Interview: Talal Al Mamari
What are the most significant challenges and opportunities for the ICT sector?
TALAL AL MAMARI: The ICT sector faces several challenges, including the need to bridge the digital divide by ensuring equitable access to ICT infrastructure and services. To address the disparity in access between urban and rural areas, the government has initiated projects like the National Broadband Strategy to extend high-speed internet coverage. This initiative includes laying fibre-optic cables and expanding wireless connectivity. Another imperative is building a digitally skilled work-force to address the current shortage of ICT professionals and equip Omanis for the digital economy.
The shortage of ICT professionals is being tackled through education reforms and partnerships with international technology companies. For example, the recent collaboration between Oman’s Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, and leading technology firms has led to specialised training programmes in data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. In response to increased cyberthreats, in April 2010 the government established the Oman National Computer Emergency Readiness Team to enhance cybersecurity infrastructure, and provide support to prevent and manage cyberattacks.
The sector is seeing investment in research and development, with a focus on advanced technologies and collaboration with start-ups, academia and industry partners. There are opportunities to capitalise on the momentum of the digital transformation to enhance efficiency, productivity and innovation across all sec-tors. The efforts being made in health care, education and banking offer substantial efficiency gains, while emerging technologies like 5G and the internet of things (IoT) will be crucial in developing smart city solutions and enhancing automation. To benefit from these opportunities, it is important for policymakers to support the development of a vibrant ICT ecosystem that nurtures start-ups and boosts economic growth.
How is the ICT sector adapting to the evolving digital landscape, particularly in terms of 5G and IoT?
AL MAMARI: Oman’s public and private sector entities are making strides in adapting to the new digital landscape, particularly in 5G and IoT. Partnerships with hyperscalers such as AWS, Huawei and Google provide ICT solutions and technologies. The rollout of 5G is key, providing ultra-fast connectivity for various industries. In health care it is expected to enable telemedicine and remote monitoring, while enhancing operational efficiency in oil and gas, and supporting smart factories. IoT technology is revolutionising various sectors, driving efficiency in agriculture through precision farming, and providing the foundations for intelligent traffic systems and energy-efficient buildings in smart cities.
To support these advancements, Oman is focusing on skill development and training, integrating IoT and 5G modules into curricula and fostering public-private partnerships for tailored training programmes. Additionally, the government is creating a supportive regulatory environment for the adoption of 5G and IoT, coupled with incentives for further innovation and stringent cybersecurity measures.
In what ways can ICT companies support the creation of smart cities and sustainable technologies?
AL MAMARI: ICT businesses contribute significantly to the development of smart cities and sustainable technologies. Collaboration with government agencies focuses on improving resource management, optimising e-services and enhancing urban living. In addition, the sector is exploring renewable energy solutions for sustainability. The impact of emerging technologies like AI and blockchain is profound, with AI integration boosting customer experiences and network performance, and blockchain applications improving supply chain transparency, data security and secure transactions. This marks a significant shift in the landscape for the continued development of Oman’s ICT infrastructure.
Read More from OBG
