Muscat – Artificial intelligence is becoming a regular part of life for many Omanis, with around 68% of citizens surveyed saying they use AI tools daily or several times a week. However, concerns over privacy and gaps in public understanding remain, highlighting the need for greater digital awareness, according to a new survey by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

The survey, conducted from May 17 to 25, 2026, covered 2,000 Omani citizens aged 18 and older across the sultanate. It examined public awareness of AI, usage patterns, perceived benefits, associated risks and confidence in information generated by the technology.

While 41% believed it had become part of their lives, 43% reported direct experience with AI tools and applications.

Usage was higher among respondents with greater educational attainment. The survey found that 83% of those educated beyond general education reported using AI, compared with 55% of employed respondents and 63% of government-sector workers.

Conversational AI tools were the most popular, cited by 89% respondents. Smart features on mobile phones ranked second at 53%, followed by applications that generate content and other outputs at 51%. Survey respondents could select more than one option.

Saving time and effort was the main reason for using AI, cited by 53% respondents. Another 20% said they used it to learn and improve their understanding, while 16.6% reported that it helped improve the quality of their work and results. Smaller proportions cited decision-making and entertainment.

Daily AI usage varied considerably across Oman’s governorates, with Al Wusta recording the highest rate at 62%, according to NCSI data.

North Batinah ranked second at 39%, followed by Muscat and Dhahirah, both at 37%. Musandam and Dhofar recorded 32% each, while South Batinah and North Sharqiyah registered 30%.

Buraimi recorded a daily usage rate of 23%, while Dakhliyah had the lowest rate at 21%.

Privacy remains a concern

Despite the growing use of AI, the survey highlighted concerns over privacy and data protection. Although users expressed worries about data leaks and the misuse of personal information, many continued to share personal details and photographs through AI applications, pointing to a gap between awareness of risks and actual online behaviour.

Respondents identified training programmes, community awareness initiatives, clear legislation and regulations, and official tools for safe use as measures that could encourage wider and more effective adoption.

The survey also points to the need to help users verify AI-generated information, safeguard personal data and better understand the technology’s capabilities and limitations.