AI Zone and Digital Triangle Project Set to Transform Oman’s Tech Landscape at COMEX 2025

AI Zone and Digital Triangle Project Launched at COMEX 2025

Muscat hosted the opening of the 34th COMEX Global Technology Exhibition, "COMEX 2025," under the patronage of HH Sayyid Shihab bin Tarik Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for Defence Affairs. The event, organized by the Arab Data Analytics Company with support from the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, runs for four days at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center.

The opening ceremony introduced key strategic initiatives to boost digital investments locally and internationally. These include:

• The Digital Triangle Project;
• The designation of a Dedicated Artificial Intelligence Zone;
• The launch of the Green AI Alliance, uniting government, private sector, and academic institutions.

Agreements totaling RO 42 million were signed during the event. Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) secured five deals focused on Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies and digital transformation with regional and international partners.

New Digital Tools and Platforms

The ceremony also marked the launch of the "Tajawob" electronic application, which connects community members directly with more than 55 government institutions. This platform simplifies the submission of requests while ensuring security and transparency.

Exhibition Highlights

COMEX 2025 features over 140 tech startups and more than 200 government, private entities, and international delegations. The event showcases the latest technologies and electronic services, reflecting strong confidence in the digital sector.

The exhibition serves as a platform to:

• Provide investment and advisory opportunities in data governance;
• Develop data management and governance policies;
• Offer solutions for metadata organization;
• Build national capacities and train competencies;
• Analyze data using the latest AI methods.

Strategic Direction and Government Support

Eng. Said Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to supporting Oman Vision 2040’s digital economy goals. He highlighted the launch of "Mu’een," Oman’s first national AI language model, initially deployed within government sectors before expanding to the broader digital ecosystem.

Dr. Ali Amer Al Shethani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology, outlined several initiatives underway at COMEX 2025, including:

• Introduction of 30 new services on the Unified Digital Services Portal, mobile app, and smart assistant;
• Launch of the National Open Data Portal to increase transparency by providing accessible government data;
• Expansion of “Thiqa” digital authentication services for secure government transactions.

Green AI Alliance and Dedicated AI Zone

The Green AI Alliance was announced as the region’s first initiative combining AI development with environmental sustainability. It focuses on green data centers, efficient AI models, advanced processors, and clean energy solutions. The alliance brings together governments, technology firms, energy companies, and investors to promote sustainable AI deployment.

Additionally, the Dedicated AI Zone in A’Seeb, Muscat Governorate, was unveiled. This specialized zone aims to attract AI-focused institutions and startups from Oman, the Middle East, and Africa. The initiative supports local and regional AI startups by providing a business-friendly environment and advanced infrastructure to foster digital innovation.

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones will supervise the project’s implementation, with regulatory oversight and legislative support. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology will manage the technical aspects, including selecting companies through a public tender to operate the zone.

Digital Triangle Project and AI Studio

The Digital Triangle Project is a national initiative to develop three interlinked digital zones in Barka, Duqm, and Sur. These zones serve as hubs for cloud computing, AI, and advanced digital services, supported by green data centers, high-speed connectivity through submarine cables and optical fibers, and an innovation-friendly regulatory framework.

COMEX 2025 also introduced the AI Studio as a collaborative environment where AI experts and organizations can connect to find practical AI solutions for operational challenges.

Industry and Sector Participation

Prof. Abdullah Baabood, CEO of the Arab Data Analytics Company, noted the significant role of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in the event’s growth and success, fostering public-private collaboration.

Eng. Alaa Abdullah Bait Fadel, Chief Commercial Officer of Omantel, highlighted the company’s focus on showcasing technologies in cybersecurity and healthcare services during the exhibition.

Exhibition Features and Events

COMEX 2025 offers dedicated sections including:

• E-Government Pavilion;
• Business Pavilion;
• Tech Startups Pavilion;
• Banking, FinTech, and Insurance Pavilion;
• E-Sports and Gaming Section;
• International Delegations Pavilion.

Accompanying events include the COMEX Awards, COMEX Summit, workshops, specialized sessions, interactive experiences, e-gaming competitions, and the COMEX Hackathon. Visitors can explore a wide range of the latest technology products and digital services.

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