Conclusion of the National Digital Economy Program in Muscat Governorate
Today, the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology concluded an introductory tour of the National Digital Economy Program in Muscat Governorate. The tour included the participation of the Central Bank of Oman, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, in cooperation with the Muscat Governor’s Office. The tour targeted government employees, individuals, and students with the aim of activating the digital economy, regulating e-commerce, enhancing digital infrastructure, and promoting digital transformation.
The program began with a presentation introducing the National Digital Economy Program, which aims for the digital economy to contribute 10% to the gross domestic product (GDP) by 2040. The program includes numerous initiatives, such as government digital transformation, financial technologies, and the development of the cybersecurity and artificial intelligence industries.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion emphasized the importance of regulating commercial transactions through online marketplaces and e-stores, ensuring a safe and trustworthy environment for both consumers and businesses. The ministry also highlighted the government’s key efforts in implementing the National E-Commerce Plan’s initiatives, which cover various aspects of developing this sector. This is paving the way to realize the vision of transforming the Sultanate of Oman into a regional hub for e-commerce by 2027.
The Central Bank of Oman presented a paper on its Fintech Executive Program, which aims to enhance financial inclusion and encourage innovation in the financial sector through advanced electronic payment solutions. The program has achieved notable success in increasing the number of cashless transactions, and has launched innovative platforms such as “Know Your Customer,” a unified electronic platform designed to verify and register customers electronically, promoting digital transformation. The Central Bank also provides a supportive environment for innovation through the Regulatory Sandbox initiative.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority discussed its Digital Infrastructure Program, which aims to improve broadband network coverage and develop fiber optic and 5G networks, enabling individuals, institutions, and businesses to embrace digital transformation and the digital economy. The Authority is working to expand 5G networks across various governorates and increase the number of undersea cables and data centers, strengthening Oman’s competitive position in the global digital transformation process.
The final presentation addressed the Government Digital Transformation Program, through which the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology seeks to enhance the efficiency of the government sector in delivering integrated digital services by utilizing modern technologies and best practices. The presentation also covered the “Governates’ Digital Transformation Ambassadors” initiative, which aims to raise community awareness about the importance of modern technologies and their role in improving the quality of life and promoting the shift toward digital living.
The program concluded with an open dialogue session, where attendees were able to freely present their suggestions and discuss their ideas. Their questions were also addressed, fostering interaction among participants and creating an opportunity for exchanging views on the topics discussed.