Oman is entering a defining chapter in its history. The ambitions of Oman Vision 2040 call not only for economic growth, but also for growth that is sustainable, inclusive and rooted in our national identity.
At this moment, I believe local engineering firms stand as one of the most critical forces in shaping our country’s future. Engineering and construction are often viewed narrowly as technical activities — designing, building and delivering. However, in truth, they are far more.
They are instruments of nation building. The choices we make in how we build our cities, industries and infrastructure will determine whether we create a future that is resilient and distinctly Omani, or one that relies excessively on external systems.
THE POWER OF LOCAL ROOTS
Local firms bring something to the table that international players cannot: a deep sense of ownership. We are not simply contractors completing a project; we are stakeholders in Oman’s destiny. Our knowledge of the terrain, our respect for heritage and our commitment to long-term value creation give us an intrinsic advantage. When we succeed, it is not just a balance sheet that grows it is the nation itself.
SUSTAINABILITY AS A NATIONAL ETHIC
For Oman, sustainability is not optional; it is imperative. Local firms must lead the charge in embedding green practices, developing energy-conscious designs and sourcing responsibly. However, sustainability is also about people about building institutions that will last and preparing the next generation to take the mantle. It is about ensuring that every project we complete leaves behind not just a structure, but also a legacy.
INVESTING IN OMANI TALENT
A cornerstone of this vision is the Talent Elevation Programme (TEP), a structured national initiative designed to build the next generation of trusted, professional Omani leaders in critical positions. The TEP was launched to address key national priorities such as effective Omanisation, productivity improvement and long-term sustainability of the workforce. Its mission is to acquire and develop capable Omani talent, transfer knowledge from experienced professionals, provide targeted coaching and ensure smooth succession planning within organisations.
Through structured stages including English and IT skill development, job-specific skills training and performance evaluation TEP aims to elevate local talent to take on significant roles with confidence and competence.
By empowering Omani engineers and professionals through such programmes, firms are not only addressing immediate operational needs but also ensuring that the leadership of tomorrow is authentically local. This aligns directly with Oman Vision 2040 call for sustainable human capital development and reduced dependency on external expertise.
BEYOND COMPETITION: TOWARDS COLLABORATION
The world is changing quickly. Technologies like digital modelling, AI-driven design and sustainable construction materials are redefining what is possible. To keep pace, Omani firms must not only compete but collaborate with each other, with academia and with global partners. This spirit of partnership will ensure that our projects are excellent in quality yet authentically Omani in character. The question before us is not whether local firms can rise to a challenge they already are.
The question is whether we, as a nation, will be bold enough to trust them, invest in them and empower them to lead. Transparent procurement policies, long-term contracts and recognition of local expertise will make the difference between incremental progress and transformative change. I envision an Oman where the highways, hospitals, universities and industries of tomorrow are not only symbols of modernity, but also monuments to Omani ingenuity.
A nation where our children walk into buildings that stand as testaments to our resilience and vision. Engineering firms may work with steel and concrete, but at their core, they are shaping something far greater: the future of Oman itself. It is time we recognise them not as service providers, but as architects of the nation’s tomorrow.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
