Open Data & Research: UTAS–Al Mussanah will host a Library Forum on 8 June 2026 on “Open Data and the Future Economy,” aligned with Oman Vision 2040, featuring talks on data-driven innovation, digital sovereignty, AI in research, and the launch of “Afaq,” the university’s institutional repository. Clean Energy Manufacturing: Oman has launched a $1bn lithium-ion battery anode materials plant in Sohar Free Zone, backed by Zhongke Electric, targeting up to 200,000 tonnes capacity and supporting EVs and energy storage supply chains. Digital Sovereignty for Startups: Oman’s MoTCIT launched “Sas for Excellence” to help Omani tech firms build and own local digital products for growth and global expansion. Cybercrime Law: Oman’s new Law on Combating Cybercrime (Royal Decree 61/2026) sets penalties and powers to protect electronic data and systems, including rules around access credentials and misuse of IT tools. Education for Entrepreneurship: MoE and Oman Broadband Company signed a cooperation programme for the “Young Merchant” summer initiative for grades 7–11, focusing on entrepreneurship and financial literacy. Trade & Connectivity: India–Oman CEPA took effect on 1 June, with experts saying it boosts energy and economic security and helps create a more reliable trade corridor beyond the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Digital Cooperation: Bahrain and Comoros signed an MoU to advance eGovernment and digital transformation under Bahrain’s digital twinning initiative. MENA Deal Pulse: A Q1 2026 report says Middle East M&A stayed active with 196 deals worth $23.3bn, while the UAE saw fewer deals but continued momentum.