Latest news with #MoTCIT
Observer
5 days ago
- Business
- Observer
New personal data protection guidelines mandated for auditors
MUSCAT, JUNE 17 The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT) has unveiled new standards and requirements for the accreditation of external personal data auditors in the Sultanate of Oman. The document, issued in April of 2025, aims to' establish clear standards for the accreditation of external auditors to ensure high-quality, ethical, and lawful data audit services in Oman.' 'In light of the increasing challenges of personal data protection in the digital age, the importance of ensuring private sector institutions' compliance with relevant laws and regulations grows,' the Ministry said in the document. This document provides the necessary technical and administrative standards for accrediting external auditors to ensure they possess the qualifications, methodology, and resources required to deliver high-quality and reliable audit services. This ensures their ability to conduct compliance audits for institutions (controllers and processors) to verify that personal data processing procedures are in accordance with the provisions of the Personal Data Protection Law and its executive regulations,' the Ministry added. In order to qualify as external auditors, companies must adhere to several administrative, security and compliance, and quality assurance requirements. In regards to administrative and technical standards, auditors are required to have an active commercial registration for no less than 12 months and possess the necessary licenses to operate in the Sultanate of Oman. In addition to holding essential certifications including ISO/IEC 27001 for Information Security Management and ISO/IEC 27701 for Privacy Information Management. Furthermore, external auditing companies must have a qualified technical team with practical experience and recognized certifications such as ISO 27000 Lead Auditor or CISA, and CIPP. In addition to previous auditing experience, with a demonstrated and credible track record in providing auditing services. Moreover, companies must maintain comprehensive documentation of procedures covering all audit phases (planning, execution, and reporting) in addition to a record retention policy of audit records, activities, results, and correspondence for no less than five years. Finally, the regulations require a minimum Omanisation rate of 30% within the technical teams of companies. In regards to security and compliance, the standard requires auditors to adhere to all laws and regulations related to personal data protection. Companies must also have comprehensive Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy, which outlines how data is managed and safeguarded against unauthorized access, modification, or disclosure Furthermore, companies must have the ability to conduct risk assessment audits and security gap assessments. They are also required to maintain an incident reporting policy, which clearly outlines the procedures for reporting any security incidents that occur during the audit process. Finally, auditors are required to implement defined standards to regularly assess performance and ensure adherence to the required quality levels .
Zawya
04-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Insights for developing sustainable data centres in Oman
As artificial intelligence becomes central to modern economies, the global surge in high-performance data centres is driving significant increases in electricity consumption and carbon emissions. These digital facilities underpin technological progress but are among the fastest-growing energy consumers globally. With data centres accounting for 2 to 3% of global electricity use, and this figure is expected to climb with the expansion of AI applications, digital twins, and large language models, the need for sustainable infrastructure is more urgent than ever. Oman, with its strategic location in the GCC and abundant renewable energy potential, is well-placed to lead this sustainable digital revolution. Oman Vision 2040 outlines Oman's road map toward a diversified and knowledge-based economy. With vast potential in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, combined with its advancing hydrogen economy, CCUS (carbon capture, utilisation, and storage) initiatives, and LNG infrastructure, Oman can become a leader in sustainable digital transformation. The country can capitalise on its clean energy ecosystem to host AI infrastructure that is not only energy-efficient but also climate-aligned. Recent efforts by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), including the establishment of the National Centre for Space, Advanced Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence, reflect a growing commitment to integrate AI across key sectors. Energy is a priority, and integrating AI with energy systems will be essential to ensure efficient, resilient, and scalable data infrastructure. In particular, AI-optimised energy management systems and predictive cooling models can minimise operational costs and reduce carbon emissions. From a technical standpoint, Oman must invest in sustainable thermal management technologies suitable for its arid climate. Innovations such as liquid immersion cooling, thermal energy storage systems, and advanced hybrid air-liquid systems should be piloted. These technologies not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance system reliability under high ambient temperatures. Coupling these with renewable-powered microgrids and smart grid integration can improve grid stability and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Additionally, research into AI-enabled fault prediction, load balancing, and real-time optimisation of cooling and power systems is crucial for operational efficiency. Strategically, a national R&D lab hosted at Sultan Qaboos University, supported by MoTCIT, industrial zones like Sohar and Duqm, and international technology partners, could serve as a testbed for future-ready data centre solutions. Such a lab would facilitate applied research, prototype demonstration, and the development of localised cooling and hydrogen-based power systems. This initiative would enhance in-country value (ICV), promote workforce development, and support capacity building in AI-energy convergence. Oman must view sustainable data centres as essential to its digital future and climate leadership. Beyond meeting regional digital demand, these centres can become engines for innovation, clean technology commercialisation, and economic diversification. By investing in targeted R&D, smart infrastructure, and public-private collaborations, Oman can position itself as a regional hub for clean energy-powered digital ecosystems aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and global net-zero targets. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
03-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Insights for developing sustainable data centres in Oman
As artificial intelligence becomes central to modern economies, the global surge in high-performance data centres is driving significant increases in electricity consumption and carbon emissions. These digital facilities underpin technological progress but are among the fastest-growing energy consumers globally. With data centres accounting for 2 to 3% of global electricity use, and this figure is expected to climb with the expansion of AI applications, digital twins, and large language models, the need for sustainable infrastructure is more urgent than ever. Oman, with its strategic location in the GCC and abundant renewable energy potential, is well-placed to lead this sustainable digital revolution. Oman Vision 2040 outlines Oman's road map toward a diversified and knowledge-based economy. With vast potential in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind, combined with its advancing hydrogen economy, CCUS (carbon capture, utilisation, and storage) initiatives, and LNG infrastructure, Oman can become a leader in sustainable digital transformation. The country can capitalise on its clean energy ecosystem to host AI infrastructure that is not only energy-efficient but also climate-aligned. Recent efforts by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), including the establishment of the National Centre for Space, Advanced Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence, reflect a growing commitment to integrate AI across key sectors. Energy is a priority, and integrating AI with energy systems will be essential to ensure efficient, resilient, and scalable data infrastructure. In particular, AI-optimised energy management systems and predictive cooling models can minimise operational costs and reduce carbon emissions. From a technical standpoint, Oman must invest in sustainable thermal management technologies suitable for its arid climate. Innovations such as liquid immersion cooling, thermal energy storage systems, and advanced hybrid air-liquid systems should be piloted. These technologies not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance system reliability under high ambient temperatures. Coupling these with renewable-powered microgrids and smart grid integration can improve grid stability and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Additionally, research into AI-enabled fault prediction, load balancing, and real-time optimisation of cooling and power systems is crucial for operational efficiency. Strategically, a national R&D lab hosted at Sultan Qaboos University, supported by MoTCIT, industrial zones like Sohar and Duqm, and international technology partners, could serve as a testbed for future-ready data centre solutions. Such a lab would facilitate applied research, prototype demonstration, and the development of localised cooling and hydrogen-based power systems. This initiative would enhance in-country value (ICV), promote workforce development, and support capacity building in AI-energy convergence. Oman must view sustainable data centres as essential to its digital future and climate leadership. Beyond meeting regional digital demand, these centres can become engines for innovation, clean technology commercialisation, and economic diversification. By investing in targeted R&D, smart infrastructure, and public-private collaborations, Oman can position itself as a regional hub for clean energy-powered digital ecosystems aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and global net-zero targets.
Zawya
03-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman deploys AI to drive Vision 2040 goals
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, has launched a portfolio of artificial intelligence (AI) pilot projects across strategic sectors, as part of the 'AI Economics' initiative under Oman's National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies. According to the MTCIT's 2024 annual report, the initiative seeks to embed AI tools within priority sectors including healthcare, energy, investment, public administration, and tourism. The overarching aim is to accelerate economic diversification, build national digital capabilities, and align with the long-term objectives of Oman Vision 2040. The newly introduced projects are designed to improve decision-making, service delivery, and operational efficiency across both public and private sectors. Each initiative reflects the government's strategic intent to position Oman as a regional leader in the digital economy. One of the flagship initiatives is the National Center for Virtual Health, which leverages AI to provide remote specialised healthcare services. The project aims to expand access to medical care, particularly in remote areas, while reducing the overall burden on physical health infrastructure. In the field of energy and natural resources, the Geological Data Analysis project applies AI to enhance the accuracy of identifying oil, gas, and mineral deposits, as well as locating potential sites for renewable energy development. The government has also launched an Environmental Information Bank, which combines AI and blockchain technologies to create a secure and intelligent system for managing environmental data. This platform is expected to support more informed policymaking in areas such as climate change, conservation, and pollution control. In the media sector, the Ain Media Platform has been introduced to improve the quality and personalisation of media services offered to users. The platform uses AI algorithms to streamline content delivery and tailor experiences based on user preferences. Another key initiative is the Investment Data Dashboard, an interactive tool powered by AI that enables real-time analysis of investment flows and economic indicators. This dashboard is designed to support evidence-based policymaking and attract foreign direct investment by improving data transparency. To support tourism and transport, the Smart Gates in Dhofar project has been rolled out to monitor vehicle movements, congestion levels, and tourist volumes, particularly during high season. The initiative is expected to enhance traffic management and facilitate more efficient planning for tourism services in the southern governorate. Within the realm of public sector reform, the Smart Administration programme focuses on automating administrative procedures to improve efficiency and responsiveness in government services. The project aligns with national efforts to digitise service delivery and reduce bureaucratic delays. The Training Workshop Management system is another AI-enabled platform designed to optimise content organisation and evaluate the effectiveness of capacity-building programmes. It will provide real-time feedback and analytics to improve training outcomes across government institutions. To stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship, the government has introduced a Support Programme for Promising Omani Companies. Implemented in coordination with the Promising Omani Startups Programme, the initiative offers targeted financial and technical assistance to startups developing AI-based solutions. Together, these projects reflect a coordinated national approach to harnessing the economic potential of AI and advanced digital technologies. By fostering innovation, enhancing institutional efficiency, and enabling smarter public services, the AI Economics initiative is poised to support Oman's transition toward a knowledge-based economy. As implementation progresses, the integration of AI into economic planning and service delivery is expected to open new pathways for growth, investment, and competitiveness. These developments reinforce the Sultanate's ambition to lead digital transformation efforts across the region.
Observer
02-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman deploys AI to drive Vision 2040 goals
MUSCAT, JUNE 2 The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MoTCIT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, has launched a portfolio of artificial intelligence (AI) pilot projects across strategic sectors, as part of the 'AI Economics' initiative under Oman's National Programme for Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Digital Technologies. According to the MTCIT's 2024 annual report, the initiative seeks to embed AI tools within priority sectors including healthcare, energy, investment, public administration, and tourism. The overarching aim is to accelerate economic diversification, build national digital capabilities, and align with the long-term objectives of Oman Vision 2040. The newly introduced projects are designed to improve decision-making, service delivery, and operational efficiency across both public and private sectors. Each initiative reflects the government's strategic intent to position Oman as a regional leader in the digital economy. One of the flagship initiatives is the National Center for Virtual Health, which leverages AI to provide remote specialised healthcare services. The project aims to expand access to medical care, particularly in remote areas, while reducing the overall burden on physical health infrastructure. In the field of energy and natural resources, the Geological Data Analysis project applies AI to enhance the accuracy of identifying oil, gas, and mineral deposits, as well as locating potential sites for renewable energy development. The government has also launched an Environmental Information Bank, which combines AI and blockchain technologies to create a secure and intelligent system for managing environmental data. This platform is expected to support more informed policymaking in areas such as climate change, conservation, and pollution control. In the media sector, the Ain Media Platform has been introduced to improve the quality and personalisation of media services offered to users. The platform uses AI algorithms to streamline content delivery and tailor experiences based on user preferences. Another key initiative is the Investment Data Dashboard, an interactive tool powered by AI that enables real-time analysis of investment flows and economic indicators. This dashboard is designed to support evidence-based policymaking and attract foreign direct investment by improving data transparency. To support tourism and transport, the Smart Gates in Dhofar project has been rolled out to monitor vehicle movements, congestion levels, and tourist volumes, particularly during high season. The initiative is expected to enhance traffic management and facilitate more efficient planning for tourism services in the southern governorate. Within the realm of public sector reform, the Smart Administration programme focuses on automating administrative procedures to improve efficiency and responsiveness in government services. The project aligns with national efforts to digitise service delivery and reduce bureaucratic delays. The Training Workshop Management system is another AI-enabled platform designed to optimise content organisation and evaluate the effectiveness of capacity-building programmes. It will provide real-time feedback and analytics to improve training outcomes across government institutions. To stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship, the government has introduced a Support Programme for Promising Omani Companies. Implemented in coordination with the Promising Omani Startups Programme, the initiative offers targeted financial and technical assistance to startups developing AI-based solutions. Together, these projects reflect a coordinated national approach to harnessing the economic potential of AI and advanced digital technologies. By fostering innovation, enhancing institutional efficiency, and enabling smarter public services, the AI Economics initiative is poised to support Oman's transition toward a knowledge-based economy. As implementation progresses, the integration of AI into economic planning and service delivery is expected to open new pathways for growth, investment, and competitiveness. These developments reinforce the Sultanate's ambition to lead digital transformation efforts across the region.
