MUSCAT: The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday celebrated the winners of the 2025-2026 Adobe National Graphic Design Championship, marking a major milestone for young Omani creatives entering the global digital design arena.
Out of 814 participants from universities, colleges and schools across Oman, nine finalists advanced to the concluding stage of the competition. Shaikha bint Mohammed al Yafai from Sultan Qaboos University claimed first place, followed by Firas bin Ahmed al Nuaimi from the Scientific College of Design in second place and Shaham bin Rashid al Shabibi, also from the Scientific College of Design, in third.
The three winners will represent Oman at the Adobe Certified Professional World Championship in the United States at the end of July, competing against participants from more than 80 countries.
In her speech, Dr Siham bint Ahmed al Harthy, CEO of Siham Investment & Development, OCCI Board Member and Head of Tourism Committee and Executive President of the competition, described the championship as a national platform dedicated to discovering and refining young talent in digital creativity and design. She said the achievements of the participating students reflected the immense capabilities of Omani youth and their ability to compete regionally and globally.
She added that the competition forms part of wider efforts to strengthen innovation and digital creativity while building a generation equipped with technical and artistic skills aligned with the future job market.
Zawan bint Khalfan al Akhzami, CEO of Vision and Achievements International, said the Adobe competition is considered the world’s largest arena for digital design creatives, bringing together top designers from more than 80 countries. She noted that Oman is participating in the global championship for the first time through a promising group of young talents.
Al Akhzami explained that participants underwent months of learning, challenges and development since the final quarter of 2025, eventually reaching the advanced stages of the championship. She highlighted that the nine finalists earned internationally accredited professional certifications at an early age.
She also thanked supporting institutions from both the public and private sectors, stressing that investing in youth creativity represents “a real investment in national talents capable of shaping the future labour market.”
Meanwhile, Aisha al Saifi, Chief Transformation Officer at Sohar International, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Omani youth and creative talent. She said that Sohar International believes its role extends beyond banking to empowering young Omanis capable of excelling on regional and international stages.
The ceremony featured visual presentations showcasing the journey of the competition and some of the standout creative works produced during the various stages of the contest. The event concluded with honours for supporting organisations, judging panels, organisers and finalists.
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