Latest news with #OmanVision2040
Observer
10 hours ago
- Business
- Observer
The lights that speak
Muscat is now home to the largest flagpole in the country with the huge Oman national flag, measuring 25 metres in length and 44 metres in width. What gives the flagpole its scintillating appeal at night is its immaculate lighting, which includes a warning light system for aircraft using the airspace, spotlights and LED beam lights that shower an uninterrupted flow of light from all sides to the zenith of the pole. The custom-engineered LED floodlighting system was designed and supplied by Lighting Technologies (LT India) and executed with precision by Oman's Al Nabeel's Lighting Division. 'This project reflects our unwavering commitment to national excellence,' said Abdul Lathif, Managing Director of Al Nabeel International. 'Illuminating the tallest flagpole in Oman is not just a technical accomplishment; it's a tribute to the values of unity and progress that the flag represents. We are truly honoured to be part of this legacy,' added the leader of the team that illuminated the national project. What gives the flagpole its scintillating appeal at night is its immaculate lighting with uninterrupted flow of light from all sides to the zenith of the pole. While the aircraft lighting system has been credited as a pioneering model for synergising efforts and achieving multifaceted impacts, the lighting has captured the minds of spectators from various walks of society. This installation marks a significant milestone in its journey as a leader in advanced lighting solutions across Oman. From sports arenas to infrastructure projects and landmark public spaces, the company continues to raise the bar for lighting excellence in the region hand in hand with the government. 'Lighting up this iconic structure was both a challenge and a privilege,' added Linu Sreenivas, Director of Al Nabeel International. 'Our team's ability to deliver this high-precision project within tight timelines showcases our strength in engineering, coordination and execution. It's a proud moment for everyone at Al Nabeel,' he added. The lights that speak As a complete turnkey solution provider, Al Nabeel International handled the entire scope — from technical planning and supply to installation, testing and commissioning — delivering the project in record time with uncompromising quality and dedication. This helped the monumental structure now stand as a radiant symbol of the nation's pride. Giving further hope for progress and a bright future in line with Oman Vision 2040, this area will be developed into an 18,000-square-metre multipurpose project with a large space dedicated to business activities, entertainment and wellbeing. This achievement marks a milestone, the result of a successful public-private partnership, fostering collaboration between the Muscat Municipality and Jindal Shadeed Iron and Steel, according to a Muscat Municipality source. The lights that speak A representative from the Muscat Municipality, the driving force behind this historic landmark, said that the massive pole was constructed using 135 tonnes of steel with an outer diameter of 2,800 mm at its base and 900 mm at the top. Standing at a height of 126 metres into the sky, this flagpole is already renowned for its architectural brilliance, with the national flag symbolising Oman's aspirations for progress and success in line with Oman Vision 2040.
Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
World Bank support focused on enhancing Oman's investment climate
MUSCAT: The World Bank's contribution to advancing Oman's ambitious Vision 2040—a long-term strategy for economic diversification, sustainability, and global integration—has been spotlighted in a recent article on the official blogging platform of the World Bank Group. Titled 'Oman Vision 2040: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth and Global Integration,' the article is co-authored by Dr Khamis bin Saif Al Jabri, Chairman of the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, and Ousmane Dione, Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa at the World Bank. According to the article, a decades-long partnership between Oman and the World Bank has made the institution a key ally in supporting the country's shift from an oil-reliant economy to a knowledge-based, globally competitive nation. The Bank's support aligns with strategic national goals outlined in Vision 2040, spanning multiple sectors. A central pillar of this collaboration is improving the investment climate to foster private sector-led growth. To that end, the World Bank has worked closely with Omani authorities to introduce global best practices in business environment reform, adapted to local needs. These efforts are producing results: foreign direct investment is on the rise, and the regulatory framework has improved. A notable milestone is the 2020 Foreign Capital Investment Law, which eliminated minimum capital requirements and opened numerous sectors to full foreign ownership. In parallel, the World Bank Group's private sector arm—the International Finance Corporation (IFC)—has expanded its engagement in Oman by promoting sustainable finance and supporting private sector development. The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), another World Bank Group institution, played a key role in mobilizing $1.2 billion in commercial financing for infrastructure projects in the Duqm Special Economic Zone—a lynchpin in Oman's logistics and industrial diversification strategy. The partnership also extends to human capital development, a core objective of Vision 2040. The World Bank has supported education reform, helping Oman align its curriculum with future labor market demands. Investments in STEM education, vocational training, and research are aimed at boosting Oman's global education rankings, with goals to reach the top 20 by 2030 and top 10 by 2040. Sustainable development is another area of impactful collaboration. In the fisheries sector, the World Bank has helped craft a national strategy to modernize the industry from traditional fishing to a high-tech, export-driven model. This transformation is already delivering results, with the sector growing by 7.5 per cent in the first three quarters of 2024 and targeting 10 per cent annual growth, significantly contributing to Oman's non-oil GDP. The World Bank is also supporting Oman's efforts to build an entrepreneurial ecosystem that empowers youth. Initiatives such as innovation hubs, startup incubators, and public-private partnerships are helping unlock the potential of the nation's young population—64 per cent of whom are under 30. Targeted support for tech startups and workforce reforms are seen as vital steps toward leveraging this demographic advantage. Looking ahead, the road to 2040 presents both opportunities and challenges. The authors emphasize that realizing Vision 2040 will require sustained commitment, adaptability, and continued engagement with international partners. Oman's journey can serve as a model for other nations seeking to navigate uncertainty while pursuing economic diversification, sustainability, and global integration, the authors stressed. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
a day ago
- Observer
Man caught abusing reptile in Al Dhahirah
MUSCAT: The Environment Authority has taken a swift legal action after a disturbing video surfaced online showing a man abusing a spiny-tailed lizard (locally known as Dhab) in a manner deemed cruel and inhumane. The incident occurred in Al Dhahirah Governorate, where the suspect was identified and detained for violating animal welfare laws. In a statement, the authority confirmed that the man was seen placing a traditional Omani coffee cup on the back of the lizard, treating the animal as a mere prop for entertainment. The act was described as a violation of both moral values and national laws protecting wildlife and animal rights in Oman. The case has been referred to the Public Prosecution, and the authority has pledged to take all necessary legal measures to ensure accountability. The Environment Authority condemned the behaviour, stressing that such actions do not reflect the ethics of Omani society, which is known for its respect towards nature and all living beings. It reiterated its firm commitment to enforcing the law against anyone who mistreats wildlife in any form. 'Such acts are incompatible with the humanitarian principles and values upheld by our society,' the statement read. 'We will not tolerate any form of abuse against animals and will continue to pursue violators through the legal system.' Oman has established comprehensive legal frameworks to safeguard its diverse ecosystems and endangered species. The abuse or exploitation of wild animals for entertainment or display is strictly prohibited under national legislation, including the Environment Protection and Pollution Control Law. Environmental experts say that reptiles like the Dhab play an important role in the desert ecosystem, and harming them can disrupt ecological balance. 'It's not just about one animal — it's about respecting an entire system of life that supports our environment,' said Dr Abdullah al Dhahri, an ecology professor. The incident has reignited debate about the impact of social media on public behaviour, particularly when individuals seek online attention through irresponsible content. Activists and civil society organisations are calling for stricter guidelines for wildlife-related content and stronger public awareness campaigns. 'People must understand that kindness to animals is a mark of a civilised society,' said Maryam al Balushi, an environmental advocate. 'We need more outreach in schools, media and online platforms to cultivate a culture of empathy towards animals.' The Environment Authority has urged the public to report any behaviour that harms wildlife, emphasising that protecting biodiversity is a national responsibility. Surveillance of digital platforms will continue, the authority said, as part of broader efforts aligned with Oman Vision 2040 to promote environmental sustainability. The incident serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical conduct towards animals. Wildlife is not for amusement, and treating creatures with compassion is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative.
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
be'ah and Sohar University conclude research project
SUHAR: The Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah) has announced the successful completion of a national joint research project with Sohar University titled 'Awareness Study on Food Waste in the Sultanate of Oman.' The initiative aims to enhance public awareness and reduce food waste in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Oman Vision 2040. Launched in November 2024 under the leadership of Profe Rakesh Belwal from the Faculty of Business at Sohar University, the project focused on developing and implementing a scientifically validated Household Food Waste Awareness (HFWA) scale, based on comprehensive fieldwork conducted across Oman's governorates. The research process involved designing and testing awareness scale using advanced analytical tools, in addition to conducting extensive surveys and focus group discussions with citizens, students and employees. The resulting database provides a solid foundation for future environmental education initiatives and policy recommendations. The project was formally concluded with a closing ceremony held at be'ah's headquarters in Muscat, where key findings were presented and the research team was honoured. Prof Belwal emphasised the project's dual contribution to knowledge production and the training of national talent, highlighting the involvement of 20 student research assistants from Sohar University who gained valuable field and analytical experience. Dr Hamdan al Fazari, Vice-Chancellor of Sohar University, praised the team's efforts and reaffirmed the university's commitment to impactful, application-driven research that serves national priorities. Dr Farah al Barwani, Senior Manager of Research and Development at be'ah, described the project as a powerful example of the company's strategic commitment to waste reduction.
Observer
a day ago
- Business
- Observer
Omran Group pulls in RO 156m in FDI in 2024
The Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) has announced strong financial and operational results, underscoring the Group's sustained efforts and corporate excellence in advancing tourism development and supporting sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman, in close collaboration with key stakeholders. In 2024, the Group recorded a net profit of RO 25.2 million and total revenues exceeding RO 58.3 million, reflecting operational efficiency and the high standards of excellence embraced across its business operations. These achievements were presented during the Group's recent Board of Directors meeting, where the Board reaffirmed its continued commitment to reinforcing the Group's role in advancing economic diversification and amplifying its impact as a key catalyst for tourism development and investment in the Sultanate. Demonstrating its ability to attract high-quality investments, Omran Group secured over RO 156 million in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) during 2024. This achievement aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and the national efforts to boost FDI inflows and enhance the contribution of various economic sectors to the GDP. In the hospitality sector, the Group continued to demonstrate operational excellence, welcoming 820,365 guests across its hotel portfolio in 2024 — a 6 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The portfolio achieved an average occupancy rate of 45 per cent, marking a 2.6 per cent increase year-on-year. A major milestone was achieved with the official opening of JW Marriott Muscat, further enriching the luxury hospitality landscape in the Sultanate of Oman. As part of its efforts to position Oman as a premier luxury tourism destination on the global map and to attract the world's leading hospitality brands, Omran Group announced several strategic projects, most notably the Middle East's first Club Med Resort that will be developed in Musandam, and the signing of a strategic partnership with Santani Wellness Resorts to introduce wellness tourism in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and local value creation, the Group achieved a 40 per cent In-Country Value Index in 2024, with total spending exceeding RO 19 million in support of SMEs, which accounted for 34.7% of overall procurement spending. Furthermore, the Group created 370 new job opportunities for local talents, achieving an Omanisation rate of 94% within Oman Tourism Development Company SAOC and 53 per cent across the Group, highlighting its dedication to empowering national talent and supporting the local economy. In line with its vision to enhance corporate governance practices, Omran Group launched its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework during the year, reinforcing its commitment to global sustainability standards, transparency, and excellence across all its operations and projects. The positive results achieved by Omran Group in 2024 reaffirm its leading role as a catalyst for tourism development in the Sultanate of Oman. Through pioneering projects, strategic partnerships, and innovative initiatives, the Group continues to strengthen its position and contribute to Oman's journey towards a diversified and sustainable economy
