Oman commissions Mideast's first Circularity Gap Report
Underscoring Oman's commitment to fostering the growth of a circular economy, the Ministry of Economy has tapped Circle Economy, a global circularity foundation behind the internationally acclaimed Circularity Gap Report (CGR), to undertake the production of the first-ever report on the Sultanate of Oman.
Preparatory work on 'CGR-Oman', envisaged as a definitive roadmap charting the country's pathway to circularity by 2040, will be kicked off this week in conjunction with the Oman Sustainability Week 2025, which opens in Muscat today, May 12, 2025.
'The Ministry of Economy of Oman has commissioned the Circularity Gap Report Oman, in partnership with Circle Economy,' the Amsterdam-based think-tank announced in a recent post.
'This trailblazing initiative aims to: Support the development of Oman's Circular Economy National Roadmap and advance the country's vision of a green and circular economy by 2040; Provide strategic insights to reposition the waste sector as a driver of economic growth; and Measure Oman's circularity baseline and its potential, allowing for strengthening circular economy policies and aligning them with international standards and climate objectives,' the Foundation added.
A coalition of industry experts and stakeholder representatives – dubbed the CGR Oman coalition – will hold its first roundtable this week against the backdrop of Oman Sustainability Week 2025.
Circle Economy, based in the Netherlands, describes itself as a global impact organisation that seeks to empower businesses, cities and nations with practical and scalable solutions to put the circular economy into action. Its ultimate goal is to enable the doubling of global circularity by 2032, up from a dismal 6.9 per cent presently.
'More and more countries are recognising the circular economy as a means to make their economies more competitive, improve living conditions for growing populations, help meet emissions targets and avoid deforestation. But how countries reach an ecologically safe and socially just development space for their people varies greatly. The Circularity Gap Report for Countries provides insight into the best interventions to boost circularity on a national level and the tools to monitor progress,' it explained on its website.
First unveiled in 2012 during the World Economic Forum in Davos, around the dozen countries have since engaged Circle Economy to produce Circularity Gap Reports on their respective national performances benchmarked against a global circularity score.
The list includes Austria, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Poland, Ireland, Scotland, United Kingdom, Quebec (Canada) and India. Slated to join this august list is the Sultanate of Oman – the first country in the Middle East to seek an assessment of its circularity performance, backed by a national strategy to take it to world-class levels by 2040.
'The Circularity Gap Reports highlight the urgent need to transition to a circular economy. We aim to empower key decision makers in both government and business to coordinate action to accelerate that transition. We do this by measuring current states of circularity and by bringing together stakeholders from businesses, governments, academia and NGOs to input and evaluate our findings on the state of the transition based on the latest scientific evidence,' the Foundation added.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Observer
14 hours ago
- Observer
Pact to advance urban air mobility in Oman
MUSCAT, JUNE 6 AeroVecto, an Oman-based startup specialising in sustainable air mobility solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Romanian-based LYNEports, a digital planning platform for advanced air mobility infrastructure, to support the rollout of hybrid electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aviation services in Oman and the wider GCC region. The partnership is set to take advanced air mobility services, currently in its nascency in Oman, to the next level. A number of Omani startups, in partnership with key players in the global international, are gearing up to introduce uncrewed air mobility services for, among other fields, cargo deliveries, passenger transportation, ambulance services, medical deliveries and even disaster relief. AeroVecto is credited with developing Shuttle, a hybrid eVTOL aircraft purposely built for mass public transportation. According to the company, the high-capacity aircraft will enhance current ground-based public transport by enabling convenient point-to-point travel. With a focus on passenger volume and comfort, Shuttle aims to revolutionise urban and intercity mobility, introducing a new era of clean, efficient and scalable air transport. Through the partnership, LYNEports will assist in planning and simulating AeroVecto's Shuttle network, ensuring each site meets aviation-grade safety standards, operational viability and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, by leveraging LYNEports' AI-driven platform, AeroVecto can evaluate ideal locations, model flight routes and visualise integrated transport systems, accelerating the adoption of advanced air mobility across Oman. 'At AeroVecto, our vision is to make high-capacity aerial commuting a practical reality for cities across the region. We are excited to partner with LYNEports to advance vertiport planning and route optimisation of the Shuttle network, enabling efficient urban air transport for the masses,' said Fahad al Riyami, CEO of AeroVecto, in a statement. 'We're excited to support AeroVecto in bringing their innovative vision to life,' said Rasha Alshami, CEO of LYNEports. 'Their commitment to solving real public transport challenges in the region aligns perfectly with our mission to make AAM infrastructure accessible, safe and well-planned from day one.' AeroVecto's vision extends beyond aircraft development; the company is also designing "Shuttle Hubs" — dedicated vertiports strategically located in urban centres, coastal areas and atop buildings to facilitate seamless boarding and integration with existing transport networks. The Shuttle platform includes variants for cargo delivery, emergency response and premium travel, showcasing its versatility across sectors. Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) has initiated the formulation of a national AAM strategy. This strategy focuses on integrating drones and electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into urban transport systems to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity. Last July, Oman's national passenger transportation company Mwasalat announced a partnership with US VTOL aircraft manufacturer Odys Aviation to support the development of Aerial Logistics Programmes in the GCC based on the latter's hybrid-electric VTOL aircraft, Laila. Additionally, with the goal of supporting workforce development linked to this emerging sector, a leading college in Muscat has announced a partnership with aircraft maker Boeing to launch the an Air Taxis and Advanced Air Mobility programme designed to provide undergraduate aviation students with opportunities for research, curriculum enrichment and participation in business challenges related to urban air mobility. Together with regulatory support from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and other stakeholder agencies, these developments underscore Oman's ambitions to become a regional leader in advanced air mobility. HIGHLIGHTS Oman is making significant strides in developing its Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, aligning with the Oman Vision 2040 goals for sustainable and smart transportation
Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
A Celebration of Heritage and Friendship
The moment you stepped into the grand hall of the Sheraton Hotel in Muscat on June 4, 2025, there was an immediate sense of vibrancy and warmth that filled the air. As if the colours of over 7,000 islands had gathered in one place, the entrance was lined with stalls bursting with Filipino cuisine, each offering traditional dishes that beckoned like an invitation—aromatic, colourful, and full of stories. The lively chatter and infectious smile of Filipinos—posters, banners, and handmade crafts—created an atmosphere that felt more like a lively festival than a formal celebration. The sights and smells pulled everyone into a shared experience: a moment to honour history, culture, and ongoing friendship. This event, which brought together representatives from both nations at the Sheraton Hotel in Muscat, marked two important milestones. First, the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence—an ode to resilience, hope, and a rich cultural history rooted in shared stories of struggle and triumph. And second, the 45th year since diplomatic relations officially blossomed between the Philippines and Oman, a relationship built on cooperation, understanding, and mutual benefit. Under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Nasser Rashid al Maawali, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy of Oman, and with a delegation of distinguished officials, the event isn't just a celebration; it's a reflection of two nations that have grown ever closer across decades. Bridging Continents: 45 Years of Collaboration and Growth Looking back over the past four and a half decades, the relationship between Oman and the Philippines has expanded far beyond diplomatic courtesies. It's a journey grounded in shared economic interests, cultural exchange, and the contribution of Filipinos in Oman's development. Today, nearly 50,000 Filipinos work across Oman—teachers, engineers, healthcare workers, accountants, and service industry professionals—each one a bridge that connects the two countries through daily exchange, hard work, and friendship. Over the years, Oman and the Philippines signed several key agreements that solidified their ties. These included labour agreements ensuring the welfare of Filipino workers, cooperation in trade and investment, cultural exchanges, and collaborations in tourism. Such measures have allowed both countries to benefit from each other's strengths—Oman's strategic position and growing economy, and the Philippines' vibrant culture and human resources. In his speech, Philippine Ambassador to Oman, His Excellency Raul S. Hernandez, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Omani government. He praised Oman's ongoing support for Filipino workers and the government's commitment to maintaining a welcoming environment. Ambassador Hernandez also emphasised the importance of continuing the dialogue and cooperation to foster mutual growth, citing new opportunities that could strengthen the partnership further. A Night of Culture, Music, and Culinary Delights The highlight of this celebration was not just the speeches and formalities but the evening's programme—an immersive showcase of Filipino culture through music, dance, and food. As the night unfolded, performers from the Philippines took to the stage, revealing the rich musical repertoire that spans traditional folk songs, lively jazz, and contemporary pop. Local and overseas-based Filipino musicians, many of whom are promising talents, shared their craft, creating an electric and heartfelt atmosphere. Of particular cultural significance was the performance of "Singkil," a traditional dance rooted in the Muslim community of southern Philippines. The dance features intricate footwork, flowing movements, and the use of decorative umbrellas and waist bells. It tells a story of Queen Mantsa and her noble retinue, symbolising grace, strength, and the cultural diversity of the Philippines. Its inclusion in the programme was a deliberate effort to highlight the importance of Muslim heritage in Filipino history—an acknowledgment of the country's diversity and the unity within its different communities. Adding to the evening's vibrancy were performances by students from the Philippine School in Oman. Their participation demonstrated the enthusiasm and pride of the Filipino youth in sharing their culture and storytelling traditions with the wider Omani community—further cementing the bonds that communities help forge between nations. On the culinary front, guests were treated to a selection of beloved Filipino dishes. The aroma of crispy fried adobo, rich kare-kare with its peanut sauce, and freshly prepared lumpia drifted through the hall. Desserts like leche flan, halo-halo, and beautifully crafted Filipino sweets were shared, delighting guests from Oman and the Philippines alike. The Omani attendees, some trying Filipino delicacies for the first time, expressed their approval and eagerness to explore more. The food was not just a taste but a sensory journey into Filipino life and culture, stirring conversations and some good-natured comparisons with local Omani cuisine.
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- Times of Oman
Nizwa: sustainable development bridging heritage and investment horizons
Nizwa — The Wilayat of Nizwa in the Governorate of A'Dakhiliyah stands as one of Oman's most prominent cultural and touristic destinations, renowned for its rich historical legacy and archaeological landmarks that chronicle significant chapters of the nation's past. Its distinctive architectural and heritage sites beautifully encapsulate Oman's authentic cultural identity. The iconic Nizwa Fort dominates the historical landscape as a masterpiece of traditional Omani architecture and engineering. Adjacent to the fort, the vibrant Nizwa Souq (market) showcases exceptional local craftsmanship, from intricately forged daggers and handcrafted silverware to traditional markets selling livestock, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Falaj Daris, recognized on UNESCO's World Heritage list as one of Oman's largest aflaj irrigation systems, represents another jewel in Nizwa's heritage crown. This ancient water network sustains extensive agricultural lands while demonstrating centuries-old Omani ingenuity in sustainable water management. The recent development of a public garden within the falaj has further enhanced its ecological and touristic value. Nizwa's strategic geographical location, combined with its diverse topography of wadis (valleys), mountains, and verdant oases, has established it as a prime destination for cultural and eco-tourism. These natural assets, along with progressive development initiatives, have positioned the Wilayat of Nizwa as an attractive investment hub for tourism and infrastructure projects. Nizwa has achieved remarkable progress in sustainable development through Strategic initiatives have been launched in Nizwa in a bid to achieve remarkable progress in sustainable development. These initiatives have further enhanced urban infrastructure and quality of life. Significant development projects currently underway include A'Dakhiliyah Square launched earlier this year, an RO 7 million Integrated Public Transport Station, and restoration works in Haray Al Aqr where wall rehabilitation stands 65% complete with pathway paving 20% finished. The Public Garden Project has reached 40% completion, collectively aiming to elevate Nizwa's status as Oman's premier cultural-tourism destination while creating new economic opportunities. Harat Al Aqr (an old neighborhood renovated by the locals) has transformed into a flagship example of youth empowerment, hosting 78 entrepreneurial ventures that have generated over 300 jobs for young Omanis. This revitalization has turned the historical quarter into a dynamic center for innovation and traditional crafts, featuring heritage cafes, artisanal shops, private museums, restored guesthouses, and classic car exhibitions. The area's cultural renaissance has dramatically increased property values from RO 10 to RO 1,500 per square meter and now attracts over 20 official delegations annually. Sheikh Saleh Thiyab Al Rubaie, Wali of Nizwa, emphasized to Oman News Agency (ONA) that developmental projects are strategically designed to strengthen local economies while preserving cultural heritage. He noted Nizwa's unique historical assets perfectly position it to benefit from sustainable tourism and knowledge-based economic models. The Wali highlighted how historical neighborhood restoration forms a cornerstone of Nizwa's economic strategy, serving the dual purpose of safeguarding cultural identity through architectural conservation while creating employment via tourism and SME development. Nizwa Industrial City, under the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn), represents another facet of Nizwa's growth with 186 operational projects across 7.2 million square meters of developed area, attracting RO 504 million in cumulative investments and generating 6,100 jobs with a 45% Omanization rate. Eng. Ishaq Ibrahim Al Kharousi, Acting Director General, revealed Madayn's upcoming RO 1.2 million Entrepreneurial Complex and ongoing studies for an integrated residential zone within the industrial city. On her turn, Ahlam Hamad Al Qasabi, Director of Heritage and Tourism, outlined the ministry's comprehensive SME support programs including streamlined licensing procedures, specialized training initiatives, and incentive packages for heritage hospitality ventures. She noted how the conversion of historical homes into heritage inns perfectly illustrates the purple economy approach, citing 600,000 visitors to Harat Al Aqr in the first quarter of 2023 as evidence of this model's success in merging cultural preservation with economic viability. The ministry continues to prioritize fortress restorations and historical documentation to enhance Oman's sustainable tourism offerings while safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. This comprehensive development approach positions Nizwa as a model for balanced sustainable growth, where cultural heritage preservation and modern economic development progress hand in hand, creating new opportunities while maintaining the unique identity. —— Ends/AH
