Latest news with #AlShueili
Observer
a day ago
- Science
- Observer
Space Engineering Lab under development in Oman
MUSCAT, JUNE 3 The National Space Programme is currently developing a space engineering laboratory in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University (SQ), according to a key official associated with the initiative. Dr Saud bin Humaid al Shueili, Head of the National Space Programme at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), the Space Engineering Lab initiative underscores Oman's investment in local talent and research. 'Oman has the personal talent and the Universities in the country with the clear potential to deliver and sustain a space industry. The national space programme is working closely with Sultan Qaboos University to develop the Oman Space Engineering Laboratory. This is an important national project for developing domestic capability and building space skills for the Omani population. Oman has many excellent universities producing graduates in relevant science subjects,' Dr Al Shueili added in an interview featured in SpaceTech Gulf. The official also shared that the programme is working closely with academic establishments and the private sector to explore opportunities for incorporating space education into existing courses. 'The National Programme is working with private companies and universities to understand how we can further integrate space specific elements into existing courses such as engineers, data science, and GIS,' he added. Capacity building has been identified as a key pillar of the Oman Space Policy and Executive Programme, a 10-year framework aimed at positioning Oman as a regional and global hub for space applications. The policy outlines a national strategy to upskill graduates, embed space content into academic programmes, and strengthen academia-industry cooperation. It also encourages the creation of mentorship, business coaching, and technical training opportunities that reflect real market demand. Last September, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology unveiled a tender for the development of a space accelerator programme which aims to support entrepreneurs and local startups in the sector by providing resources, funding and guidance to help them expand and bring innovative products to the local and global markets. According to the ministry, the programme will focus on various activities in the space sector including communications, earth observation, geospatial analytics, drones, artificial intelligence and machine learning, big data processing, data storage and preservation, space sustainability and spacecraft simulation.
Al Bawaba
4 days ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
A Reflection of Deepening Collaboration: Omani Minister of Housing Conducts Official Visit to Diyar Al Muharraq
Diyar Al Muharraq, the largest urban development company in the Kingdom of Bahrain, had the honor of welcoming His Excellency Dr. Khalfan bin Saeed Al-Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning of the Sultanate of Oman, along with his esteemed delegation, on an official visit aimed at fostering knowledge exchange and exploring best practices within the real estate development sector. His Excellency was received by Mr. Abdulhakeem Yaqoob Al Khayyat, Chairman of Diyar Al Muharraq, and Eng. Ahmed Ali Alammadi, Chief Executive Officer of the visit commenced with a tour of Souq Al Baraha, a traditional-modern marketplace capturing the essence of Bahraini culture while offering a vibrant retail experience that blends heritage, commerce, and community. The delegation also viewed the show villa at Deerat Al Oyoun — one of Diyar Al Muharraq's key residential developments dedicated to Bahraini citizens. The project is characterized by its functional design and integrated environment that caters to the needs of Bahraini families within a stable and urban was followed by a visit to the show villa at Al Naseem, a high-end residential and retail waterfront development. The delegation was briefed on the project's refined architectural design and high-quality construction standards. The tour also encompassed Al Naseem Social Hub, featuring a range of recreational and social amenities with a focus on providing enriching community interaction and their tour, the delegation explored the show villa at Al Bareh, one of Diyar's most exclusive residential communities, characterized by serene waterfront views and contemporary design that combines privacy with tranquility. The visit concluded at Marassi Galleria, the flagship retail and leisure destination hosting a curated selection of global brands, dining outlets, and entertainment facilities, positioning it as a major attraction at the heart of Diyar Al visit served as a significant platform for meaningful dialogue and mutual learning, during which the Chairman of Diyar Al Muharraq presented a comprehensive overview of the city's strategic vision. The presentation highlighted the key principles that shape Diyar as a model of sustainable urban development, and detailed the advanced approaches adopted in planning and executing integrated residential and commercial projects supported by smart infrastructure that enhances the quality of life in an inclusive urban return, the Omani delegation shared insightful perspectives and pioneering experiences from the Sultanate in the areas of housing and urban planning. These exchanges fostered a rich and productive dialogue focused on sharing best practices and innovative development models, underscoring the shared commitment to collaboration and the pursuit of common development goals. The visit further emphasized the strong ties between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman. His Excellency also shared details on a number of vital and strategic projects currently underway in Oman that reflect the Sultanate's forward-looking vision for urban development. Among these was the notable Sultan Haitham City project, a leading regional initiative distinguished by its integrated urban planning, modern infrastructure, and sustainable approach.
Daily News Egypt
25-05-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
TMG deal embodies vision for enhanced global partnerships: Oman Housing Minister
An agreement with Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) embodies the Sultanate of Oman's vision for enhanced partnerships with major global corporations, Oman's Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, Khalfan bin Saeed Al Shueili, has stated. Al Shueili made the comments following the signing of two partnership and investment development agreements with TMG, a prominent real estate and tourism project developer in Egypt and the Middle East. He emphasised that this collaboration will contribute to accelerating smart urban development, providing a sustainable urban environment responsive to citizens' aspirations, and supporting national economic diversification efforts. 'We are moving forward with implementing strategic projects within Sultan Haitham City, a cornerstone of Oman's future urban development,' the Minister added. 'We are focused on attracting high-caliber investments that meet global standards for smart city development, thereby enhancing the quality of life and fostering a balanced societal economy. This agreement is a concrete example of this ambitious development strategy.' Hisham Talaat Moustafa, CEO and Managing Director of TMG, expressed his pride in the Group's entry into the Omani market through a strategic agreement to develop two flagship projects. These projects, according to Moustafa, will be developed simultaneously on two land plots west of the capital, Muscat, and will be interconnected by an electric tram. The agreement is set to accelerate the development of Sultan Haitham City, solidifying its status as a pioneering development model both regionally and globally. This reflects an integration of smart infrastructure with an advanced urban vision. Furthermore, this partnership underscores the Sultanate of Oman's capacity to attract high-value investments and capital that generate tangible economic and social outcomes.
Observer
21-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Shura meeting reviews housing, urban initiatives
MUSCAT, APRIL 21 On Monday, the Majlis Ash'shura hosted Dr Khalfan bin Said al Shueili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, during the ninth regular session of the second regular session of the tenth term. The session focused on the ministry's statement, which covered several key initiatives aimed at shaping the future of Oman's urban and housing landscape. Dr Al Shueili presented the ministry's ongoing projects and highlighted five key areas in the statement: the National Urban Development Strategy, the programmes of the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), legislation and laws regulating the urban and housing planning sector, digital transformation and simplified procedures, and addressing future challenges and opportunities in developing sustainable cities and integrated urban neighbourhoods. In his speech, Dr Al Shueili emphasised that the ministry is working in alignment with Oman Vision 2040 and the National Strategy for Sustainable Development. The urban strategy is being integrated with the directives of the five-year plans, ensuring that urban growth and development meet the aspirations of Oman's future. He stressed the ministry's commitment to achieving balanced urban growth while promoting environmental sustainability and the diversification of the economy. Badr al Jabri, a member of Majlis Ash'shura, noted that housing is one of the most critical issues affecting citizens' daily lives. He highlighted that providing adequate and diverse housing options for citizens is a core mission of the ministry. The ministry aims to ensure that all segments of society have access to suitable housing through various programmes, such as 'Choose Your Land', 'Buy Your Land', and integrated residential neighbourhoods. A significant part of the ministry's efforts involves fostering effective partnerships between the public and private sectors. The ministry has successfully registered 90 developers for real estate development projects and granted 20 licences for such projects between 2022 and 2024. These initiatives have led to an investment value of RO 500 million for integrated residential and neighbourhood projects. The ministry's efforts in this area aim to ensure sustainable urban growth while strengthening the economy. In line with its focus on innovation and efficiency, the ministry has made substantial progress in its digital transformation. As of 2024, approximately 85 automated services have been introduced, facilitating citizens' access to essential services through electronic platforms. This transformation has seen a leap in the ministry's performance, with a rating increase from 58 per cent in 2022 to 80 per cent in 2024. The ministry's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its push to develop smart cities that align with the latest sustainability standards. Dr Al Shueili explained that the ministry is working to ensure that future cities are built on advanced technology and integrated residential neighbourhoods, which will enhance the ability of governorates to accommodate population growth in a modern and sustainable manner. To ensure efficient land use, the ministry has planned and prepared 49,018 plots for various uses, including residential, commercial and industrial purposes. Between 2021 and 2024, 69,963 plots of land and residential units were distributed under the Housing Options Programme, benefiting thousands of citizens. The ministry has allocated 216 housing units within integrated residential neighbourhoods and plans to allocate an additional 1,000 units in the Sultan Haitham City. This extensive distribution of residential options aims to support family stability and social cohesion. The ministry has also focused on maximising the role of the real estate market by facilitating transparent and competitive land use services. Between 2022 and 2025, 2,189 plots of land for commercial, residential, industrial and agricultural use will be offered, further stimulating economic activity and attracting investment. The ministry has already processed 375,132 transactions, amounting to over RO 10 billion in value between 2021 and 2024. The ministry's efforts are pivotal in creating a modern, sustainable and efficient urban landscape for Oman. Through its strategic focus on urban development, digital transformation and public-private partnerships, the ministry is working to provide Omani citizens with diverse housing options, ensure economic growth and promote sustainability, all while aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
Observer
01-03-2025
- Science
- Observer
Oman harnesses astronomy for national identity
MUSCAT, March 1 The Sultanate of Oman is reaping significant benefits from the fields of astronomy and astrophysics, according to Dr Ishaq bin Yahya al Shueili, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Omani Society for Astronomy and Space. Speaking to Observer on the sidelines of the first workshop on 'How Oman Has Benefited from Astronomical Science in Tackling Navigation, Seafaring, Distribution of Aflaj, Fishing and Agriculture,' Dr Al Shueili emphasised the crucial role of preserving Oman's astronomical heritage in strengthening national identity and fostering scientific progress. The workshop, held at the National Museum under the auspices of Salim bin Mohammed al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism, brought together a distinguished group of scientists, researchers and enthusiasts of astronomical heritage. The discussions centred on how the ancestors of Oman skillfully applied astronomical knowledge to govern daily life — from navigation and seafaring to agriculture, irrigation systems and even fishing practices. Dr Al Shueili highlighted how this ancient knowledge continues to serve as a foundation for modern scientific endeavours, contributing to Oman's growth and development. 'In alignment with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which emphasises the preservation of national identity, Oman's astronomical heritage stands as a testament to our ancestors' profound understanding of astronomy, heritage and culture. These aspects are critical in shaping the future and preserving them is essential for advancing scientific research and innovation, which are integral to the progress of society,' Dr Al Shueili stated. He further explained that the preservation of this heritage extends beyond simply documenting the past — it's an essential strategy for strengthening Oman's future, ensuring that modern advancements are grounded in a deep cultural understanding. Dr Al Shueili also emphasised the significance of astronomical science in regulating essential aspects of Omani life, from managing agricultural practices and the distribution of aflaj (irrigation systems) to facilitating seafaring navigation. By safeguarding this astronomical knowledge, Oman ensures that these practices continue to enrich both the country's cultural heritage and its scientific pursuits. A key highlight of the workshop was the launch of a national initiative aimed at documenting Oman's astronomical heritage. This initiative seeks to collect and preserve traditional astronomical knowledge while promoting the contributions of Omanis to the field. The goal is not only to protect this invaluable heritage for future generations but also to bridge the past with the present and future, enabling Oman to continue reaping the benefits of ancestral wisdom while advancing modern astronomical studies. The workshop featured the presentation of nine papers by leading astro-scientists, addressing various topics, including how stargazing can aid in predicting weather patterns, improve agricultural practices and enhance fishing techniques. Other papers focused on the historical role of astronomy in guiding navigation, seafaring and the distribution of aflaj. One of the key presentations came from Ali bin Salem al Ubais, an astro-scientist from Dhofar, who shared insights on navigation and astro-science. He underscored the importance of preserving Oman's national identity and its connection to astronomical heritage as a means of empowering future generations. 'It is vital that we preserve our astronomical heritage and national identity within the framework of Oman Vision 2040. This allows us to make significant strides in preserving, documenting and globally sharing our heritage, positioning Oman as a regional and international leader in astro-science,' Al Ubais said. The symposium served as an important platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas among scientific disciplines, raising awareness about the role of Oman's astronomical heritage in shaping key aspects of daily life. The event underscored the need to educate future generations on the value of this heritage, from its influence on agriculture and navigation to its impact on weather prediction and fishing practices. Furthermore, the symposium highlighted the importance of recognising and documenting the contributions of Omani scientists in the field of astronomy, especially as some aspects of this heritage face the risk of being lost to time. The event concluded with a call to preserve this integral part of Oman's heritage, ensuring that future generations will continue to benefit from this rich cultural and scientific knowledge.
