Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), the Sultanate’s largest oil and gas producer, has launched the second edition of its national hackathon. The three-day event, part of its Ignite Digital Campaign 2026, aims to source digital solutions for its business challenges while strengthening the country’s wider tech ecosystem.
Quick Facts
- Three-day national innovation challenge in Oman.
- Focuses on cost savings and operational efficiency.
- New incubator to support winning ideas post-event.
Bridging Industry and Innovation
Hackathon 2.0 brings together a diverse group of participants, including PDO employees, university students, jobseekers, and local technology SMEs. The challenge calls on them to design and build prototypes addressing real-world operational needs in areas like production optimisation, cost savings, and digital enablement.
The initiative is a core part of PDO’s digital transformation strategy, connecting its industrial expertise with emerging local talent. By opening its challenges to the public, the energy giant is tapping into a broader pool of innovators to find practical solutions using technologies such as AI, data analytics, and automation.
From Prototype to Market with New Incubator
A key addition to this year’s event is a dedicated incubator and accelerator program designed to take winning ideas beyond the competition stage. This signals a more structured approach to innovation, providing a clear pathway for promising solutions to be implemented within PDO’s operations.
The program also aims to create opportunities for these solutions to find wider market application, potentially spinning out new tech products or services from the hackathon. On the final day, participants will present their prototypes to a panel of expert judges.
Fueling Oman’s National Digital Agenda
The hackathon directly supports Oman’s national goals of economic diversification and building a knowledge-based workforce. As the country invests in its digital infrastructure and talent development, initiatives like Hackathon 2.0 play a crucial role in strengthening the links between major industries, academia, and the startup community.
By fostering a culture of practical problem-solving, the event helps develop skills relevant to future market demands and creates a pipeline of tech talent capable of driving growth beyond the energy sector.
About Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is the leading exploration and production company in the Sultanate of Oman. It delivers the majority of the country’s crude oil production and natural gas supply, focusing on delivering excellence, growth, and sustainable value creation within and beyond the oil and gas industry.
Source: Zawya
