During the conclusion of the 25th session of the Arab minister’s council, the Ministers for Communications and Information has revealed that Muscat will be the “Arab Digital Capital” for 2022.
Oman’s key position in the global trade, its ability to become an international center for data exchange, strong digital capabilities and infrastructure, a technically capable young society, and submarine cables that allow high-speed digital exchange have all contributed to Muscat being titled as the Arab Digital Capital for next year.
Eng. Said Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, said that the decision echoes the confidence of Arab countries in the digital and legal capabilities of Oman.
The Minister also added that Oman aims to create a hallmark of digitalization in the Arab world. The country’s candidacy file was presented under the logo “Digital Future That Generates Opportunities”, which aligns with Oman Vision 2040. The file emphasized three main axes, which includes cyber-security, digital innovation and digital capabilities development.
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of Oman aims to develop digital talent and skills in the Arab world, enrich Arab digital content, enhance cooperation in cybersecurity, and encourage investment in the digital economy.
“The Governorate of Muscat is leading the country’s digital transformation process and adopts advanced technologies that enhance economic and social growth, empower all other sectors, and attract local, regional and international investments, in addition to enabling digital integration among Arab countries,” said Mr. Al Maawali.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sayyid Saud Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat said that the victory is an incentive to exercise more efforts towards a digital transformation that responds to the goals of Oman Vision 2040, notably creating smart technical systems that motivate innovation, developing skills and consolidating institutional partnerships.
The selection of Muscat as Arab Digital Capital is testimony to model digital capabilities and resources to attract promising investments in the field of technology and communications, Mr. Al Busaidi remarked.
The Arab digital capital is selected on an annual basis to host successful initiatives and models. The city organizes a cluster of events that highlight its excellence in upgrading the economic, social, health and educational environment, besides augmenting the welfare of society and exhibiting its capabilities to become a global leader in the fourth industrial revolution.
Oman’s delegation at the 25th meeting of the Arab Minister of Communications and Information Technology was headed by Dr. Ali Amer Al Shidhani, Communications and Information Technology Undersecretary at the Ministry of Transport, Transport, Communications and Information Technology.
