logo
Biotechnology oversight committee holds meeting

Biotechnology oversight committee holds meeting

Times of Oman20-07-2025
Muscat: The Oversight Committee for Biotechnology in the Sultanate of Oman today held its third meeting, chaired by Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation.
During the meeting, the committee reviewed the latest developments regarding the implementation of decisions from its second meeting. This included the crucial task of completing the requirements for preparing the National Biotechnology Strategy in accordance with the approved work plan, as well as finalizing the procedures for appointing the specialized consultant responsible for developing the strategy.
The tender for the consultancy services was recently issued through the electronic system of the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority.
Dr. Kawther Ibrahim Al Balushi, Project Manager for the National Biotechnology Strategy, delivered a visual presentation to the committee members. She outlined the detailed plan for implementing the remaining phase of the project and highlighted the efforts made by various national committees and teams in this regard.
Coinciding with the third meeting of the Biotechnology Oversight Committee, a cooperation program was launched and signed to fund the assignment of a consultant for the National Biotechnology Strategy project. This agreement was signed by three parties: the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, and OMIFCO – the project's funding entity.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Rahma Ibrahim Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Dr. Khamis Saif Al Jabri on behalf of the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, and Khalid Sulaiman Al Farsi, OMIFCO Director General of Supply Chain.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Health insurance claims management firm established in Oman
Health insurance claims management firm established in Oman

Observer

timean hour ago

  • Observer

Health insurance claims management firm established in Oman

The first company specializing in health insurance claims management company, was established today. Green Line Health Insurance Claims Management Company is the first Omani company licensed for this activity, supported by a national vision consistent with the directives of Oman Vision 2040, aiming to provide services with global standards using the latest technologies, and to enhance and empower national competencies to undertake a key role in this new field. Faisal Hamad Al Rashdi, Co-founder and CEO of Green Line Insurance Services, stated that, due to his long experience in the health insurance sector, he observed the operational challenges facing this sector, whether at the level of insurance companies, healthcare providers, or even policyholders. Given a clear gap in claims management, Al Rashdi decided to establish this company, especially with the Financial Services Authority (FSA) announcing the opening for applications to practice health insurance claims management as an independent and regulated activity. This presented a national opportunity to establish a specialized local company that contributes to building this vital sector. He explained that the market lacked a specialized company in health insurance claims management, with a greater reliance on foreign companies managing operations from outside Oman. This affected the speed and quality of services, in addition to the possibility of health data, which is highly sensitive, being leaked through external systems. The Financial Services Authority had taken the initiative to issue clear legislation to ensure the protection of this data within Oman. He noted that the company represents a reliable source managed by national competencies, meeting market needs through its proximity to clients, which directly reflects on work quality and the speed of transaction completion. Faisal Al Rashdi said that it is natural for any sector to face some challenges when entering a phase of change, especially when there are long-standing working relationships between the market and external parties that have managed this activity for decades. However, he stressed the necessity of redoubling efforts to build trust and confirm readiness to provide high-standard services that meet the needs and aspirations of target groups, in addition to full compliance with national regulations. As for the project's nature, he mentioned that the company offers a comprehensive package of services in health insurance claims management that meets international standards. These include accurate and prompt medical claims management, medical and administrative verification using smart systems to detect duplication and errors, as a step towards time management. It also covers medical network management, from contracting with hospitals and clinics to ensuring the quality of service provided to policyholders, in addition to data analysis and smart reporting that helps insurance companies make decisions based on accurate data. He emphasized that the company relies heavily on digital solutions and modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, for faster data analysis and the automation of routine operations using robotic process automation (RPA), which reduces manual errors and saves time and effort. Furthermore, it is fully integrated with the national platform developed by the Financial Services Authority ("Dhamani" platform), which has been approved for fully electronic operations. He clarified that the company handles data confidentially, storing client data on company-owned servers only, without relying on external servers, to ensure complete control over information security. It applies best cybersecurity standards, such as advanced data encryption during transmission and storage, firewalls, and intrusion detection and prevention systems. Additionally, access permissions are granted on a limited and well-considered basis according to the employees' job roles, along with adherence to all local and international laws and regulations related to data protection and periodic reviews to ensure continuous compliance.

Salalah to host Oman's next iconic coastal destination
Salalah to host Oman's next iconic coastal destination

Observer

timean hour ago

  • Observer

Salalah to host Oman's next iconic coastal destination

SALALAH, JULY 27 Construction has officially commenced on a major new tourism project along Dhofar's southern coast, with the first phase of development valued at RO 25 million and total investments expected to exceed RO 130 million, according to site observations and project documentation. The project, titled 'Boutique Hotel Salalah and Marina,' is being spearheaded by Al Wathba Hospitality, and is set to transform over 2.5 million square metres of coastal land into a premium tourism and leisure destination. A prominent signboard at the project site—visited this week by Oman Observer—confirms that construction activities are underway, with early works and land preparation already visible. The development will include a luxury beachfront hotel, an integrated marina, and supporting tourism infrastructure designed to enhance Salalah's year-round appeal. Design and engineering responsibilities are being handled by leading international firms. The architectural vision is led by Benoy and Opini, while the main engineering consultancy is Tusker, a firm known for infrastructure and environmental planning. Execution of marine works has been assigned to MDC Dredging & Marine, in partnership with Al Fairuz, according to details on-site. The location, situated west of central Salalah, is part of a broader national push to develop high-impact tourism assets in Dhofar, in line with Oman Vision 2040. The strategy aims to expand the tourism sector's contribution to GDP and promote the region as a key gateway for sustainable economic diversification. Initial visuals on the project board suggest a design that integrates natural landscapes, palm-lined promenades, and luxury coastal amenities, preserving the environmental character of the surrounding area. The inclusion of solar-powered site lighting reflects an emphasis on modern and eco-conscious development. Industry observers note that this development could play a significant role in diversifying Dhofar's tourism economy beyond the seasonal Khareef influx, offering a high-end option for both regional and international travellers.

Development Bank loan approvals rise 13% to RO 110 million in H1 2025
Development Bank loan approvals rise 13% to RO 110 million in H1 2025

Observer

timean hour ago

  • Observer

Development Bank loan approvals rise 13% to RO 110 million in H1 2025

BUSINESS REPORTER MUSCAT, JULY 27 Development Bank has approved 3,716 loans worth RO 110 million ($286 million) during the first six months of 2025, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth reflects the bank's commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040 by promoting economic diversification and strengthening the private sector across the country. 'The loans and programs we provide contribute substantial added value to our national economy,' said Hamad al Harthi, MSME Chief & Portfolio Management, Development Bank. 'We're helping meet food security requirements, reduce reliance on imports and encourage entrepreneurs to pursue new opportunities.' The bank's success stems from its tailored approach that recognizes the unique needs of businesses at different stages of development. 'We craft solutions that align with their business strategies,' Al Harthi explained, enabling both start-ups and established companies to grow and expand their operations. Building on this comprehensive strategy, H1 financing was distributed across key economic sectors that drive national development. Manufacturing received the largest allocation at RO 38 million ($99 million) reflecting the sector's important role in reducing import dependence. General professional services attracted RO 19 million ($49 million) while traditional sectors also saw strong support with fisheries receiving RO 14 million ($36 million), agriculture RO9 million ($23 million) and mining RO8 million ($21 million). This sector-focused approach was matched by broad geographical reach across Oman. Muscat Governorate received RO 25 million ($65 million) while regional development was supported through considerable allocations to North Al Batinah at RO18 million ($47 million) and South Al Sharqiyah at RO 14 million ($36 million). South Al Batinah received RO 11 million ($29 million) and Al Wusta Governorate RO8 million ($21 million) ensuring development opportunities reach communities nationwide. The increased lending demonstrates the bank's commitment to supporting businesses of all sizes, from start-ups and SMEs to large corporates. This approach enables entrepreneurs to implement projects across growth-driving sectors while maximizing local value creation and contributing to Oman's strategic economic goals. As part of a broader ecosystem of government organizations aligned with Oman Vision 2040, Development Bank continues to provide support and incentives to strengthen national industries and promote in-country value. 'Our shared goal is sustainable and inclusive progress,' Al Harthi concluded. 'We're proud that our support is helping ambitious, growing companies fulfill their potential while driving economic transformation.' Development Bank (DB) is a key enabler of economic growth, providing innovative financing solutions to support Oman's Vision 2040 and the transition to a diversified, sustainable economy. DB offers tailored financial products and services to a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, manufacturing, renewable energy, health, education and logistics, focusing on projects that drive in-country value and job creation. Caption: H1 financing was distributed across key economic sectors that drive national development.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store