18-05-2025
Oman unveils policy for safe, ethical use of AI
Muscat – Oman has presented a document – Public Policy for the Safe and Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence Systems – setting a comprehensive regulatory framework for responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
Announced by Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), the policy aims to ensure the secure and ethical use of AI while fostering innovation and enhancing the sultanate's global competitiveness.
In a statement, the ministry said the policy integrates technical safeguards and ethical guidelines to build public trust in AI systems. It applies to all government entities and private sector institutions regulated by relevant authorities that develop or use AI technologies.
The policy covers critical areas, including systems security, ethical compliance, transparency in AI decision-making and robust data privacy protection. It also outlines legal responsibilities of stakeholders involved in AI development and deployment, and promotes fairness by guarding against bias and discrimination. Additionally, it encourages sustainable innovation that benefits society and the environment.
In parallel, MTCIT is advancing a national programme aimed at positioning the digital economy as a key driver of economic growth and competitiveness. This initiative seeks to attract foreign investment, expand digital industries and localise cutting-edge technologies in Oman.
As part of this effort, the ministry has secured several high-impact ICT projects that contribute to economic diversification and generate employment for Omani professionals and opportunities for startups.
H E Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Undersecretary in MTCIT, announced that Dhofar now hosts multiple data centre projects, representing foreign investments of up to RO80mn. These centres focus on data processing, blockchain technologies and cryptocurrency mining – areas aligned with Oman's broader digital transformation goals. The projects have led to over 25 contracts of value exceeding RO22mn being awarded to local companies.
