In a significant move to bolster their digital economies and foster regional collaboration, the Sultanate of Oman and the Arab Republic of Egypt have officially launched a new Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technologies Zone in Muscat. Announced on the sidelines of the COMEX International Exhibition, the project is a strategic partnership between Omani firm Afouq Developments and Egypt’s Prime Group, with the full backing of Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.
The new technology zone is envisioned as a central hub for innovation and investment, aimed at attracting both local and international tech startups. Officials from both countries highlighted the initiative’s purpose: to create a fertile environment for companies focused on cutting-edge fields like AI, robotics, fintech, and data analytics. The goal is to not only drive economic growth but also to position the two nations as leaders in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Siham Al-Harthi, Chairperson of Afouq Developments, emphasized that the zone is designed to integrate the most advanced global technologies while drawing inspiration from Omani heritage. “This zone is designed to meet the needs of tech start-ups and place Oman among leading nations in adopting and hosting cutting-edge companies,” she stated. Similarly, Prime Group CEO Mahmoud Farrag underscored the partnership’s access to a vast network of international corporations, research centers, and business accelerators, which will help transform the zone into a global platform for future investments.
The initiative aligns with both nations’ national visions for a diversified, knowledge-based economy. For Oman, it supports the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which identifies technology and digital innovation as crucial pillars for national development. For Egypt, it builds upon the country’s robust national AI strategy and its growing reputation as a regional tech hub, further strengthened by its upcoming hosting of the inaugural Middle East and Africa AI World Exhibition and Summit in 2026.
This collaborative project is set to enhance technological expertise, create high-value employment opportunities for youth, and stimulate a vibrant ecosystem of research and development. It represents a forward-thinking model of partnership aimed at steering the region towards a future powered by digital innovation and strategic technological leadership.
