Oman Vision 2040: Building a Tech-Powered Future with IT and AI

Oman, a land of ancient trade routes and breathtaking coastlines, is charting a bold new course with Oman Vision 2040. Launched as a blueprint to diversify the economy and secure a sustainable future, this ambitious plan places information technology (IT) and artificial intelligence (AI) at its core. As of early 2025, the Sultanate is making strides to transform itself into a regional tech hub—here’s how Vision 2040 is harnessing IT and AI to redefine Oman’s destiny.

The Big Picture: A Digital Economy by 2040

At its heart, Oman Vision 2040 is about moving beyond oil and gas, which have long fueled the nation’s prosperity. The goal? Boost the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from a modest 2% in 2021 to an impressive 10% by 2040. IT and AI are the engines driving this shift, promising to modernize industries, create jobs, and elevate Oman’s standing on the global stage. The plan isn’t just about keeping pace with the world—it’s about leapfrogging into the future.

The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology is leading the charge, with initiatives like the National Program for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies, kicked off in September 2024. This program, set to run through 2026, is laying the groundwork for a tech-savvy Oman. It’s not just talk either—specific targets include ranking among the top 50 nations in the Government AI Readiness Index and rolling out cutting-edge solutions across key sectors.

IT as the Backbone

Vision 2040 sees IT as the foundation of a connected, efficient Oman. The country is doubling down on digital infrastructure—think high-speed internet, cloud computing, and smart systems. Take the Oman Data Park, for instance, which is expanding its capacity to support businesses and government services with secure, local data solutions. This isn’t just about tech for tech’s sake—it’s about enabling everything from e-governance to online education.

The push for “digital transformation” is everywhere. Government services are going paperless, with platforms like the “Invest Easy” portal streamlining business processes. Meanwhile, the National Digital Innovation Center, launched in 2024, is nurturing startups and fostering a culture of innovation. Oman’s betting big on IT to make life easier for its people and more attractive for investors.

AI as the Game-Changer

If IT is the backbone, AI is the brain of Vision 2040. Oman’s embracing AI to solve real-world challenges and supercharge its economy. In healthcare, the Ministry of Health’s virtual health initiatives are using AI to diagnose conditions and connect patients in remote wadis to top doctors in Muscat. In energy, AI-driven geological analysis is pinpointing new resources—both fossil fuels and renewables—while cutting costs and boosting sustainability.

One standout project is “Oman GPT,” a locally developed AI language model that’s as Omani as frankincense and falaj systems. It’s designed to understand the nation’s culture and language, offering businesses and citizens a tool that’s both practical and proudly homegrown. Then there’s the Environmental Information Bank, where AI and blockchain team up to track climate data—a perfect example of how Oman’s blending tech with its commitment to a greener future.

Investing in Tomorrow

Oman’s not just building tech—it’s investing in it. The Oman Investment Authority’s stake in xAI, announced in late 2024, ties the Sultanate to one of the world’s most innovative AI companies. Closer to home, a new AI chip manufacturing project, unveiled this month, signals Oman’s intent to produce, not just consume, cutting-edge tech. These moves are bold bets that could pay off big, positioning Oman as a player in the global tech race.

The upcoming AI studio and open data platform, slated for 2025, will further fuel this momentum. By giving developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs access to data and tools, Oman’s creating a sandbox for innovation. Events like the AI Economics Initiative Forum and the Microsoft AI Tour in Muscat are already sparking collaboration between local talent and global giants.

People Power: Skills and Jobs

Vision 2040 knows that tech is only as good as the people behind it. Oman’s young, tech-hungry population is a goldmine, but scaling up IT and AI skills is a priority. Universities like Sultan Qaboos University are rolling out specialized programs, while the government’s partnering with private firms to train thousands in coding, data science, and AI development. The aim? A workforce ready to lead, not just follow, the digital revolution.

Challenges on the Horizon

It’s not all smooth sailing. Building a tech-driven future means tackling tricky issues—think cybersecurity, ethical AI use, and bridging the urban-rural digital divide. The National AI Policy, due for an update this quarter, promises to set clear guidelines, ensuring innovation doesn’t outpace responsibility. Infrastructure, too, needs a boost to keep up with Vision 2040’s grand plans.

A Vision Taking Shape

Oman Vision 2040 isn’t a distant dream—it’s happening now. From smarter ports in Salalah to virtual classrooms in Nizwa, IT and AI are weaving their way into daily life. The Sultanate’s not just chasing trends; it’s crafting a future where technology serves its people, preserves its heritage, and opens new doors. By 2040, Oman aims to be a nation where digital innovation powers prosperity—and if 2025 is any indication, it’s well on its way