Muscat – The highly anticipated ‘Oman AI Summit,’ organised by Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in collaboration with Tazeezai and Future Event, opened on Monday under the auspices of H H Sayyid Kamil bin Fahd al Said, Secretary-General of Council of Ministers.

The two-day event has drawn participation of over 200 artificial intelligence specialists and advanced technology experts from across the globe, alongside more than 40 eminent speakers. The summit’s primary goal is to streamline investment and business establishment processes for foreign entities, thereby boosting investments in the AI sector and spotlighting Oman’s competitive investment opportunities.

A key focus of the summit is on facilitating development and innovation in AI, encouraging new solutions and showcasing the latest technological advancements and strategies for AI investment.

Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of Board of Directors of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), emphasised the summit’s role in shaping a future-oriented, smart digital environment and sustainable technical wealth in Oman. It aims to bolster the innovation, nurture skilled professionals and enhance national products in AI and future technologies, further consolidating Oman’s global standing in the field of AI, he said.

In his address, Rawas highlighted the summit as a platform for AI professionals, executives and enthusiasts to exchange ideas and insights on AI applications in everyday life. Strategic partnerships, underlining the concerted efforts of both public and private sectors, will enhance the knowledge economy. He added that the private sector’s role in fostering technological industries will create new industrial sectors reliant on AI.

The summit also underscores the role of AI in solving complex problems, enhancing productivity and aiding in decision-making processes that promote business sustainability. These align with OCCI’s strategic vision to support economic diversification, attract investments and expand business opportunities in line with Oman Vision 2040, added Rawas.

Participants include experts from Oman’s public and private sectors, and international AI and technology specialists. The summit will delve into three main areas: ‘Artificial Intelligence and Governments’, focusing on AI’s role in national security, cybersecurity and government support for AI startups; ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Business Environment’, discussing AI in legal legislation, its impact on the digital economy and business innovation; and ‘Artificial Intelligence and the Economy’, addressing AI’s implications in green hydrogen, a sustainable environment and logistics transformation.

Notable presentations will cover AI in healthcare, data analysis for improved decision-making and the global future of higher education in the technology era. An exhibition featuring a plethora of AI technologies and solutions, presented by a diverse group of AI experts and engineers, will be held alongside the summit.