Latest news with #TejarahTalks
Observer
10-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman's sports economy ambition: From grassroots to global arena
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman is actively pursuing a strategy to transform its sporting landscape, not just for the love of the game, but as a significant driver of economic growth and diversification. Recent discussions from the "Tejarah Talks" podcast, featuring Pankaj Khimji, Advisor, Foreign Trade & International Cooperation, Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion, and Joe Rafferty, Director, Events, Oman Sail, highlight a multifaceted approach focusing on grassroots development, experiential tourism, and strategic international events. The vision is clear: to cultivate a deep-seated sports culture within the Sultanate of Oman that will naturally foster a thriving sports economy. "Unless we develop our grassroots of sports culture, whether it's in schools or in the maydans or on the beaches of Oman, unless we promote this in our family or school , we're not going to be able to get into the real business of sports," emphasised Khimji. This foundational belief underscores the need for physical education to be a core curriculum subject and for children to be introduced to sports from a very young age. Oman's inherent "DNA" for sports, as noted by Alya al Hosni of Tejarah Talks podcast and corporate affairs director at Muriya, is evident in its success in areas like beach football. The goal is to leverage this natural aptitude and build a robust ecosystem. The economic ripple effects of a thriving sports sector are extensive, extending far beyond direct participation. From equipment sales and coaching to media coverage, hospitality, and related services, the opportunities for private sector involvement are immense. The recent explosion of padel in Oman serves as a prime example of organic growth and private sector engagement. Padel clubs have sprung up across the country, becoming new social hubs. This phenomenon illustrates the potential for smaller, multi-purpose sporting centers in wilayats and non-urban areas to encourage widespread participation. "What it shows is that you probably want to build small little youth centers in wilayats in little urban non-urban townscapes to encourage people to participate and play in sports," Khimji observed, advocating for practical, state-of-the-art facilities over mega-stadiums. Beyond domestic engagement, Oman is strategically positioning itself as a destination for sports tourism. The concept of "experiential travel" – where tourists not only see but actively do – aligns perfectly with adventure sports and unique terrains. The country's diverse landscape offers unparalleled opportunities for activities like aqua trekking in wadis, 4x4 off-roading, and altitude training for athletes. "This mix of adventure sports and tourism is a huge investment opportunity," stated Khimji, highlighting the potential for automobile manufacturers to use Oman as a hub for vehicle trials. The economic benefits of hosting international teams are also gaining recognition. Khimji recounted a recent visit by Indian state cricket teams, who, after playing matches, extended their stay to explore Oman's tourist attractions like Nizwa and witness dolphins. This accidental discovery has led to a surge of interest from other Indian teams keen to tour Oman, demonstrating the power of sports to drive ancillary tourism revenue. Looking ahead, Oman has its sights set on attracting prestigious international events that align with the nation's brand. "I'd like to see a tennis tournament whether we start with the 250 or then with the 500 and probably in 10 or 7 years time to do a tennis 1000 as well ATP," Khimji articulated, emphasising the high television and media coverage such events attract. The ultimate ambition for Oman, according to Khimji, would be to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. While acknowledging the presence of F1 tracks in neighboring countries, he sees it as a complementary venture, not a competitive one. "It's not about we competing with them, it's about we participating in the sport because the sport is basically viewed on television," he explained. An F1 track, he added, would serve as a multi-purpose venue for corporate events, community gatherings, concerts, and car exhibitions, creating significant leverage. Ultimately, Oman aims to create a prominent spot on the global sporting calendar. By fostering a passionate grassroots culture, leveraging its unique natural assets for experiential tourism, and strategically attracting high-profile international events, Oman is set to score big in the dynamic world of the sports economy.
Zawya
12-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Tejarah Talks session to delve into Oman's mining sector
Industry experts will gather at the Civil Aviation Authority Training Centre on Tuesday, May 27, at 11am, to explore innovation and sustainability in the mining sector. The session will examine strategies for positioning Oman as a regional centre for mineral production. The 70-minute forum, Digging into the Future: Innovation & Sustainability in Mining, will unite specialists to review Oman's geological resources and emerging industry trends as development continues in alignment with Vision 2040 objectives. The event will showcase Oman's rich mineral heritage – known in ancient times as Majan for its copper smelting – and how these resources are being utilized today. Substantial deposits of dolomite, limestone, gypsum, gabbro, copper and gold remain partially untapped, offering significant commercial potential. 'Most people don't realize that minerals extracted in Oman are in their smartphones, cars, homes and even the food they eat,' said Badriya al Amri, Oman Business Forum Office, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and Tejarah Talks Administrator. 'This month's session will reveal how mining touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives while showcasing how innovative approaches are making the industry more sustainable.' Topics will include renewable energy adoption, efficiency improvements and low-carbon technology integration in extraction operations. Speakers will address ESG integration, digital transformation and technological advancements including drone usage and IoT applications for the sector. The discussion will emphasize the practical importance of locally-sourced minerals in everyday life. Gypsum, which reached export volumes of 12 million tonnes in 2024 - up 7.1 per cent from 2023 - is essential for manufacturing drywall, conditioning soil in agriculture and producing cement. Without it global construction would grind to a halt. Limestone is vital for cement manufacturing, glass production and as a purifier in power station emissions systems while also serving as a calcium supplement in food and medicines. Dolomite is used in manufacturing glass bottles, ceramics and as a soil enhancer for agricultural production. The event will also cover mining's role in the global green energy transition. The worldwide push toward electrification has created unprecedented demand for copper with its exceptional conductivity properties making it essential for renewable energy systems and electric vehicles (EV). It is estimated the average EV contains approximately 83kg of copper - nearly four times the 23kg found in conventional cars - primarily in batteries, motors and charging infrastructure. Similarly, renewable energy installations are copper-intensive with a single wind turbine containing up to 4 tonnes of copper in its generators, transformers and cabling systems. With sizeable copper reserves, Oman is well-positioned to benefit as countries worldwide commit to carbon reduction targets. Projects across Oman are adding value to raw minerals through processing facilities, including titanium dioxide production and aluminum manufacturing. Panelists will discuss how these capabilities contribute to economic diversification while creating high-skilled jobs in fields ranging from environmental science to robotics and data analytics. Organized by Oman Business Forum in association with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and& Investment Promotion and supported by Nortal, MHD, Invest Oman and Oman FM, May's Tejarah Talks will provide practical insights for investors, policymakers, industry stakeholders and anyone interested in understanding how mining shapes our modern world. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Times of Oman
29-04-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
F1 dreams take centre stage at Oman's sports economy talks
MUSCAT: A bold call to position Oman as a future host of Formula One (F1) dominated the latest Tejarah Talks on Monday, where top sports and events leaders outlined a compelling roadmap to unlock the country's sports economy potential. With global case studies, local success stories, and a shared vision for iconic sporting events, the session spotlighted how Oman can accelerate its rise as a premier destination in the $2.65 trillion global sports industry. Oman must dream big and think bold — and that includes aiming to one day host a Formula One Grand Prix. That was the unifying message from panellists at the latest edition of Tejarah Talks, where leaders from across Oman's sports and events sectors shared a compelling vision for the country's sports economy. Held under the theme 'Game On: The Potential of Oman's Sports Economy', the 90-minute dialogue featured Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); Joe Rafferty, Events Director at Oman Sail; and Ali al Ajmi, CEO of Sabco Sports. All three panelists agreed: Oman should consider becoming a future host of Formula One — and start planning now. 'Oman has already proven its capabilities by hosting global events. Hosting Formula One should be a serious aspiration,' said Khimji, who also serves as Oman Cricket President. 'Whether it's a city circuit along the Muscat Corniche, like Monaco or Jeddah, or a purpose-built track at Sultan Haitham City, the potential is there. I would love to see F1 in Oman.' Khimji cited Oman Cricket's achievements as a successful case study of sport-led economic development. With an investment of just $1.3 million over five years, Oman Cricket has generated more than $5 million in in-country value through hosting international tournaments — driving gains in tourism, hospitality, and infrastructure. Highlighting the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup, partially staged in Oman, he revealed that the event attracted 167 million global viewers, clocking a staggering 112 billion viewing minutes. In remarks to Times of Oman, Khimji added: 'Oman is now among the top 20 cricket nations. We are the only Associate nation to have played in three T20 World Cups, and our Test-accredited venue is even being considered to host Afghanistan's Test matches.' Khimji also proposed creating an annual iconic sports event that could anchor Oman's sporting calendar and boost international visibility. 'Just one event, hosted every year, can transform how the world sees Oman,' he said. Ali al Ajmi shared plans to further engage the nation through technology. 'Sabco Sports is set to launch the country's first dedicated sports app that will centralise all sporting activities. It's going to be a game-changer in how Omanis interact with sports at all levels.' Joe Rafferty from Oman Sail stressed the importance of building a comprehensive ecosystem to support Oman's sports economy. 'We already host world-class events. But now we need greater collaboration and a stronger infrastructure to move to the next level.' Rafferty also pointed to Oman's human capital as its greatest strength. 'The power of the people is Oman's biggest asset. With the right support and coordination, we can build something truly world-class.' The panel strongly agreed that developing a culture of sport must begin in schools. Khimji emphasised the need to introduce a structured sports curriculum, ensuring that sport becomes an integral part of growing up in Oman. He spoke about a pilot programme, conducted by Oman Cricket, which introduced over 700 Omani children aged 8–12 to organised cricket over four semesters — a powerful example of how early exposure can spark long-term engagement. 'We must start young, build infrastructure, and develop the mindset. Sports must be seen as a viable career and a national asset,' Khimji said. Ajmi and Rafferty echoed this, with Rafferty adding: 'If we want to be world-class in the future, we need to embed sport in everyday life — starting with schools.' The panellists also noted that sport can bring wide-ranging societal benefits — from reducing healthcare costs to strengthening community bonds — and called for a national strategy that integrates infrastructure, talent development, and public-private partnerships. Organised by the Oman Business Forum in collaboration with MoCIIP, and supported by MHD, Nortal, Invest Oman Lounge, and Oman FM, the session explored not only the trillion-dollar global sports economy but how Oman's unique landscape, and youthful population can position it as a sought-after sports destination.
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Industry leaders to explore opportunities in Oman's sports economy
Muscat– Oman's sporting heritage and natural advantages position it to capitalise on the rapidly expanding global sports economy. On April 29, industry leaders will gather at the Civil Aviation Authority Training Centre to explore strategic opportunities in this dynamic sector. The 70-minute Tejarah Talks, 'Game On: The Potential of Oman's Sports Economy,' session brings together experts who understand both the country's competitive advantages and emerging trends in the world's ninth-largest industry, valued at $2.65tn. Moderated by Jamal al Asmi, Executive Producer, RealityCG, the panelists are Pankaj Khimji, Foreign Trade and International Cooperation Advisor, Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); Joe Rafferty, Events Director, Oman Sail; and Ali al Ajmi, CEO of Sabco Sports. The discussion will highlight market opportunities, including S and the fast-growing eSports sector, now valued at $6.6bn with over 500mn viewers worldwide. The sustainable sports market, worth $26.2bn and projected to grow at 7.9% CAGR through 2032 offers particular promise as Oman pursues its 2050 Net Zero target. Key topics will include the unique, year-round sports experiences offered by Oman's diversity of landscapes and favourable climate for sports tourism and events, developing infrastructure through public-private partnerships and creating career pathways in sports management. And with a median age of approximately 29 and internet penetration exceeding 95%, Oman's demographics align well with emerging sports sectors like eSports. The panel will examine successful international models, including Barcelona's Olympic investments that yielded substantial economic returns and Singapore's innovative Sports Hub PPP structure. These case studies offer valuable insights for Oman's strategic sports planning. Beyond economic potential, the session will address the broader societal impact of sports. Research indicates communities with strong sports infrastructure experience enhanced social outcomes while regular physical activity reduces national healthcare costs significantly. Organised by Oman Business Forum in association with MoCIIP and supported by MHD, Nortal, Invest Oman Lounge and Oman FM, April's Tejarah Talks aims to provide actionable insights for investors, policymakers and industry stakeholders interested in developing Oman's sports sector in alignment with Vision 2040 objectives. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
22-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
Sports leaders to map Oman's $2.65 trillion opportunity
Oman's sporting heritage and natural advantages position it to capitalize on the rapidly expanding global sports economy. At 11 am on Tuesday, April 29, industry leaders will gather at the Civil Aviation Authority Training Centre to explore strategic opportunities in this dynamic sector. The 70-minute Tejarah Talks, 'Game On: The Potential of Oman's Sports Economy,' session brings together experts who understand both the country's competitive advantages and emerging trends in the world's ninth-largest industry, valued at $2.65 trillion. Moderated by Jamal al Asmi, Executive Producer, RealityCG, the panelists are Pankaj Khimji, Foreign Trade & International Cooperation Advisor, Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion (MoCIIP); Joe Rafferty, Events Director, Oman Sail; and Ali al Ajmi, CEO, Sabco Sports. The discussion will highlight market opportunities, including sports tourism which contributes $583 billion annually to the global economy and the fast-growing eSports sector, now valued at $6.6 billion with over 500 million viewers worldwide. The sustainable sports market, worth $26.2 billion and projected to grow at 7.9 per cent CAGR through 2032 offers particular promise as Oman pursues its 2050 Net Zero target. Key topics will include the unique, year-round sports experiences offered by Oman's diversity of landscapes and favourable climate for sports tourism and events, developing infrastructure through public-private partnerships and creating career pathways in sports management. And with a median age of approximately 29 and internet penetration exceeding 95 per cent, Oman's demographics align well with emerging sports sectors like eSports. The panel will examine successful international models, including Barcelona's Olympic investments that yielded substantial economic returns and Singapore's innovative Sports Hub PPP structure. These case studies offer valuable insights for Oman's strategic sports planning. Beyond economic potential, the session will address the broader societal impact of sports. Research indicates communities with strong sports infrastructure experience enhanced social outcomes while regular physical activity reduces national healthcare costs significantly. Organized by Oman Business Forum in association with MoCIIP and supported by MHD, Nortal, Invest Oman Lounge and Oman FM, April's Tejarah Talks aims to provide actionable insights for investors, policymakers, and industry stakeholders interested in developing Oman's sports sector in alignment with Vision 2040 objectives.
