Muscat – Oman continues to make significant strides in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its governance framework, securing the 45th position globally in the 2024 Government AI Readiness Index published by Oxford Insights, a London-based consulting firm. The sultanate maintained its position as fifth in the Middle East, reflecting its progress in leveraging AI for innovation and effective public sector governance. The index evaluates nations based on their infrastructure, governance and ability to deploy AI technologies in public services.

In September 2024, Oman launched its National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies to enhance the role of information and communications technology in the economy as part of efforts to achieve Oman Vision 2040 objectives. Spanning from 2024 to 2026, the programme includes a series of initiatives aimed at aligning the nation with global advancements in AI.

A key feature of the programme is development of a national open data platform to support entrepreneurs, investors and decision-makers by providing easy access to valuable data. Establishment of a national research centre for AI will assist researchers and academics in exploring cutting-edge technologies. Furthermore, a collaborative AI ‘studio’ is set to provide tech solutions to specialists and organisations.

The programme aspires to improve Oman’s ranking in the global Government AI Readiness Index and aims to increase the digital economy’s contribution to the country’s GDP from 2% in 2021 to 10% by 2040.