Muscat – The sultanate is set to become a hub for technologies of the future, including robotics and artificial intelligence, with the launch of the largest robotics park in the Middle East soon.

Authorities have allocated 3.2mn sqm of land for the one-of-its-kind Sandy Valley Robotics Park, which will not only host a number of robotics companies but also attract innovators and those looking for entertainment.

Driven by the objective of creating a better society through research and education, the park will open its doors for youth inventors and innovators and entrepreneurs in the field of robotics, while promoting startups in Oman.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Dr Biju John, chairman and managing director of Sandy Valley Robotics, said, “The park will be the pride of Oman. Set to come up in Rusayl Industrial City, the first phase will spread over 864 acres of land on scenic hills.” A land survey is underway for the
project.

John believes the park will start a robotics revolution in the region, particularly in Oman, and generate close to 35,000 jobs for Omanis.

“Initially, the project was planned in Dubai, but then we found Oman to be a more suitable location. Omanis themselves are keen on technology and the youth here are actively engaged in 4IR technologies.”

The project will include a five-star hotel, a theme park, cable cars, a robotics research institute and a robotics themed shopping centre.

“The park will be a community of people who seek innovation in robotics. We will support the Omanisation process by providing training to the youth in AI and robotics,” John informed.

“Omanis are friendly, hardworking and futuristic. We invite companies and entrepreneurs to join in the robotics revolution which is likely to change the future of human beings.”

The park will support companies in research and development by providing modern facilities and offering sustainable technology programmes. “The park will also promote Omani startups in the field of robotics,” John added.

The park is being supported by several companies based in the USA, UK, Germany, Japan and Taiwan, among others.

John is confident that following opening of the park, “Oman will be the focal point for the entire world for companies that work in robotics”.
@shadadm