In a significant boost to Oman’s burgeoning tech landscape, the AI Hackathon 2025, organized by Omantel Innovation Labs and The Rising Omani Startups Programme, has successfully concluded, identifying eight promising AI-driven ventures. The intensive four-day event brought together 20 early-stage startups to develop and refine their innovative solutions.
Fostering AI-Powered Entrepreneurship
Held at the Omantel Headquarters in Muscat, the hackathon provided a platform for founders to build AI-powered prototypes and explore practical use cases for emerging technologies. Participants worked closely with mentors and industry specialists to sharpen their business models, transforming nascent ideas into viable products.
The initiative is a cornerstone of a joint commitment to cultivate a dynamic, innovation-led ecosystem in the Sultanate, directly contributing to the goals of Oman Vision 2040.
Spotlight on the Winners
Eight startups were recognized for their innovative AI-enabled solutions. The top three teams were each awarded OMR 3,000 from The Rising Omani Startups Programme and will advance their development journey at Omantel Innovation Labs. An additional five startups were selected for a two-month incubation period at the Labs.
The top three winners are:
- 1st Place – E&E (Tawjih AI): An enterprise intelligence platform that leverages AI to convert fragmented corporate data into actionable insights, empowering sales teams with data-driven decision-making capabilities.
- 2nd Place – Synapse Cyber: An AI-assisted cybersecurity device designed to protect networks through automated threat detection and secure system updates, accessible to users without specialized technical expertise.
- 3rd Place – Wasl: An AI-enhanced business communication tool for SMEs and freelancers that automates reminders, scheduling, and workflow tasks via an Arabic WhatsApp-style interface.
A Commitment to Oman’s Vision 2040
Leaders from both organizing bodies emphasized the hackathon’s role in nurturing local talent and strengthening the national economy.
HH Sayyida Ghada bint Jaifer Al Said, Senior Manager at Omantel Innovation Labs, said, “At Omantel, we remain committed to strengthening Sultanate of Oman’s innovation landscape and enabling the next generation of technology-driven ventures. The second edition of the AI Hackathon highlights our dedication to equipping founders with the tools and expertise needed to harness artificial intelligence and unlock new opportunities for growth.”
Qais bin Rashid Al-Tubi, General Supervisor of the Rising Omani Startups Programme, stated, “The AI Hackathon reflects the vision of the Rising Omani Startups Programme to empower forward-thinking entrepreneurs capable of applying artificial intelligence to solve real economic and social challenges. Through this initiative, and in collaboration with Omantel Innovation Labs, we continue to provide founders with the support and opportunities they need to innovate, scale, and contribute to the Sultanate’s economic diversification.”
About Omantel Innovation Labs
Omantel Innovation Labs is the startup support and corporate venture capital arm of Omantel. Since its establishment in 2021, it has played a central role in supporting Oman Vision 2040 by nurturing over 60 technology startups through its accelerator and innovation programs. The Labs also manage a joint fund between Omantel and Future Fund Oman, having invested approximately OMR 3 million in promising ventures.
About The Rising Omani Startups Programme
Operating under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said, The Rising Omani Startups Programme is a key initiative to advance the Sultanate’s startup ecosystem. It is implemented in partnership with several government ministries and the Oman ICT Group (ITHCA) to empower entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and connect them with local and global business and investment opportunities.
Source: Zawya
