Oman hosts global journalists to showcase Musandam's potentials
The tour was conducted to spotlight the governorate's rich cultural, historical, and natural diversity while showcasing its economic and social development.
In collaboration with the Office of the Governor of Musandam, the delegation explored key landmarks, gaining insights into the region's rapid growth in tourism, investment, and infrastructure.
During a special briefing, Sayyid Ibrahim bin Saeed al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam, outlined the governorate's strategic vision for sustainable development, emphasising its ambition to become a premier investment and tourism destination.
He highlighted Musandam's unique location at the gateway to the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most crucial maritime routes.
The governor detailed major development projects designed to enhance connectivity, tourism, and economic diversification. These include significant infrastructure expansions, luxury hospitality projects such as the North Gate resort, and adventure tourism initiatives in Khasab.
Additionally, environmental projects focusing on green spaces and modern waterfront developments are set to elevate Musandam's appeal.
To attract investors, the governorate is offering competitive incentives, including tax and customs exemptions, along with streamlined processes for tourism and real estate ownership. These initiatives align with Oman Vision 2040's broader goal of fostering economic diversity and attracting high-value investments.
The planned projects are expected to generate new employment opportunities, strengthen the tourism sector, and upgrade essential infrastructure, positioning Musandam as a key hub for regional growth.
Beyond Musandam, the media delegation's itinerary also includes visits to Buraimi and Dhahirah governorates, further highlighting Oman's commitment to comprehensive national development.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Muscat Daily
7 hours ago
- Muscat Daily
Digitalisation driving growth of SMEs in Oman
Muscat – Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Oman are undergoing a rapid shift towards digitalisation, with experts stressing that innovation and technology adoption are becoming essential for growth and competitiveness in both local and international markets. Digital tools are enabling SMEs to cut costs, improve efficiency, and expand their reach without heavy investment in traditional infrastructure. From artificial intelligence (AI) to e-commerce platforms, businesses are leveraging new technologies to adapt to fast-changing customer needs and open new avenues for expansion. Saeed bin Jumaa al Salti, a digital transformation consultant, said digitalisation is no longer just about introducing technology but about 'a comprehensive transformation to improve operations, expand markets, and achieve continuous innovation'. He added that technologies such as AI, big data analytics, and cloud services allow SMEs to enter new markets with flexibility and speed, while enhancing decision-making and service delivery. 'SMEs can now expand their business locally and internationally without the need for massive investments in infrastructure,' Salti said. 'This creates opportunities for growth that were previously limited to large enterprises.' Maha bint Mohammed al Habsi Maha bint Mohammed al Habsi, an artificial intelligence trainer, noted that emerging technologies are now essential for SMEs aiming to grow and compete globally. 'AI, cloud computing, blockchain, and the Internet of Things are essential tools for enabling SMEs to achieve sustainable growth,' she said. 'This is no longer a luxury but a necessity in an economy that demands flexibility and efficiency.' Citing a study, Habsi said AI adoption in Oman's industrial sector has already improved productivity, inventory management, and resource allocation. She added that digital platforms are allowing even small Omani startups to export to markets in Europe and Asia. However, challenges remain. Ishaq bin Hilal al Sharyani, a specialist in training entrepreneurs, pointed out that limited funding, a shortage of digital expertise, and resistance to change continue to slow digital adoption. 'Cybersecurity and data protection also remain pressing concerns,' he said. He recommended that SMEs invest in staff training, collaborate with technology providers, and benefit from government programmes designed to support entrepreneurship and innovation. Legal advisor Mazen bin Salem al Zaidi highlighted that recent reforms in commercial dispute resolution have also helped SMEs. Simplified procedures for handling rental, labour, and contracting disputes are easing the legal burden on smaller businesses, he said, while ongoing government support reflects the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 to diversify income sources and strengthen the SME sector's role in the national economy. Experts agreed that digitalisation represents both an opportunity and a necessity for SMEs. By embracing innovation, these enterprises can not only survive but also can thrive in a competitive global economy.
Observer
8 hours ago
- Observer
Salalah to host global experts at FDI capacity-building forum
SALALAH: Oman will host next month a high-level executive forum aimed at strengthening capacities to attract and promote foreign direct investment (FDI) in Salalah. The 3-day event, set to take place during September 16 – 18, 2025, has been organised by the Smart Investment Gateway (SIG) in partnership with NXT Zones International, and will take place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Salalah. It will bring together international experts in economics and investment. The forum is designed for professionals from both the public and private sectors, including representatives of investment promotion agencies, policymakers, consultants, and executives engaged in national development initiatives. It will provide intensive training on attracting FDI clients, aligning investment projects with Oman Vision 2040, enhancing post-investment services, integrating artificial intelligence into investment promotion strategies, and designing sustainable economic zones. The three-day schedule will open with an overview of global and regional investment trends, combined with an analysis of successful projects. The second day will address strategic promotion and facilitation methods, explore legal frameworks, and examine the use of artificial intelligence in investment promotion while also emphasising interaction with local partners. The final day will be devoted to designing future-oriented economic zones and linking them with sustainable development goals and the requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The programme will feature contributions from renowned international experts. Dr. Douglas van den Berghe, Chief Executive Officer of NXTZones – NwHrzN and Vice Chairman of FEMOZA, brings more than 25 years of experience in advising governments and international institutions such as the United Nations and the World Bank. Dr Yousef bin Hamad Al Balushi, one of the architects of Oman Vision 2040 and a former regional economic advisor to the International Monetary Fund, will offer his insights on connecting investment strategies with private sector efficiency. He is also known for founding the Oman Investment Portal and serving on leading Gulf investment committees. Dr Adarsh Verma, Chief Economist with extensive experience in Europe and the Middle East, will share expertise gained through projects in over 30 countries and his work in integrating sustainable strategies into business models for special economic zones. The programme will be conducted in both Arabic and English with simultaneous translation to ensure effective participation. It draws upon methodologies and practices established in collaboration with the United Nations, the World Bank, UNCTAD and the United Nations Development Programme, offering participants direct access to the latest international tools for attracting and facilitating investment. Organisers emphasised that the initiative underscores Oman's determination to strengthen its position as a competitive destination for foreign investment, in line with the national diversification agenda and the long-term goals of Vision 2040.
Observer
8 hours ago
- Observer
Career guidance for students entering higher education: A crucial aspect
The transition from secondary education to higher education and subsequently into the workforce is a pivotal period for young individuals. For students, this transition is particularly significant given the nation's strategic focus on human capital development and economic diversification as outlined in Oman Vision 2040. As many school leavers prepare to join university life, it is essential to provide effective career guidance. This guidance plays a crucial role in equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and self-awareness necessary to navigate their academic and professional journeys successfully, ensuring alignment with national development goals and personal aspirations. One of the primary benefits of robust career guidance is its ability to bridge the gap between educational outputs and the evolving demands of the labour market. Oman, like many countries, faces the challenge of ensuring meaningful graduate employment opportunities, often due to a mismatch between the skills acquired in higher education and those required by industries. Furthermore, career guidance fosters the development of essential soft skills that are highly valued in the modern workforce. Research indicates that Omani graduates sometimes lack critical thinking, problem-solving, interpersonal communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Moreover, career guidance plays a vital role in supporting students' psychological well-being and fostering a sense of responsibility. The challenges of balancing work and study, coupled with social and psychological pressures, can lead to stress and isolation among students. Guidance services can provide strategies for time management, stress reduction, and maintaining a healthy work–life balance, thereby promoting self-discipline and maturity. By helping students understand the value of their contributions and the importance of professional ethics, career guidance contributes to their holistic development. Finally, effective career guidance facilitates stronger links between educational institutions and industry. Initiatives like the Eidaad internship programme, which places engineering students in industrial internships, demonstrate the positive impact of such collaborations on enhancing employability and practical skills. Career guidance platforms can serve as a conduit for this collaboration, providing detailed information on employment opportunities and fostering direct communication between students, educators, and potential employers. This alignment ensures that academic programmes are responsive to industry needs, ultimately benefiting both students and the national economy. Investing in comprehensive and accessible career guidance services for students is not merely an educational enhancement but a strategic imperative. It empowers individuals to make informed choices, develops critical skills, mitigates career indecision, supports personal well-being, and strengthens the vital connection between education and the labour market.
