Oman’s cybersecurity in GenAI age

As Oman transitions into a digital economy, cybersecurity has emerged as a key area of focus, bolstered by the transformative potential of Generative AI (GenAI). While GenAI offers immense opportunities to enhance cybersecurity defenses, it also introduces a “dark side” that demands careful oversight. By exploring both its benefits and risks, alongside Oman’s unique approach to AI-driven security, we can better understand its societal implications and pave the way for responsible AI integration.

The promise and peril

GenAI holds promise for enhancing cybersecurity across sectors. In Oman, AI technologies are being integrated into national infrastructure under Oman Vision 2040, which envisions a diversified, tech-driven economy. GenAI systems can automate threat detection, predict vulnerabilities, and improve response times, providing unparalleled defense against cyberattacks. AI-based technology has already shown potential in safeguarding critical industries such as healthcare, finance, and logistics.

However, GenAI is a double-edged sword. While it strengthens defenses, it can also empower cybercriminals. The ability of AI to craft realistic phishing emails, launch autonomous malware, and even generate deep fakes represents significant risks. Such AI-generated deep fakes can impersonate public figures, undermining trust in digital communications—a particularly sensitive issue in Omani society, where community trust and reputation are foundational.

Steps against AI threats

Oman is taking proactive steps to harness AI responsibly. Oman’s National Program for AI and Advanced Technologies emphasises the need for stringent governance and ethical use of AI technologies. This includes Oman’s Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy that emphasises the adoption of ethical principles in AI development and use, including data privacy, trust building, and assures that AI solutions are aligned with Omani societal values. One of the key artifact of such initiatives is the development of an Omani AI language model, which integrates cultural and ethical norms into AI algorithms, ensuring that local identity and values are preserved even as digital transformation accelerates. There is an ongoing research in the Information Systems Department at Sultan Qaboos University to assess and develop an effective model for automating GenAI-based Cybersecurity Incident Responses. The objective of this research is to ensure a more streamlined, adaptive, and cost-effective approach to handling cybersecurity incidents.

Furthermore, Oman has placed a strong focus on cybersecurity initiatives under Vision 2040, with targeted investments to bolster local capabilities and integrate AI across sectors. Several Programs and initiatives like and have been planned and launched to train young Omanis and professionals to tackle these evolving threats, ensuring that the next generation is equipped to defend against sophisticated AI-driven attacks. By embedding AI into the nation’s defense infrastructure and regulating its use, Oman is positioning itself as a leader in both AI innovation and cybersecurity resilience.

The dark side

Despite these efforts, the risks posed by AI remain a critical concern. GeneAI’s ability to create deepfakes and misleading content threatens the integrity of digital communications, potentially leading to significant societal repercussions. For Oman, where societal cohesion and trust are paramount, the erosion of trust in digital platforms through misinformation campaigns or AI-generated scams is particularly alarming. Additionally, an AI’s capability to automate cyberattacks, such as crafting targeted phishing emails or deploying advanced malware, significantly amplifies the scale and complexity of threats.

Implications for society and recommendations

As Oman continues to embrace AI, it is crucial to establish guidelines that foster a balanced integration of this technology. AI governance must be continuously updated to address new risks, and Oman’s regulatory bodies must work closely with public and private sectors to ensure comprehensive oversight.

Specific recommendations for a balanced AI-driven society include: 1. AI literacy: By fostering widespread AI literacy across society, Oman can empower citizens to understand both the benefits and risks of AI technologies. Educational syllabi should focus not only on technical skills but also on ethical considerations, ensuring that the next generation of leaders and workers are prepared for a future where AI plays a central role.

2. Ethical AI: AI models should be developed with a focus on ethical use. In Oman, this could mean continuing to train AI models that reflect Omani culture and societal values, ensuring that they align with local expectations of privacy and trust.

3. Public-Private collaboration: Oman’s approach to integrating AI involves close collaboration between the government, academic institutions, and private companies. This collaborative framework should be strengthened to ensure that AI innovation is balanced with robust cybersecurity measures.-

4. Cultural sensitivity in AI: AI models trained with Omani cultural nuances are a step in the right direction. By continuing to develop AI solutions that respect and integrate local traditions, Oman can ensure that the benefits of digital transformation do not come at the cost of cultural erosion.

A balanced AI-based society

Generative AI holds enormous potential for transforming cybersecurity and driving economic growth in Oman. However, its dark side presents significant challenges. Oman’s response, grounded in ethical AI governance and cultural preservation, provides a blueprint for how to harness AI responsibly. As Oman forges ahead, a balanced approach that prioritises education, collaboration, and ethical AI development will be key to ensuring that society reaps the benefits of without succumbing to its risks. Through regulation and investment in human capital, Oman can lead the way in building a secure, AI-powered future.