Oman’s AI companies nearly double in one year

The number of Omani companies operating in the artificial intelligence sector rose to 42 by the end of August 2026, up from 22 a year earlier, marking a 91% increase as the sultanate expands the application of AI across economic and development sectors. The surge reflects a maturing local technology ecosystem and growing private-sector confidence in AI-driven solutions.

"These companies are developing innovative technological solutions and products that improve business efficiency, enhance services, automate processes and enable better use of data in decision-making," said Tawah bint Abdullah Al Dawood, Head of the Development and Studies Section at the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT).

Tawah told the Oman News Agency that the jump from 22 to 42 AI companies demonstrates how startups are moving beyond ideas and prototypes to commercially viable solutions deployable across both government and private-sector fields. She said this transition is helping to "transform the technology from an emerging concept into practical applications, supporting the development of an innovation- and knowledge-based digital economy in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040."

Officials highlighted several concrete ways local AI firms are contributing to Oman’s digital transformation:

• Localisation of expertise: Companies are "developing local solutions and building national capabilities in AI, data and software development," improving access to technical knowledge for Omani professionals.
• Workforce development: Startups are creating opportunities for nationals to gain practical experience in advanced technology fields.
• Private-sector confidence and investment: The growing number of successful AI companies is "strengthening private-sector confidence in the economic opportunities offered by the technology, encouraging greater adoption and investment."
• Export potential: AI-based digital solutions can scale beyond domestic markets, creating avenues for regional and international expansion.

Tawah also pointed to international exposure as a growth enabler, noting that participation in "international and regional technology events, programmes and competitions, alongside partnerships with companies and investors, would help showcase Omani capabilities and create new opportunities for expansion." She said MTCIT is working to improve data and indicators for the AI sector to allow "more comprehensive and accurate measurement of investment and growth in the future."

Industry observers say the near-doubling of AI firms within a year suggests both increased entrepreneurial activity and a policy environment that is encouraging digital innovation. By focusing on commercial viability and skills localisation, Oman aims to ensure that AI contributes not only to productivity gains but also to job creation and capability building aligned with long-term economic goals.

Looking ahead, the MTCIT intends to bolster measurement tools for the sector and support fora that connect startups with investors and partners. As Tawah emphasized, the combination of local solution development and outward-looking engagement could help Omani AI companies "enter regional and international markets," turning domestic momentum into sustained growth and broader market reach.