MUSCAT: ‘Raf’, a student-led start-up under the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Muscat, has developed an innovative Omani digital platform that empowers users to create AI-powered e-stores tailored for the local market.
The platform eliminates technical barriers for youth and e-commerce enthusiasts through its intuitive interface.
Saif al Hashar, CEO of Raf, said that Raf allows automated store setup, price adjustments, competitor tracking and smart data analytics — aligning with Oman’s digital transformation vision by supporting SMEs with AI solutions.
With a 12-member interdisciplinary team, Raf offers flexible subscription plans catering to diverse entrepreneurs. “Our mission is to democratise e-commerce entry and equip Omani youth with smart business tools,” Al Hashar stated.
Selected among Oman’s top 40 start-ups from over 300 applicants in the “Injaz Oman 2025” programme, Raf completed its prototype in early 2025 after development began in January 2024. The company plans to launch the full platform by early 2026 while seeking seed funding and strategic partnerships.
Notably, Raf aims to become a regional e-commerce leader by introducing advanced AI features including sales analytics, product recommendations and a virtual business assistant to optimise user operations.
— ONA
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