of 2025, with plans for phased implementation.

• Global Rankings: Oman holds 45th in AI readiness, 41st in e-Government, 1st in cybersecurity, targeting top 20 worldwide.

Oman launches National Digital Economy Programme to hit 10% GDP target by 2040 via AI and digital initiatives. Discover key pillars, AI projects, and global ambitions for a thriving digital future. Explore now!

What is Oman’s National Digital Economy Programme?

Oman’s National Digital Economy Programme is a strategic initiative designed to build a robust digital economy aligned with Oman Vision 2040. It emphasizes three main pillars: digital government, business digitization, and digital society, with the goal of increasing the digital sector’s GDP contribution to 10% by 2040. The program unfolds in four stages, including digital government integration and exporting digital services, positioning Oman as a leader in regional innovation.

How is Oman Advancing AI and Digital Technologies?

Oman has made significant strides in AI and digital technologies through dedicated programs and infrastructure. In 2023, the country launched the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies, which drives AI adoption across sectors, localizes technologies, and establishes governance frameworks. Currently, it oversees 32 projects aimed at enhancing AI readiness, supporting startups, and boosting research output. A flagship effort, the AI Economics Initiative, explores AI’s economic potential, while projects like Mu’een AI—an Omani language model for government use—and the AI Studio empower developers and innovators. The National Open Data Portal further promotes data accessibility for public benefit.

To foster global collaboration, Oman partnered with the World Economic Forum to establish the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, focusing on ethical technology deployment. The country also introduced a National Policy for the Safe and Ethical Use of AI, supported by an AI Experts Committee comprising representatives from public, private, and academic sectors to ensure responsible oversight.

Infrastructure developments underscore Oman’s commitment to sustainability. The Oman Digital Triangle hosts AI data centers powered by green energy, reducing environmental impact. The Green AI Alliance unites 34 companies and institutions to advance sustainable AI investments. Additionally, the Artificial Intelligence Zone near Muscat International Airport provides incentives to attract regional AI firms, solidifying Oman’s role as a Middle East digital hub.

These efforts reflect Oman’s broader digital progress. According to Dr. Ali bin Amer al Shaithani, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the digital economy is projected to contribute about 3% to GDP by the end of 2025. Oman’s global standings include 45th in AI readiness, 41st in e-Government development, first in cybersecurity readiness, and 50th in network readiness, with ambitions to climb into the top 20 across these metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key pillars of Oman’s digital economy strategy?

The strategy rests on three pillars: digital government for efficient public services, business digitization to modernize enterprises, and digital society to enhance citizen engagement. These elements aim to integrate technology comprehensively, supporting Oman’s goal of a 10% GDP contribution from the digital sector by 2040 through targeted programs and investments.

How does Oman’s AI program support economic growth?

Oman’s AI program, including the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence, promotes adoption in key sectors like healthcare, education, and finance. It runs 32 projects focused on startups, research, and infrastructure, such as the AI Economics Initiative, helping to create jobs, attract investments, and align with global standards for ethical AI use.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Pillars Drive Growth: The program’s focus on digital government, business, and society will elevate GDP contributions to 10% by 2040, building on current 3% projections.
• AI Innovations Lead the Way: Initiatives like Mu’een AI and the Green AI Alliance highlight sustainable tech adoption, with 32 ongoing projects enhancing readiness and research.
• Global Ambitions: Aiming for top 20 rankings in AI and e-Government, Oman leverages partnerships like the World Economic Forum to position itself as a regional digital leader.

Conclusion

Oman’s National Digital Economy Programme and AI advancements represent a forward-thinking approach to economic diversification, integrating digital government, business digitization, and societal benefits to achieve a 10% GDP target by 2040. With strong infrastructure like the AI Zone and ethical policies in place, Oman is poised for sustained growth in the digital landscape. As global digital transformation accelerates, stakeholders should monitor these developments for opportunities in AI and advanced technologies.