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Observer
29-07-2025
- Observer
A visit to reconnect with colleagues and friends
Returning to a nation, especially one where your dreams were fulfilled, stirs up a mix of joy and reflection on former times, as well as views on the present situation, creating a sense of attachment that is simultaneously comforting and reminiscent. I jot down this as I return to Oman, brimming with fond memories of my time here — the atmosphere, the locals, the country's charm... all of this inspires me to write effortlessly since there's so much to share. After being away for three years, I recently reconnected with my old colleagues at the Oman Daily Observer. It seemed like the years had vanished as we shared stories about how our lives had changed during this period. The ambiance was a blend of happiness, thrill and reminiscence, stirring a flood of memories. We updated each other on our lives, creating space to reflect on our common memories. Connecting with them again highlighted the significance of fostering relationships that transcend our professional roles! It offered an opportunity to explore their transformation and to reconnect with the shared history we have. The happiness I felt from the reunion was less about how long I had known them or how much I had missed them, and more about the emotions they evoked in me, as they were the ones who supported me during my highs and lows. I appreciate that Oman once again greeted me as a long-time friend. It is the best country to be in. Despite residing in Oman for more than 25 years, I experienced Oman as a tourist on this visit. Certainly, going back to the country you hold dear provides insight into its growth and reveals the changes in your perspective. Whenever you arrive, you receive a distinctive view of being. Situated on the south-eastern shore of the Arabian Peninsula, the country offers not only magnificent scenery and historic customs but also exemplifies peaceful international relationships and is emerging as a centre of economic prospects. With its thrilling coastlines, impressive mountains, extensive deserts and stunning architecture, the Sultanate of Oman can certainly be seen as a piece of paradise on earth. It may sound like an exaggeration, but after more than 25 years in Oman, I can surely claim that the nation reflects all these traits. My strong affection for Oman arises from both my personal experiences and professional involvement while working here. Oman hosts thousands of expatriates who appreciate working in an amazing environment that harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. It is known for being one of the safest nations in the area, with minimal crime rates, providing a feeling of security for both residents and tourists. There is no doubt that Oman's stunning and striking scenery captures the amazement of all. The relaxed way of life, the welcoming Omanis, and the agreeable climate all combine to create a wonderful place to reside. Oman's advantage is found in both affordability and quality of living. Its cities are less crowded, infrastructure is dependable, and its community ties remain strong. Muscat's combination of historic Arabian design and contemporary infrastructure immediately enchants anyone who enters the city. The amenities available and appreciated in any contemporary, cosmopolitan city can also be found in this country. With all this in mind, I will be preparing to go back to my homeland, wishing to come back to this serene, tranquil and secure nation, where the people are remarkably kind, courteous and hospitable.
Observer
25-06-2025
- Health
- Observer
The heroes of nanotech
Five years ago, a quiet first-semester student, Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed al Lawati, walked into my entrepreneurship class at Sultan Qaboos University. Today, he stands as an award-winning pioneer in nanomedicine, authoring over 20 peer-reviewed papers and leading international research teams. His remarkable journey, shared on the 10th episode of "Business Class" podcast with the Oman Daily Observer's Editor-in-Chief, Abdullah bin Salim al Shueili, reveals the passion driving Oman's unsung scientific heroes and the immense potential of nanotechnology. The Power of a Village Dr Abdullah's foundation was built at home. Raised by doctor parents who pursued knowledge globally (in Japan and Canada), he witnessed innovation firsthand while appreciating Oman's own advancements. This environment was not just supportive; it was collaborative. He co-authored research papers with his family, nurturing a profound love for discovery. Returning to Oman from Japan and Canada, he pursued medicine at SQU with a clear mission: to position his nation on the global map of life-saving innovation. "It takes a village," he emphasises, highlighting the crucial role families and communities play in igniting scientific curiosity for future generations. A Purpose Forged in Passion Dr Abdullah's drive is palpable: Contributing to saving lives. His prolific research, garnering national and international acclaim, focuses on one of healthcare's most revolutionary frontiers: nanomedicine. But what does this mean? Understanding nanotechnology can be simplified by imagining and engineering materials and devices at the scale of individual atoms and molecules – that's the nanoscale (1-100 nanometers). A human hair is about 80,000 nanometers wide. At this tiny scale, materials behave differently, unlocking unique properties. The heroes of nanotech Nanomedicine holds a high potential. This field uses nanotechnology to revolutionise treatments. Think of nanoparticles as incredibly precise delivery vehicles. They can be designed to target directly and carry drugs straight to diseased cells (like a smart missile), sparing healthy tissue. It also enhances effectiveness and delivers higher drug concentrations exactly where needed. In audio, it reduces side effects by minimising damage to healthy areas, treatments become safer and more tolerable. It also enables new diagnostics by detecting diseases earlier and more accurately using nanosensors. The global nanomedicine market, valued at over RO 57 billion and projected to double by 2030, underscores its transformative potential. Dr Abdullah is at the forefront of harnessing this power for Oman and the world. Lessons from Rough Seas The path of a doctor-scientist is rarely smooth. Dr Abdullah shared poignant moments that shaped him. The unsuccessful resuscitation of an elderly patient and facing the grieving family laid bare the profound value of life and the harsh reality of medicine's current limits. Conversely, witnessing a patient defy a terminal prognosis – living far beyond expectations – became a powerful testament to science's unexplored potential and the hope driving his research. These experiences fuel his determination to push boundaries through nanomedicine, seeking solutions where conventional methods fall short. Oman's Nobel-Worthy Future Dr Abdullah embodies the exceptional talent emerging in Oman. His journey, from an SQU classroom to the cutting-edge labs of nanomedicine, proves that passion, nurtured by family and community, can yield world-class innovation. His work is not just about awards; it's about pioneering treatments that could save countless lives. Oman possesses such promising minds, capable of Nobel-worthy breakthroughs. It is our collective duty – media, institutions, businesses and the public – to cultivate an environment of "meaningful curiosity", actively support research and champion these young heroes. By investing in them, we invest in a healthier, more innovative future for Oman and humanity. Dr Abdullah is not just a researcher; he is a role model, proving that tiny technology can lead to giant leaps for mankind.
Zawya
19-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Integrated clusters key to fuelling Oman's economic diversification
MUSCAT: The establishment of an integrated economic cluster model is key to achieving economic diversification, attracting investments and supporting employment creation, according to Dr Nasser bin Rashid al Maawali, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy. In an interview with Oman Arabic, the sister Arabic paper of Oman Daily Observer, Dr Al Maawali said the clusters in question are part of the government's National Economic Diversification Strategy, incorporated within the TANWEEA programme, under the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–2025). Shedding light on the programme, the Under-Secretary said: 'The national economy, guided by objectives set out in Oman Vision 2040, aims to achieve an economic transformation by focusing on diversification based on technology, knowledge and innovation. To accelerate the pace of economic diversification, Oman, under the supervision of the Ministry of Economy, has launched the National Programme for Diversification (TANWEEA), which focuses on enhancing the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national economy. The programme emphasizes promising sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and technology, aiming to create a significant shift towards a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and global competitiveness. This strategy strengthens Oman's ability to adapt to global economic changes and achieve economic sustainability.' The TANWEEA Programme, Dr Al Maawali stated, serves as a strategic pillar in Oman's efforts to achieve economic diversification and strengthen the national economy as part of Oman Vision 2040. It promotes integration between different economic sectors through policies and executive programmes that attract new investments and identify promising investment opportunities, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Besides supporting Oman's Tenth Five-Year Plan, TANWEEA also aligns with the goals of the Eleventh Five-Year Plan, focusing on utilising Oman's comparative advantages and developing underutilised sectors. Among the programme's key outcomes is the launch of strategic projects, such as the economic and financial framework study conducted by the Ministry of Economy regarding Oman's transition away from oil and gas by 2050. The study aims to set supportive policies for developing promising sectors like fisheries, mining industries and green hydrogen, alongside developing integrated infrastructure initiatives such as ports and logistics supply chains. Additionally, the programme proposes the establishment of five integrated economic clusters in various regions to boost development and attract investments. The first is the Najd Agricultural Cluster in Dhofar, which aims to establish an agricultural-industrial food city to enhance food security. Announced in 2023, the initiative is spearheaded by OIA's investment arm Oman Food Investment Holding Company (Nitaj), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. The cluster aims to develop a comprehensive economic system by integrating all industrial, logistical and agricultural facilities. Likewise, the Duqm Logistics Cluster within the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), seeks to leverage Duqm's deep-sea port, airport, road infrastructure combined with its proximity to Middle Eastern, East African and Indian markets, to attract global investments in logistics and industry. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
18-03-2025
- Business
- Observer
Integrated clusters key to fuelling Oman's economic diversification
MUSCAT: The establishment of an integrated economic cluster model is key to achieving economic diversification, attracting investments and supporting employment creation, according to Dr Nasser bin Rashid al Maawali, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy. In an interview with Oman Arabic, the sister Arabic paper of Oman Daily Observer, Dr Al Maawali said the clusters in question are part of the government's National Economic Diversification Strategy, incorporated within the TANWEEA programme, under the Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–2025). Shedding light on the programme, the Under-Secretary said: 'The national economy, guided by objectives set out in Oman Vision 2040, aims to achieve an economic transformation by focusing on diversification based on technology, knowledge and innovation. To accelerate the pace of economic diversification, Oman, under the supervision of the Ministry of Economy, has launched the National Programme for Diversification (TANWEEA), which focuses on enhancing the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national economy. The programme emphasizes promising sectors such as tourism, manufacturing and technology, aiming to create a significant shift towards a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation and global competitiveness. This strategy strengthens Oman's ability to adapt to global economic changes and achieve economic sustainability.' The TANWEEA Programme, Dr Al Maawali stated, serves as a strategic pillar in Oman's efforts to achieve economic diversification and strengthen the national economy as part of Oman Vision 2040. It promotes integration between different economic sectors through policies and executive programmes that attract new investments and identify promising investment opportunities, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Besides supporting Oman's Tenth Five-Year Plan, TANWEEA also aligns with the goals of the Eleventh Five-Year Plan, focusing on utilising Oman's comparative advantages and developing underutilised sectors. Among the programme's key outcomes is the launch of strategic projects, such as the economic and financial framework study conducted by the Ministry of Economy regarding Oman's transition away from oil and gas by 2050. The study aims to set supportive policies for developing promising sectors like fisheries, mining industries and green hydrogen, alongside developing integrated infrastructure initiatives such as ports and logistics supply chains. Additionally, the programme proposes the establishment of five integrated economic clusters in various regions to boost development and attract investments. The first is the Najd Agricultural Cluster in Dhofar, which aims to establish an agricultural-industrial food city to enhance food security. Announced in 2023, the initiative is spearheaded by OIA's investment arm Oman Food Investment Holding Company (Nitaj), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. The cluster aims to develop a comprehensive economic system by integrating all industrial, logistical and agricultural facilities. Likewise, the Duqm Logistics Cluster within the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), seeks to leverage Duqm's deep-sea port, airport, road infrastructure combined with its proximity to Middle Eastern, East African and Indian markets, to attract global investments in logistics and industry.
