Oman Unveils New Programme to Strengthen Digital Sovereignty and Tech Innovation
It aims to empower Omani technology companies to develop locally built solutions that are scalable and capable of competing in regional and global markets.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has launched the SAS Excellence Initiative under the SAS Programme for Technology Companies, as part of its efforts to strengthen digital sovereignty, localise technology, and foster a value-added digital industry in the Sultanate of Oman. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Labour, the Oman Investment Authority, the Authority for Projects, Tenders and Local Content, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), and the Development Bank. It aims to empower Omani technology companies to develop locally built solutions that are scalable and capable of competing in regional and global markets. The initiative focuses on enhancing local digital self-sufficiency by supporting national technology companies in developing and owning value-added digital products and services. It also seeks to strengthen digital sovereignty, promote local content, and build a strong base of Omani companies capable of competing in regional and international markets.
Localising Technology and Enhancing Digital Sovereignty
H.E. Dr. Ali bin Amur Al Shidhani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Communications and Information Technology, said that the initiative supports technology localisation and the growth of the national digital industry by enabling Omani technology companies to develop and own locally built digital solutions and products. He added that the initiative will strengthen the competitiveness of these companies through national talent and expertise, contributing to greater digital sovereignty and local digital self-sufficiency, while supporting the growth of start-ups and national technology companies and enabling them to expand regionally and globally.
A National Partnership
H.E. Dr. Ali bin Amur Al Shidhani noted that the initiative represents an advanced model of partnership between government entities, financing and investment institutions, and the private sector.
Supporting Regional and International Expansion
The Undersecretary explained that the SAS Excellence Initiative will select Omani technology companies based on specific criteria and provide them with a range of incentives and benefits aimed at accelerating growth and strengthening their competitiveness in regional markets.
Comprehensive Support Package
Selected companies will receive a package of support measures, including wage support for up to 40 Omani employees per company, financing support of up to OMR 1 million per company, as well as competitive advantages in tenders issued by government entities and state-owned enterprises.
Supporting Oman Vision 2040
H.E. Mahmood bin Abdullah Al Awaini, Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, affirmed that the Ministry’s support for the SAS Excellence Initiative aligns with national efforts to achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Priority in Government Procurement
H.E. Eng. Badar bin Salim Al Maamari, Chairman of the Authority for Projects, Tenders and Local Content, stated that under the SAS Excellence Initiative, local information technology companies that meet specified criteria will receive priority consideration in selected government tenders and procurement opportunities.
Empowering Technology Companies
Ammar bin Salem bin Jameel Al Saadi said that the initiative reflects the Ministry’s vision of transforming Omani talent into a productive force driving the digital economy.
Financing Solutions to Drive Growth
Hussein bin Ali Al Lawati, Chief Executive Officer of the Development Bank, described the initiative as an important national step towards supporting promising Omani technology companies.
Strengthening Digital Capabilities
Ahmed Abdullah Saif Al Abri, Digital Solutions Manager at Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), said that the SAS Excellence Initiative represents a strategic opportunity to accelerate PDO’s digital transformation ambitions and supports Oman’s broader national transformation journey.
Company Selection Criteria
Companies participating in the initiative will be selected according to a set of criteria designed to ensure their readiness for growth and expansion.
