Overview
Innovation policy in Oman seeks to build a knowledge-based economy by strengthening the national innovation system, increasing research and development investment, and facilitating technology transfer between academia and industry. The government recognises that sustainable economic diversification requires moving beyond resource extraction toward value creation through intellectual capital. Institutions, incentives, and infrastructure are being aligned to foster a culture of innovation across all sectors.
Key Points
The Research Council funds competitive grants for applied research aligned with national priority areas. Technology transfer offices at universities commercialise academic research through licensing and spin-off companies. The national innovation strategy establishes targets for R&D spending as a percentage of GDP, aiming to reach international benchmarks. Innovation hubs and science parks provide co-location spaces where researchers, entrepreneurs, and established companies collaborate on product development and commercialisation.
Current Status
Research output from Omani institutions has increased in quantity and quality, with growing citation impact in fields such as desalination, petroleum engineering, and marine science. Patent applications by residents have risen, supported by intellectual property awareness programmes. Public-private research collaborations have produced practical solutions in areas including water treatment, renewable energy, and agricultural technology. The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, launched in 2024, accelerates adoption of frontier technologies.
Vision 2040 Context
Vision 2040 positions innovation at the centre of Oman’s economic future. The strategy calls for a thriving innovation ecosystem where ideas are generated, tested, and scaled within a supportive regulatory and financial environment. By investing in research infrastructure, human capital, and technology adoption, Oman transforms itself from a resource economy to a knowledge economy that creates value and opportunity for future generations.