
Oman Investment Authority invests in leading US-based biopolymers company
This investment was made during Tidal Vision's Series B funding round, in which the company successfully raised over $140 million from strategic investors, according to its recent announcement. Through such international investments, OIA aims to localize innovative solutions to meet domestic market needs.
Founded in 2014, Tidal Vision specializes in converting renewable natural resources into sustainable, eco-friendly materials. The company develops biopolymer solutions based on chitosan, a natural, biodegradable, and non-toxic biopolymer derived from crustacean shells such as shrimp and crabs. Tidal Vision has successfully commercialized the large-scale production of chitosan using a zero-waste extraction process, offering a higher-quality and lower-cost alternative compared to competitors. The company is also committed to sustainability by repurposing byproducts from the fishing industry, reducing waste, and supporting the circular economy.
Chitosan-based solutions have applications across various industries, particularly in addressing pollution and climate challenges. The material is widely used in water treatment, agriculture, textiles, and fertilizers as a natural alternative to conventional chemicals such as aluminum sulfate, activated carbon, pesticides, and plastic films. Additionally, in the oil and gas sector, chitosan can be utilized for treating high-salinity water, a significant challenge given that industrial operations in this field produce approximately nine barrels of saline water for every barrel of oil extracted. Its use in agriculture also presents opportunities for seed coating and bio-pesticides, contributing to greater sustainability in the sector.
OIA continues to invest in innovative, environmentally friendly technologies and products through its Future Generations Fund (FGF). By investing internationally, OIA seeks to localise advanced solutions to serve the Omani market. Furthermore, OIA remains committed to investing in economically promising companies to enhance FGF's revenues and ensure sustainable returns for both present and future generations.
© Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Fintech News ME
a day ago
- Fintech News ME
Tuum to Power Uptex Bank's E-Banking Services in MEA
Tuum, an Estonia-based next-generation core banking provider, has been selected by Oliver Business Development (OBD) Holding to support its newly licensed e-banking services in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) under the Uptex Bank brand. Following the acquisition of its e-banking license, OBD is launching Uptex Bank, offering digital wallet and payment services designed to integrate with its existing financial ecosystem, including Uptex Broker, a forex and CFD broker in the MEA region, and Rizzbees, an EU-licensed crypto exchange. The bank's services will operate on Tuum's modular, cloud-native core platform, deployed via AWS in Europe and designed for scalability, compliance, and rapid development. Uptex Bank sought a partner capable of delivering a minimum viable product (MVP) within a short timeframe while maintaining scalability and regulatory compliance. Tuum's approach as a collaborative partner was a decisive factor in the selection process. 'We're building a unique e-money proposition that brings together traditional and next-gen financial services into one seamless ecosystem,' said Archie Sol, Chief Marketing Officer at OBD. 'Tuum stood out as the platform to help us achieve this vision. From their sleek technology to the responsiveness of their team, it was clear that they're not just a vendor, they're a partner. With Tuum, we're not only launching fast, we're building for scale. Uptex Bank is built for people tired of the old way banks treat them. From Gen Z and digital-first users to everyday customers seeking something faster, fairer, and more intuitive.' Tuum's API-first infrastructure allows Uptex Bank to integrate its new e-banking services with its existing brokerage and crypto operations, creating a unified environment across its brands. The platform is aligned with Omani regulatory requirements, including standards set by the Central Bank of Oman and the Capital Market Authority, and will support digital wallets and multi-currency payments (USD, EUR, GBP, AED, OMR, SAR) from launch. OBD anticipates onboarding over 50,000 users in the first year, with millions of transactions expected across its fintech portfolio. Tuum was selected following a competitive process in which speed, scalability, and regulatory readiness were key considerations. The platform's capabilities allowed Uptex Bank to plan an MVP launch within months while retaining enterprise-level controls. Tuum also supported OBD in assembling relevant ecosystem partners aligned with Uptex Bank's business model. 'This is a landmark win for Tuum,' said Miljan Stamenkovic, Chief Revenue Officer at Tuum. 'It shows the rising demand for modern, modular core banking platforms in the Middle East. OBD is building an ambitious and truly differentiated proposition in Oman and we're proud to provide the infrastructure behind it.'


Arabian Post
6 days ago
- Arabian Post
Mira Developments Expands into Oman with Major Investment
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Mira Developments, a UAE-based luxury real estate developer, has made a significant move into Oman with the acquisition of a one million square foot plot of land in the Dhofar Governorate. This strategic expansion positions the company to tap into the growing demand for luxury properties in Salalah, particularly as the region gains attention for its potential in high-end tourism and residential developments. The announcement came shortly after Mira Developments hosted a high-profile three-day mastermind retreat that brought together over 100 top-tier real estate professionals. The retreat, which included brokers, architects, and representatives from luxury brands, marked a pivotal moment in the company's ambitious expansion strategy. The event served as both a networking platform and a launchpad for the company's upcoming developments in Oman, including the highly anticipated Mira Coral Bay project. ADVERTISEMENT Mira Developments' decision to enter the Omani market underscores its broader vision to become a leader in luxury branded living across the Gulf Cooperation Council region. With a focus on integrating premium design, sustainability, and lifestyle excellence, the company aims to set new standards for luxury communities in the region. The project will not only contribute to the local economy but also elevate the standards of residential living in Salalah, which is emerging as a prime destination for affluent residents and tourists. The retreat, which was set against the picturesque backdrop of Salalah's unique natural landscape and the refreshing Khareef season, proved to be the perfect setting for brainstorming and collaboration. The event featured a series of workshops and strategic roundtable discussions that aimed to push the boundaries of innovation in real estate. Participants explored opportunities for cross-sector collaboration and exchanged insights on future trends in luxury living, from sustainable architecture to cutting-edge smart home technology. The Dhofar region, known for its lush green landscapes and pristine coastline, offers a distinctive appeal for luxury developments. Salalah, in particular, is poised to benefit from its increasing popularity as a year-round destination. The Khareef season, which attracts tourists with its cool climate and stunning natural beauty, provides an ideal environment for high-end real estate projects designed to offer both comfort and exclusivity. Mira Coral Bay, the flagship development, is expected to feature world-class amenities, including bespoke residences, upscale retail spaces, and recreational facilities, all designed to cater to the discerning tastes of luxury buyers. The development will incorporate sustainable practices, aligning with Mira Developments' commitment to environmental responsibility. The company has also indicated that its approach will prioritise creating harmonious, eco-friendly communities that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings of Salalah. Real estate experts have noted that the luxury property market in Oman is ripe for development, particularly in regions like Dhofar. With its stunning landscapes and growing infrastructure, Salalah offers an attractive proposition for high-end investors looking for new opportunities outside of the more saturated markets in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The entry of Mira Developments into the Omani market is seen as a significant endorsement of the potential of Salalah as a luxury destination, and the project is expected to attract both regional and international investors. While Mira Developments' focus is on luxury properties, its broader vision extends beyond just creating high-end residences. The company aims to shape the future of luxury living by fostering innovation and collaborating with leading experts across industries. Through its strategic expansions, Mira Developments is positioning itself as a key player in the future of real estate development in the GCC region.


Time Out Abu Dhabi
07-08-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
This is the new train that will take you from Abu Dhabi to Oman in under 2 hours
Work has begun on the much-anticipated multi-billion-dollar UAE-Oman railway project. Plans for a railway between the neighbouring GCC nations have been in the offing since 2022 and work is finally underway. The railway project will initially operate between the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi and the Omani port city of Sohar. The project will cover a distance of 303km and travel at speeds of up to 200km/h. And it will be equipped to handle the diverse terrains between the two countries, as well as any unpredictable weather conditions and water flow from surrounding valleys. Innovative and sustainable engineering solutions will ensure safe journeys. Work on the huge project got underway in May 2024, following a shareholder agreement between Hafeet Rail, a company made up of Etihad Rail and Oman Rail, and construction companies. Works are progressing along the railway alignment between the two nations. The update pointed out that progress is underway in several areas in North Al Batinah and Al Buraimi governates in Oman and in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. To date, more than one million man-hours have been clocked in developing the railway. The name of Hafeet Rail for the project was decided following the joint UAE-Oman Business Forum held in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday April 23. You might also like: Etihad Rail passenger train: Everything we know so far Partnership agreements have been signed between stakeholders, major construction contracts have been awarded and companies between both borders will operate as joint teams for the project. What the UAE-Oman Hafeet Rail means for you Initially, it will operate between the Al Wathba area near Abu Dhabi and the Omani port city of Sohar. With a speed reaching 200 kilometres per hour, journeys between Abu Dhabi and Sohar will take 100 minutes. Passenger trains will be able to accommodate up to 400 people. The project board aims to 'establish a record-breaking timeline for implementation', so expect it to be established sooner than you think. The freight train will have a capacity equivalent to 300 trucks which will reduce carbon emissions generated by trucks by 80 per cent. Etihad Rail passenger train (Credit: Etihad Rail) It will pass through diverse geographical areas, including the desert and mountainous regions and along Jebel Hafeet – which is where the new Hafeet Rail brand derives its name. The railway aims to be a quick and efficient way of connecting the two countries, which is hoped to reduce car traffic and, consequently, the carbon footprint. This railway project would see the two Gulf countries connect and align with long-term plans for the GCC vision of a Gulf Railway. The Gulf Railway was planned to be opened by 2025, but construction has yet to begin in earnest. And, for businesses, it's predicted that it will have a major impact on trade between the two countries as one freight train trip is capable of transporting 15,000 tonnes of general cargo. Hafeet Rail will connect five major ports and a number of free zones in both countries and will see transportation time cut in half compared to traditional on-ground methods. Hafeet Rail represents a groundbreaking achievement as the first modern cross-border train in the Middle East and the Arab world, connecting the Sultanate of Oman to the United Arab Emirates. — Hafeet Rail (@hafeetrail) June 2, 2024 Living in the UAE Everything you need to know about traffic cameras in Abu Dhabi No, they're not just for speed When is the next public holiday? Here's when you'll have your next day off 5 unexpected Emirates ID perks you should seriously be using And yes, they all make our lives a little bit easier