Muscat – Oman is ranked first in West Asia and ninth globally in the 2024 Open Data Inventory (ODIN) ranking, an independent body recognised by United Nations Statistical Commission.

The sultanate rose ten places from its 2022 position, moving from 19th out of 195 countries to 9th out of 197 this year. Oman scored 84 points in 2024, up from 74 in the previous edition.

Globally, Malaysia topped the list, followed by Singapore, Finland, Denmark and Poland. In the GCC, the UAE ranked 11th, followed by Saudi Arabia (41st), Bahrain (58th), Kuwait (113th) and Qatar (116th).

ODIN evaluates completeness of national statistical data and whether countries meet international standards for data openness. Oman’s overall score includes a data coverage subscore of 70 – placing it 29th globally – and a data openness subscore of 96, ranked third worldwide.

Oman received a full score of 100 in several categories, including population and vital statistics, health facilities, international trade, and money and banking.

The sultanate was cited as a regional example in building and disseminating official data systems in line with international standards.

In a statement, the National Centre for Statistics and Information said it would continue supporting open data policies to enhance data readiness for research, planning and evidence-based decision-making in line with Oman’s ongoing national development efforts.