Oman MTCIT Ministry: "Why We are Perfect Testbed for Tech Innovation And a Gateway To Middle East"

Oman has established a clear intent to diversify its economy and a willingness to invest in high-tech industries as part of its long-term Vision 2040. The digital economy and semiconductors are a key part of that vision. In June 2025, EE Times published an article which stated, "Rather than leap into advanced manufacturing without a clear roadmap, Oman appears to be taking a pragmatic approach, starting with realistic goals and building from the ground up. By attracting semiconductor companies and gradually developing local capabilities, the country aims to reduce its reliance on oil revenues and stimulate growth in its digital economy."

In order to explore the country's ambitions, EE Times' Nitin Dahad caught up with H.E. Ali Amur Ali Al Shidhani, Undersecretary of Communications and Information Technology at the Oman Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), to learn more about Vision 2040 in December 2025. We chatted at ISES Middle East 2025, a semiconductor industry conference, in Muscat, on 11 December 2025 to learn about the vision and much more.

EE Times had a wide ranging conversation which you can watch in this video, where we talk about the Vision 2040, some of the examples of activity in semiconductors already in the country - such as medical wearables developer Onsor - as well as AI projects like the Green AI alliance, as well as its initiatives in space technology, including the space rocket already launched. The Undersecretary also talks about the objectives and timeline for setting up a semiconductor center of excellence. He said, Oman is a "testbed for new technology," indicating that it's a huge green field for any innovator or company looking to experiment with their new technologies.

He emphasizes the role of Oman as the Switzeland of the Middle East as far as technology innovation as well as trade in the current geopolitical climate is concerned.

Watch the video for the full conversation.
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