AGP Executive Report

Oman–Qatar Tech & Trade: Oman and Qatar discussed expanding economic and investment cooperation, including transport, logistics and modern technologies—an Oman-focused signal for regional tech partnerships. Oman Digital Governance: Oman’s Ministry of Justice joined GCC under-secretaries talks on an electronic platform for exchanging judicial notices and draft unified rules to combat information-technology crimes. Healthcare Logistics by Drone: Dhofar launched the second phase of the “Sky Bridge” drone medical-delivery initiative, using the “Sahm” drone to carry up to 150kg from Salalah to Al Halaniyat to improve access for remote communities. Public Health Safety: Oman’s Ministry of Health kicked off Oman Patient Safety Month, with a scientific conference and 17 papers on safer care for non-communicable diseases. Military Training in Oman: Sultan Qaboos Military College in Thumrait ran a live-fire practical demo for officer cadets’ “Shield 31” final exercise, showing integration across army, air force and engineering services. Regional Tech Context: A UK–GCC free trade deal is also pushing easier cross-border data flows, potentially boosting data-centre growth across the Gulf.

Oman–Dhofar Water Tech: Oman’s agriculture ministry is testing fog harvesting in Dhofar’s mountains during Khareef to turn atmospheric moisture into a non-conventional water source, with 12 monitoring stations across nine locations. Drone Medical Logistics: The “Sky Bridge” initiative moved into its second phase, using the “Sahm” drone to carry about 150kg of medical supplies from Salalah to Al Halaniyat Islands, aiming to prove faster air-cargo delivery for remote areas. Research & Innovation Networks: Oman chaired a semi-annual meeting of the Federation of Arab Scientific Research Councils via RIA, reviewing research awards, Arab researcher networks, and funding for regional science programmes. Regional Tech Diplomacy: Egypt and Oman discussed setting up joint industrial zones using Egypt’s industrial developer model to deepen investment and supply-chain links. Academic Collaboration: YVU signed an MoU with Sultan Qaboos University to boost chemistry research, student/faculty exchanges, and shared scientific facilities. Digital Infrastructure Trade: A UK–GCC free trade deal is being framed as a boost for cross-border data centre growth by easing data-flow rules across the region. Cyber/AI Sector Signal: Oman’s participation in the Moscow International Book Fair highlighted cultural and scientific outreach alongside universities and ministries.

Fog Harvesting in Dhofar: Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture is continuing a fog-harvesting project in Dhofar’s mountains to study how much water can be captured during the Khareef season, using a network of fog-collection stations to monitor conditions and identify the best future sites. Drone Medical Logistics: The “Sky Bridge” initiative moved into its second phase, launching drone deliveries to Al Halaniyat Islands with the “Sahm” drone carrying about 150kg of medical supplies at speeds over 120km/h. Oman Leads Arab Science Talks: Oman chaired the semi-annual meeting of the Federation of Arab Scientific Research Councils, reviewing research awards, innovation networks and funding for Arab scientific programmes. Tech & Innovation Showcases: Oman is set to represent itself at the Moscow International Book Fair with an official pavilion, while Oman’s Research and Innovation Authority shortlisted projects for Falling Walls Lab Berlin, including medical-education and cancer-care innovations. Regional Security Tech Context: With Strait of Hormuz tensions back in focus, reports say Oman is part of regional efforts around maritime arrangements as US-Iran escalation continues.

Oman–Saudi Security Talks: Sultan Haitham’s Jeddah meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on regional security and de-escalation as US-Iran tensions keep the Strait of Hormuz in the spotlight. Maritime Risk in Oman’s Corridor: Two Saudi-linked supertankers near Khasab were hit by unidentified projectiles, with crews safe; the incidents are being treated as an escalating threat environment for shipping. US-Iran Escalation: The US launched new strikes on IRGC targets after “attempted attacks” on commercial shipping and US personnel, while Iran signaled openness to a return to a June interim deal. Oman Tech & Innovation: Oman’s Research and Innovation Authority shortlisted projects for Falling Walls Lab finals in Berlin, including work on medical education access and chemotherapy side effects. Digital & Business Tech: ClearTax and Odoo teamed up to embed e-invoicing and tax compliance into GCC ERP workflows, starting with UAE and Oman users. Energy Transition Training: Al Sharqiyah South trained officials on “new energy” and the energy transition, aiming to build readiness for investment and innovation. Halal Tourism Standards: Oman is moving toward recognised standards and certification to turn its Muslim travel appeal into consistent service benchmarks.

Native biodiversity: Oman’s Environment Authority spotlights the Būt tree (Monotheca buxifolia) from the Al Hajar Mountains—an edible wild fruit that has supported mountain communities for generations and now needs conservation attention. AI in public oversight: Oman’s State Financial and Administrative Audit Authority took part in an INTOSAI symposium in Cairo on using AI in auditing, including “frugal AI” and risk management for digital transformation. Halal tourism standards: Oman is moving beyond “halal-friendly” reputation by working on recognised standards and certification, with a Salalah workshop bringing together hotels, labs, inspection bodies and conformity assessors. Energy transition engineering: The Salalah Engineering Forum returns with applied research on clean energy infrastructure—renewables integration, grid resilience, AI, hydrogen and the circular economy. Public health lab upgrade: Oman’s National Polio Laboratory achieved full competency in a WHO proficiency test, strengthening disease surveillance and response. Digital governance concern: Oman is debating whether regulatory actions against one company should automatically spill over to other linked businesses through shared owners or authorised managers. Air cargo tech leadership: Awery Aviation Software appoints Marcangelo as Global Sales EVP, aiming to scale digital transformation in air cargo. Shipping risk in Hormuz: Fresh US-Iran escalation coincides with reports of tankers hit by “unknown projectiles” near Oman’s Khasab, keeping maritime security in focus. Apple leadership change: Apple names John Ternus as CEO, with an iPhone event due soon—another signal for the tech-and-AI race.

AI Hardware for Oman’s datacenters: THine Electronics unveiled new VCSEL drivers and TIAs using ZERO EYE SKEW tech to cut latency and power for PCIe6/7 links, targeting large-scale AI server growth. Space policy: Turkey signed NASA’s Artemis Accords, joining Oman and other regional partners in peaceful Moon-focused cooperation. Oman tech exports: 24 Omani companies showcased services at LEAP 2026 in Saudi Arabia, backed by Oman’s transport/communications ministry and its Numou growth support. Digital resilience: Oman’s National Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2030 aims to strengthen the country’s digital economy and resilience. Health & science: Emmaus Life Sciences and Cedars-Sinai expanded work on L-glutamine for pancreatic cancer after GlutaPanc results in Nature Cancer. Climate impact: A Climate Central study links warmer nights to major sleep loss worldwide, with climate change driving a growing share of the damage. Road safety in Oman: A fatal multi-vehicle crash involving heavy logistics highlights the need for safer driving and better recovery time for drivers. Energy security in the region: New strikes and tanker incidents keep Strait of Hormuz disruption in focus, with Kharg Island’s role in Iran’s crude exports repeatedly highlighted.

Oman–Uzbekistan Cultural Tech: Oman’s National Records and Archives Authority met Uzbek archival and research institutions in Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent to expand cooperation on preservation, digitization, restoration and joint studies. Dhofar Remote Sensing: A Sultan Qaboos University-led study used satellite data and AI models to identify frankincense trees in Dhofar with 93.7% accuracy, pointing to large-scale monitoring beyond field surveys. Musandam Connectivity: Oman’s Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road project is ~76% complete, aiming to cut Khasab–Dibba travel to about 55 minutes and Lima–Khasab to around 20 minutes. Digital Skills & Learning: NCSI launched a survey on promoting lifelong learning across Muscat, Nizwa and Sur, while ISG opened “The Forum” innovation hub to turn student ideas into prototypes. Health Training: OMSB enrolled 388 doctors and nurses in specialised 2026/27 programmes to strengthen advanced medical education. Mobility Tech: DEEPAL (Changan) launched Oman’s REEV models S05, S07 and G318 with extended-range electric driving. Workplace Tech Expansion: Yango Group expanded Great Place to Work certification from 9 to 17 countries, including Oman. Energy/Trade Risk Watch: Strait of Hormuz tensions remain in focus as US-Iran strikes and mine concerns continue to affect shipping and oil markets.

Oman Infrastructure: Musandam’s Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road (Diba–Lima–Khasab) is 76% complete, cutting Khasab–Dibba travel to about 55 minutes and supporting tourism and investment. Road Safety: Oman launched an investigation after a steel-coil truck crash in Samail killed six women from one family and injured 18 others in a 15-vehicle pile-up. Digital Security: Oman rolled out its National Cybersecurity Strategy 2026–2030, aiming to protect critical infrastructure, boost cyber resilience, and strengthen public-private coordination. Energy Transition: Duqm advanced wind power projects to construction-ready status under Duqm City Renewable Energy, targeting 58MW and about 190GWh annually. Water & Climate: A Salalah symposium focused on water resources sustainability and modern technologies for climate adaptation. Health Training: Oman Medical Specialty Board inducted 388 doctors and nurses into specialised 2026/2027 programmes to expand advanced care capacity. AI & IT Business: Bahwan CyberTek highlighted AI-driven products and continued public-sector tech spending demand across Oman and the region. Regional Tech/Trade: MTN partnered with a UAE data-centre investment platform to build AI-ready infrastructure across Africa, starting with South Africa and Nigeria.

Oman Cybersecurity: Oman has rolled out its National Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2030, aiming to protect critical infrastructure, boost cyber resilience, build local capabilities, and strengthen public-private cooperation. Learning Survey: NCSI has started a survey on promoting lifelong learning in Oman, interviewing 1,200 citizens in Muscat, Nizwa and Sur to map access, participation and skills. Health Infrastructure: Oman is developing a major new Samail hospital (RO 45m), with 170 inpatient beds initially and plans to expand, including theatres, emergency care, labs and ICU units. Energy Transition: Duqm City’s renewable push adds two wind projects at SEZAD (58MW total), while a Salalah Engineering Forum (Sept 1–2) will focus on clean energy engineering, storage, AI and hydrogen. Water & Climate: A UN water symposium opens in Salalah, tackling flood/drought risk, desalination, reuse, groundwater protection and the role of AI and remote sensing. Transport Safety: A deadly Samail road crash killed six and injured 18 after a steel-coil truck triggered a 15-vehicle collision; investigations are underway. Digital Payments Law: Oman’s Cybercrime Law includes specific offences tied to electronic payment means, with penalties for misuse like stealing payment data and forging payment instruments. Regional Trade & Shipping: Tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz rose over the past week, though it remains far below pre-war levels as Oman and Iran continue corridor talks.

Renewables in Duqm: Oman’s Duqm City Renewable Energy initiative is moving ahead with two wind farms at SEZAD (Duqm North and South Wind Project), totaling 58MW and about 190GWh a year, with electrical design and grid-connection work now tender-ready. Clean-energy engineering in Salalah: The Salalah Engineering Forum (Sept 1–2) will spotlight practical solutions for Oman’s clean energy transition, including renewables plus storage, grid resilience, AI in energy, and low-carbon hydrogen. Cybersecurity push: Oman has launched its National Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2030, setting a framework to strengthen governance, resilience, skills, cooperation, and a cybersecurity economy aligned with Vision 2040. Digital payments safeguards: Oman’s Cybercrime Law (Royal Decree 61/2026) spells out offences tied to electronic payment means, including misuse of payment data and forging electronic payment instruments. Water security science: A UN symposium in Salalah (starting Sunday) will tackle water and climate change, covering floods, drought, salinity, aflaj protection, desalination, reuse, and the use of AI, remote sensing, GIS and modelling. Road safety tragedy: Oman’s Transport Safety Office has opened an investigation after a Samail crash killed six women and injured 18 when a steel-coil truck lost control amid congestion, involving 15 vehicles. Investment in Dhofar: Oman’s “Invest in Oman” platform lists five Dhofar opportunities worth about RO 1.95bn, including Future Salalah City (RO 1.9bn) and eco-tourism projects like the Botanical Memory Garden. Oman–Saudi coordination: Oman and Saudi Arabia will meet in Salalah to review joint economic, trade and industrial integration, with a focus on supply chains, non-oil exports and easing barriers for businesses.

Cybersecurity: Oman has launched its National Cyber Security Strategy 2026–2030, setting a national framework to boost cyber resilience, governance, skills, public awareness, cooperation, and a future cybersecurity economy aligned with Vision 2040. Water & Climate Tech: A UN water symposium on “Water and Climate Change” opens in Salalah, with Oman pushing solutions like desalination, treated-water reuse, aflaj protection, and using AI, remote sensing, GIS and hydrological modelling for water security. Standards for Smarter Water Use: Oman introduced three new standards for water flow measurement—electromagnetic, mechanical, and ultrasonic meters—to improve accuracy and consistency in managing water resources. Oil & Gas Safety: Oman’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals is rolling out an integrated health, safety and environment system for the oil and gas sector, reporting fewer lost-time and serious traffic accidents in 2025. Digital Investment Push: Through “Invest in Oman,” Oman unveiled five Dhofar investment opportunities worth about OMR1.95bn, including the RO 1.9bn Future Salalah City project. Regional Tech Diplomacy: Oman and Saudi Arabia will meet in Salalah to review progress on joint economy, trade and industry initiatives, including industrial supply chains and non-oil exports. Transport Safety: Oman ordered an investigation into the Samail crash that killed six and injured 18.

Oman Water Standards: Oman has introduced three new standards to tighten water flow measurement and boost water resource management: OS 1662 for electromagnetic flow meters, OS 1663 for mechanical meters, and OS 1664 for ultrasonic meters—aimed at better accuracy, reliability, and alignment with international best practices. Oman Tech & AI: Omantel’s Otech has launched a sovereign AI interface in Oman, and Otech also partnered with Remedy on AI-driven workforce analytics, signaling deeper local adoption of AI tools. Oman Real-World AI in Health: A national AI project is screening over 43,000 diabetic patients in Oman to help prevent vision loss. Space Connectivity in the Gulf: The UAE granted Starlink a 10-year satellite network licence, formalizing broadband satellite internet under its telecom regulatory framework. Regional Tech Governance: A new debate is emerging over who controls data when companies process it in orbit—raising fresh governance questions for the fast-growing space data economy. Energy & Shipping Watch: Oman-Iran Strait of Hormuz talks and mine-clearing updates are easing risk premiums, with oil flows and prices still volatile.

Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy: Iran and Oman have moved toward a temporary shipping corridor and revenue-sharing for Hormuz traffic, but the US says it is not negotiating with Tehran and wants conditions met before any wider reopening. Energy Markets: Oil prices slipped toward weekly losses as supply-risk premiums eased on the corridor talk, even as shipping remains uneven and Washington keeps tightening economic pressure. Fed Watch: Asian markets turned cautious ahead of Fed Chair Kevin Warsh’s Jackson Hole speech, with investors watching for clues on rates after sticky inflation warnings. AI/Markets: Nvidia’s blockbuster forecast kept tech momentum alive, lifting regional sentiment while chip stocks pulled back slightly as traders waited for more macro signals. Oman Tech & Research: ArchDaily highlighted Oman among proposed “unbuilt research centers,” pointing to new lab and workshop concepts for experimentation. Oman Business/AI: Omantel’s Otech and DeepAstra were reported launching a sovereign AI platform in Oman, adding to the country’s push for applied AI. Cybersecurity (GCC): GCC members adopted guiding essential cybersecurity controls, a step that could shape regional compliance and digital resilience.

Strait of Hormuz Tech & Energy Watch: A second commercial tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran and Oman push talks on a joint navigation arrangement, while crude flows are slowly creeping higher and oil prices stay sensitive to any progress on reopening safer routes. Oman Diplomacy: Oman sent condolences to Nepal after deadly floods and to Pakistan after a hospital fire, underscoring Muscat’s regional outreach even as maritime risks remain in focus. AI Market Signal: Nvidia’s blockbuster results and aggressive long-term guidance kept tech stocks leading on Wall Street, lifting broader AI-linked sentiment even as investors watch Fed signals at Jackson Hole. Space & Engineering: ESA selected Spain’s PLD Space for a €158.9m contract to scale and reuse its MIURA 5 launcher under the European Launcher Challenge. Materials Research: Thermo Fisher unveiled the EMPAD G2 detector to speed up advanced 4D STEM microscopy for materials and semiconductor research. Oman Tech Angle: Oman’s R&D spending hit RO 189.4m, and the country is also advancing AI in healthcare with a national project screening diabetic patients to prevent vision loss.

Oman Industrial Strategy 2040: Oman is pushing smarter industrial growth with 30 priority activities across seven clusters (food, petrochemicals, healthcare, metals, electromechanical, environmental industries, and renewables), aiming to lift manufacturing value and non-oil exports under the RO 10.7bn-by-2040 target. AI in HR (GCC): A new Korn Ferry report says 93% of GCC organisations—including Oman—are exploring or piloting AI in HR, but only 1% are ready to scale it enterprise-wide, highlighting a governance and capability gap. Strait of Hormuz talks (Oman-Iran): Oman and Iran are negotiating a temporary shipping corridor and mine clearance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with diplomacy easing some oil-risk pricing even as conditions remain unresolved. Global tech shockwaves: Nvidia’s blockbuster results and 70% fiscal 2028 revenue growth forecast are driving AI-led market rallies, while the US is reportedly considering sweeping chip tariffs—raising uncertainty for the wider semiconductor supply chain. Fintech partnership: Pakistan’s ABHI teamed with Saudi’s NOX Group to offer earned-wage access for employees, bringing real-time salary flexibility into the region’s workplace tech.

Strait of Hormuz Talks: Iran and Oman are negotiating a temporary shipping corridor and joint mine-clearing plan to restart limited traffic in the blockaded Strait of Hormuz, but details are still unsettled and Iran warns the strait won’t open without US conditions being met. Market Pulse: Global stocks steadied as oil slid below $90 on Hormuz optimism, while investors stayed cautious ahead of Nvidia’s earnings and digested hotter US inflation that keeps rate-hike bets alive. Oman Tech & Industry: Oman’s industrial sector is shifting toward technology-led growth under Industrial Strategy 2040, with manufacturing targets rising toward RO 10.7bn by 2040. AI in Property: Oman Real Estate Association launched an online platform and signed cooperation deals at an innovation and AI forum to turn digital tools into practical value for the sector. Sustainable Transport Training: Shell Oman Marketing and the Youth Centre wrapped up “Electric Vehicle Experts (EV-Pro),” training 35 Omani youth on EV infrastructure, planning, maintenance and sustainability goals. Innovation Showcase: Final qualifiers for Oman’s Falling Walls Lab 2026 run next Tuesday in Nizwa, selecting winners to represent Oman in Berlin.