The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT) in Oman has established a national committee of artificial intelligence (AI) specialists from both the public and private sectors to advance the country’s AI agenda. This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the sultanate’s broader digital transformation strategy.
The newly formed committee is tasked with guiding national efforts to integrate AI into key sectors such as education, healthcare, logistics, finance, and public services. As a national think tank, it will provide expert insights on emerging AI technologies and explore their practical applications to address pressing challenges in the sultanate.
A ministry official highlighted that the committee’s responsibilities include advising the government on AI policies, developing education and training programs, and reviewing existing AI-related legislation. The committee will also propose measures to enhance Omani expertise in AI, suggest updates to regulatory frameworks, and monitor global AI developments to assess their potential impact on Oman.
A major component of the committee’s work will focus on the ethical aspects of AI, particularly guidelines for transparency, accountability, and data protection. These guidelines will reflect Omani cultural values while adhering to international standards.
The committee is also expected to shape frameworks for AI education and research collaborations with international institutions, while identifying sectors with high potential for AI-driven economic diversification. Additionally, it will prepare strategic roadmaps to foster public-private partnerships aimed at accelerating AI adoption in Oman.
Part of its mandate will include evaluating potential risks, such as algorithmic bias and misuse of personal data, to ensure responsible AI innovation and safeguard society.
Chaired by Dr. Ahmed Saeed al Ma’ashari, Assistant Professor at the College of Engineering in Sultan Qaboos University, the committee’s members include prominent figures from Oman’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Central Bank of Oman, Invospark, and various other organizations, along with representatives from MTCIT.
The formation of this committee underscores Oman’s commitment to making AI a key pillar of its National Digital Economy Programme. MTCIT aims to unify the country’s AI efforts under a coordinated national strategy to ensure Oman is well-positioned to capitalize on future technologies while responsibly managing associated risks.
