Muscat, Oman — In a landmark partnership, Omani developer Afouq Developments and Egypt’s Prime Group have announced the launch of Oman’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Advanced Technologies Zone in Muscat. The initiative, unveiled Monday on the sidelines of the COMEX International Exhibition, is being rolled out in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.
The AI zone is positioned as a flagship project to establish Oman as a regional and global hub for technology, innovation, and investment, while creating an enabling environment for local and international start-ups.
“This zone is designed to meet the needs of tech start-ups and place Oman among leading nations in adopting and hosting cutting-edge companies,” said Siham Al-Harthi, chairperson of Afouq Developments. She emphasized that the zone would integrate advanced global technologies while drawing inspiration from Omani heritage.
Prime Group CEO Mahmoud Farrag highlighted the firm’s track record in developing international projects, noting that partnerships with corporations, research centers, and accelerators are already underway to support the zone’s development. “Our network will help create a global platform for technology companies and future investments,” Farrag added.
The move comes as Egypt strengthens its regional influence in AI with its National AI Strategy 2025–2030, built on six pillars: expanding computing infrastructure, establishing data governance frameworks, deploying real-world AI applications, talent development, ethical regulation, and fostering an innovation ecosystem.
Egypt’s growing AI footprint will also be underscored when it hosts the Middle East and Africa AI World Exhibition and Summit in February 2026, expected to draw top global companies, startups, and policymakers. Egypt is currently the only African country ranked among the world’s top 10 nations in AI and machine learning, according to the 2024 Global Competitiveness Index by GBS.
With Oman entering the AI race through its Muscat AI Zone and Egypt advancing its regional leadership, both countries are positioning themselves as pivotal players in shaping the Middle East and Africa’s digital future.
