Salalah – A conference on design thinking that opened in Salalah on Tuesday explored how artificial intelligence can enhance problem-solving processes and support the development of innovative solutions across institutions.

Held under the theme ‘Redesigning the Future: Design Thinking to Solve Contemporary Challenges’, the two-day event has been organised by Ministry of Labour in cooperation with Al Maraji Establishment for Organising Conferences and Seminars. It brings together executive leaders from government and private sector institutions, along with experts in design, public administration and innovation.

The conference was inaugurated by Ahmed bin Mohsen al Ghassani, Chairman of Dhofar Municipality, who also honoured speakers and key contributors.

Design thinking – a set of cognitive, strategic and practical procedures used by designers in the process of designing – was the focus of multiple sessions aimed at demonstrating its application in creating effective and sustainable solutions. Participants discussed how empathy, creativity and experimentation underpin the methodology’s potential in driving institutional improvement.

Ahmed bin Awfait al Maashani, Director General of Al Maraji Establishment, described the conference as a platform for sharing expertise, supporting innovation and enhancing cooperation among stakeholders. He added that design thinking has emerged as a useful approach for addressing challenges through structured creativity.

Ali bin Saeed Akaak, consultant and academic trainer, said the conference themes reflect the diversity and integration required in applying design thinking across sectors. He noted that the sessions are designed to equip decision-makers with tools relevant for institutional development and modern governance.

Topics covered during the conference include the role of innovation in supporting social and cultural change, tools for audience analysis, and strategies for transforming ideas into practical business models. Participants will also explore themes such as sustainable design, creative marketing, product and service quality, quality management frameworks, and international best practices.