Thursday, February 06, 2025 | Sha'ban 6, 1446 H
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OMAN
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EDITOR IN CHIEF- ABDULLAH BIN SALIM AL SHUEILI

Oman... through the looking glass

‘Signposts’ point towards the future being very much Oman-centric focus, with the necessary elements
Ray Petersen
Ray Petersen
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The Sultanate of Oman has come so far in such a short time, with the government of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik responding enthusiastically to social needs, recognising the necessity for economic diversity, and encouraging resilience, with one eye on the future. Given the extent of social and civil change under the previous administration, it is little short of sensational that the pace of change remains relentless. The government is clearly developing its own very distinctive road map for the future, securing economic security for Oman. Signposts point towards the future being an Oman-centric focus, with the essential elements being the maximisation of national resources, the development of leadership and management among Omani nationals, employment opportunities for graduates—particularly women—and other factors that will affect this journey. These are critical to growing the nation’s prospects. In terms of national resources, although the global trend is leaning towards electric vehicles (EVs), the reality is that even developed economies in Europe and the Americas have struggled to create the necessary service infrastructures to ensure viable options to replace oil- and gas-powered propulsion. Governments in the developed world are hesitant to invest heavily in infrastructure as the rapid pace of technological advancements in EVs causes unease. This development is good news for Oman, as it means its resources will sustain its national objectives for at least the next 30 years and likely far beyond. Petrol engines, which have become quieter and more environmentally acceptable due to enhanced technologies, remain viable. Additionally, many regions in South East Asia, Central Asia, and Africa are still far from adopting EVs. Tourism, which has been struggling since Covid, is recovering worldwide. If the relevant authorities in Oman can focus on what tourists desire rather than solely on what Oman wishes to offer, the opportunities are immense. Tourism in Oman is currently limited to high-end, cultural, and activity-based experiences. However, Oman’s 320 sunny days a year make it a prime destination for the untapped middle-market segment. Creating several enclaves around Oman featuring pristine beaches and clear seas for ‘all-inclusive’ family and adult holidays could be lucrative. These models have proven successful globally, and Oman could benefit significantly by implementing similar strategies. Leadership and management in government appear vibrant and progressive. However, this progress must extend to commerce and industry, with reduced reliance on expatriate management achieved on an accelerated timeline. Encouraging more Omanis to work in overseas environments could foster resilience and a stronger edge in leadership and management. The greatest challenge, both locally and globally, is finding opportunities for graduates. However, graduates themselves must embrace a stronger work ethic, as too few are currently willing to put in the necessary effort. Similarly, the government must create opportunities for women. The cultural divide is too wide to expect individual employers to lead this change, but the government can and should take the lead.


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