Post by : Shweta
Omantel Hosts Regional Conference in Muscat to Expand Technology Partnerships
Oman is seeking to attract investment in digital infrastructure and modern technologies through regional and international partnerships. Omantel hosted the SAMENA Leaders AXIS 2026 conference in Muscat on Tuesday under the theme “Oman: The New Geography of Digital Investment.”
The conference was held under the patronage of Engineer Omar bin Hamdan Al Ismaili, CEO of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority. It brought together stakeholders from telecommunications, digital infrastructure, data centres, cloud computing, energy, satellite technologies and investment to explore business opportunities in Oman and the wider region.
Conference Focuses on Digital Infrastructure and Investment
Discussions centred on attracting investment in digital infrastructure, developing technical capabilities, expanding commercial partnerships and encouraging international companies to establish or grow their operations in Oman. The event also examined opportunities for Omani companies to enter new markets and participate in the expanding digital economy.
Oman Vision 2040 Supports Digital Economy Development
Oman's strategic geographic location, international connectivity networks, expanding digital infrastructure and energy resources were highlighted as advantages for attracting investment. These factors support the country's ambition to become a gateway to Gulf markets and strengthen its position in the Middle East and North Africa region.
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The development of the digital economy also aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify the national economy and improve its competitiveness.
Omantel Highlights Artificial Intelligence Opportunities
Omantel CEO Alaa Al-Din Beit Fadhil highlighted the impact of generative artificial intelligence on digital infrastructure, business applications and emerging technology companies. He said Oman could benefit from these developments through its telecommunications networks, digital infrastructure, skilled workforce and geographic position.
He added that Omantel aims to turn these advantages into commercial opportunities for companies, investors and international technology providers, supporting growth across the national economy.
International Cable Networks Strengthen Connectivity
According to Omantel, the company has invested in more than 20 international submarine cable systems. Through Zain Omantel International, it also benefits from an extensive terrestrial network serving regional and international telecommunications markets.
The company said its international connectivity infrastructure includes approximately 120,000 kilometres of submarine cable networks and direct connections to more than 120 cities worldwide. Its operations extend across eight markets, supporting demand from telecommunications operators, technology companies, content providers and cloud service businesses.
Innovation Labs Support Omani Technology Startups
Omantel is also investing in the development of emerging technology businesses. Since 2021, its Innovation Labs have supported more than 80 technology companies working in areas such as generative artificial intelligence, enterprise solutions, cybersecurity and data analytics.
The initiative helps startups access technical expertise, establish relationships with investors and industry organisations, and explore opportunities to expand into regional markets.
Energy and Data Centres Feature in Investment Discussions
The conference examined the relationship between energy infrastructure and the growing demand for computing capacity, data centres, cloud services and telecommunications networks. Participants discussed the importance of reliable, available and sustainable energy in decisions concerning digital infrastructure investment.
The space and satellite sector also featured in discussions, with attention to ground infrastructure, data services, commercial applications and opportunities for cooperation between Omani institutions and international organisations.
SAMENA Conference Encourages Regional Cooperation
Bocar Ba, CEO of the SAMENA Telecommunications Council, highlighted the importance of cooperation between investors, technology companies, infrastructure providers and local businesses in developing Oman's digital economy.
The conference provided a platform for participants to identify potential customers, establish business relationships and explore long-term investment opportunities. Through the event, Omantel and the SAMENA Telecommunications Council sought to strengthen partnerships and support the growth of digital infrastructure and technology-related economic activities in Oman and the wider region.
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