Oman’s digital economy contributed approximately OMR 800 million ($2.08 billion) to the national GDP in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic diversification strategy. According to a landmark report from the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, this growth is a direct result of the National Programme for the Digital Economy, which is accelerating technological adoption and innovation in line with the strategic objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
The report, titled “Harvest of the Digital Economy in the Sultanate of Oman: From Foundation to Enablement,” provides a comprehensive overview of the progress made between 2021 and 2025 across all sectors.
A Multi-Pillar National Strategy
Launched in 2021, the national programme is built on eight transformative initiatives: government digital transformation, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, the cybersecurity industry, the digital industry, space, e-commerce, financial technologies, and digital infrastructure development.
Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, affirmed that the ministry is championing an ambitious vision to forge an advanced, sustainable digital economy, following the directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.
He underscored that strategic efforts have centered on accelerating government digital transformation, cultivating a robust digital society, and empowering business digitalization.
Key Achievements Across The Board
The programme has yielded impressive results across multiple sectors. Government digital transformation efforts have led to the streamlining of 3,166 services and the full digitization of 2,277 services and permits, with annual government digital transactions now exceeding 29 million.
In talent development, the “Makin” initiative has qualified over 11,000 Omani professionals, boosting the local workforce in the tech sector. Omanis now constitute approximately 69 percent of technical, specialized, and leadership positions in IT professions.
The cybersecurity sector has also matured, with the establishment of three centers of excellence in academic institutions and the delivery of 2,976 specialized training opportunities to government personnel through the Advanced Cybersecurity Academy.
Pioneering Strides in AI and Space Tech
Oman is making significant headway in advanced technologies, with investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) surpassing OMR 79 million. This has catalyzed landmark projects including the national generative AI linguistic model “Muaeen,” an AI Studio, and a dedicated zone for AI-focused startups, which now number around 22 specialized companies.
The nation’s space sector achieved a historic milestone in 2024 with the launch of its first experimental rocket from the Duqm spaceport. The sector now hosts 25 companies and contributes 0.045 percent to GDP.
Building A Robust Digital Foundation
Underpinning this growth is a rapidly expanding digital infrastructure. Mobile broadband now covers approximately 99 percent of the population, while high-speed fixed broadband reaches 100 percent of residential units through fiber optics, 5G, or satellite connectivity.
This foundation has powered a boom in digital finance and e-commerce. Non-cash transactions surged by approximately 703 percent between 2020 and 2025, supported by four national payment systems. The e-commerce market reached a volume of approximately OMR 288 million in 2025, with over 14,000 licenses issued for related activities.
Dr. Ali bin Amer Al Shidhani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology, emphasized that the programme forms an integrated national framework steering the transition toward a knowledge-driven economy founded on technology and digital innovation.
About The National Programme for the Digital Economy
The National Programme for the Digital Economy (2021-2025) is a strategic Omani initiative designed to establish the digital economy as a fundamental pillar of national diversification in line with Oman Vision 2040. It orchestrates eight core programmes managed by various government bodies, including the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, to develop digital infrastructure, enhance government efficiency, and stimulate business innovation through advanced technology.
Source: Times of Oman
