Muscat – Omani technology startups are calling for organisation of more technology shows and exhibitions to provide them a platform to reach wider audience and benefit from the knowledge exchange.

The 33rd edition of the COMEX Global Technology Show has become a beacon for Omani technology startups, offering them a prestigious platform to showcase their innovations.

Entrepreneurs – attending the four-day event coming to an end on Thursday – have expressed a unanimous desire for more such technology shows, which they believe are crucial for showcasing their products and expanding their reach.

Organised by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) and OITE Group, the event has drawn considerable praise from the local startup community for its role in enhancing visibility and fostering industry connections.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Mohammed al Zarei, founder and CEO of Shuarkom, emphasised the significance of the exhibition in providing exposure to Omani startups. 

Zarei advocated for more frequent and longer events to capture a broader audience. 

“Our platform is designed to bring together seasoned experts and dynamic new talents to tackle challenges in ICT and business sectors,” he stated, underscoring the initiative’s goal to drive innovation.

Reem al Shamsi, representing Yesser company, highlighted how the exhibition serves as a vital link to major technology firms, allowing emerging companies to learn and grow from established expertise. 

Yesser focuses on developing solutions for the food industry, specifically targeting administrative challenges in handling complaints.

Yasmine Abdel Mohsen, Project Manager at Rawaq al IBtikar, pointed out the advantages of the show in promoting virtual and augmented reality technologies. 

“The exhibition is an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate our innovative approaches and seek investment and partnerships,” she noted, expressing her company’s aim to use virtual reality to promote Omani culture and heritage innovatively.

Hanaa al Harrasiya from Madad Financial Services discussed how their participation was for boosting awareness about their financial solutions tailored for consumers and merchants. 

Similarly, Abdullah al Maamari, a resident of Seeb and an event attendee, appreciated the exhibition for enabling direct interaction with consumers and facilitating knowledge exchange with tech experts worldwide.

An official from MTCIT announced that 133 emerging Omani technology companies participated in this year’s event, selected based on their market readiness and potential through programmes like Jadara and Nomu. 

The event not only aims to spotlight these companies but also strives to help them discover business opportunities, forge local and regional partnerships and promote locally developed tech products.

This strategic initiative by the ministry supports the broader goal of nurturing the tech ecosystem in Oman, aligning with national objectives to foster innovation and economic diversification.