Oman targets foreign investment to expand AI and digital services

Oman is seeking to attract international investment into artificial intelligence (AI), data centres, cloud computing and advanced telecommunications as it looks to expand its digital economy and strengthen the contribution of technology to economic diversification.

The strategy focuses on attracting global capital, localising high-value activities and building the capacity to export digital services to regional and international markets, according to a report published by Oman Daily Observer on October 14.

Aladdin Baitfadhil, Chief Executive Officer of Omantel, said generative AI adoption in the region was moving from ambition to implementation, creating investment opportunities across the technology value chain.

These opportunities extend beyond digital infrastructure to data sovereignty, enterprise and consumer applications, and start-ups developing solutions for the emerging AI ecosystem.

Oman is pursuing foreign investment and international partnerships to accelerate infrastructure development, attract advanced technologies and expertise, and create opportunities for domestic businesses to participate in expanding digital value chains.

Oman positions itself as a regional digital hub

Oman’s geographic location and existing infrastructure could strengthen its position as a destination for digital investment, according to Bocar Ba, Chief Executive Officer of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council.

Speaking to Oman Daily Observer, Ba said the country had the potential to serve as a regional platform for telecommunications, space-related activities and broader digital development, including AI, cloud computing and fifth-generation (5G) networks, with sixth-generation (6G) technologies expected to follow.

The Leaders’ AXIS 2026 conference provided a platform for Omani stakeholders to present investment opportunities and priorities to international participants. It also enabled companies exploring expansion in Oman and the wider region to identify potential partners, assess connectivity requirements and discuss long-term collaboration.

Infrastructure investment requires business readiness

Alongside infrastructure and international connectivity, Oman is seeking to create an operating environment that enables companies to establish and scale commercially viable businesses.

Abdulrahman Saud al Humaimi, Zone Services Manager at the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), highlighted the importance of business opportunities and operational readiness in attracting investors.

Investment decisions depend on more than infrastructure availability, requiring an integrated ecosystem supported by project readiness, regulatory clarity, reliable energy supplies, skilled workers, market demand and coordination among relevant institutions.

These factors will be important in translating investment in digital infrastructure into sustainable commercial activity and wider economic benefits.

Digital exports key to economic diversification

Oman’s investment priorities reflect a broader effort to capture more of the economic value generated by expanding digital infrastructure and demand for technology services.

Growth in data centres, cloud computing, AI-enabled services and advanced telecommunications could attract long-term capital while creating opportunities for local suppliers, technology companies and skilled professionals.

However, the country’s ability to secure a larger share of the digital economy will depend on converting infrastructure investment into domestic business participation, technology transfer, employment and digital service exports.

Building stronger links with regional and international markets will also be important as Oman seeks to establish itself as a base for companies serving the wider digital economy.