MUSCAT: The Research and Innovation Authority (RIA) on Monday officially inaugurated the Midad Digital Centre at Innovation Park Muscat, marking a new step towards strengthening Oman’s innovation and digital ecosystem and developing national capabilities in emerging technologies.
The inauguration, held under the auspices of Dr Saif bin Abdullah al Hadabi, Chairman of the Research and Innovation Authority, also witnessed the launch of the centre’s visual identity in the presence of officials and representatives from government institutions, the private sector, academia and the technology sector.
The centre is designed to serve as a national platform for knowledge transfer, capacity building and innovation in advanced communications and emerging digital technologies, including 5G networks, the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence.
In her opening remarks, Najah bint Mohammed al Rashidi, Acting Director-General of the Innovation Centre, said the Midad Digital Centre represents a promising initiative in advanced communications and IoT and an important step towards strengthening Oman’s digital infrastructure.
She said the centre reflects Oman’s commitment to building a sustainable knowledge-based economy in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
Al Rashidi highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships between national institutions and leading global technology companies, with Omani youth at the centre of these efforts.
She said the centre’s programmes go beyond conventional training by providing practical pathways to transform research and innovative ideas into products and services that can contribute to economic diversification and create high-value employment opportunities.
Petra Schirren, President of Ericsson Gulf, delivered the keynote address, highlighting Ericsson’s partnership with Oman, which spans more than five decades.
She said the launch of the Midad Digital Centre represents an important milestone in the development of Oman’s digital ecosystem and reaffirmed Ericsson’s commitment to developing local talent and equipping young Omanis with future-ready skills.
The ceremony also featured a presentation on the development of the Midad Centre and the activities of the Ibn Firnas Academy for Drones.
Dr Salem bin Mohammed al Waili, Director-General of Training at the company operating the Midad Digital Centre, said the centre is a specialised national training institution focused on knowledge transfer, capacity building and anticipating future trends in advanced communications and digital technologies.
He said the centre aims to become a leading national platform for developing capabilities and fostering innovation in advanced communications and emerging technologies.
Its programmes seek to equip individuals and institutions with technical knowledge and skills while strengthening cooperation among the government, academic and industrial sectors, contributing to the development of a sustainable digital economy and society.
The event also included the unveiling of the centre’s visual identity and recognition of outstanding students who participated in its programmes.
Students showcased robotics projects and digital applications developed as part of the Digital Lab programme, demonstrating skills in creative programming, electronics and game development.
The initiative provides students with opportunities to apply their technical knowledge through practical projects while encouraging innovation and problem-solving.
The Midad Digital Centre is supported by a strategic partnership involving government institutions, national companies and international technology expertise.
The RIA provides institutional oversight and directs the centre’s programmes in line with national priorities. The Ministry of Finance contributed to the establishment and facilitation of the project through the Partnership for Development (Offset) programme.
As the centre’s technology and knowledge partner, Ericsson has equipped the facility with advanced communications platforms and technologies and provided technical expertise.
Omantel supports the centre’s technical environment and facilitates the integration of its programmes with the national telecommunications ecosystem.
The Ibn Firnas Academy plays a key role in operating the centre and implementing its applied programmes, including the Digital Lab, further strengthening the practical and skills-development components of the initiative.
The launch of the Midad Digital Centre reflects a broader effort to bring together government institutions, industry, academia and global technology partners to develop national capabilities and support Oman’s transition towards a knowledge- and innovation-driven digital economy.
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