Duqm Economic Forum to spotlight innovation and investment

MUSCAT: The Duqm Economic Forum 2025, themed “Duqm Leading Change”, will open on October 27 at the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD). The two-day event, held under the auspices of Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance, will gather global experts, investors and policymakers to discuss investment opportunities and the future of sustainable development.
Eng Ahmed bin Hassan al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones and Chairman of the Forum’s Supervisory Committee, said the event serves as a platform to attract major multinational projects, particularly in tourism, urban development and smart industries. It will also explore how artificial intelligence can enhance key investment sectors such as sustainable manufacturing and green finance.
This year’s forum will feature over 400 participants, including 54 speakers and moderators — 23 international experts and 19 Omani professionals representing more than 50 nationalities. The discussions will revolve around three main themes: “Integrated Tourism and Lifestyle Development”, “Green Manufacturing and Renewable Industries” and “Smart Cities Powered by Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation”.
The first day will include four key sessions. “Unlimited Opportunities” will highlight Oman’s economic progress and competitiveness under Oman Vision 2040. “The Duqm Experience” will showcase SEZD’s strengths in luxury and adventure tourism. “Building a Renewable Tourism Model” will focus on balancing natural conservation with economic value creation. “The Green Plan” will address the integration of AI, renewable energy and green hydrogen in shaping the next industrial revolution.
On the second day, discussions will explore industrial resilience, smart infrastructure and community empowerment through tourism and innovation. The forum aims to reaffirm Al Duqm’s position as a hub for global investment and a model for sustainable, technology-driven growth in the Sultanate of Oman. — ONA