Oman to Unveil Initiatives in Cybersecurity, AI at COMEX 2025

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has announced plans to launch several digital initiatives in the fields of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) in September 2025. The announcement was made during a press conference on Tuesday outlining details of COMEX 2025, which will take place at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 7 to 10. The event is expected to host more than 300 local and international companies.

H E Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Undersecretary of MTCIT for Communications and Information Technology, said the ministry aims to position COMEX as a strategic platform to promote investment opportunities in the ICT sector. The event will support emerging technology firms, enhance local content, encourage public-private partnerships, and foster international collaboration.

This year’s edition will see widespread participation from companies, specialised pavilions, and a range of activities. MTCIT will showcase key projects and initiatives under the National Digital Economy Programme at its dedicated pavilion.

The exhibition will also feature a series of workshops and events covering themes such as digital investment, e-gaming, digital tourism, and creative content. These activities are designed to attract startups and investors and to stimulate growth in Oman’s digital economy.

COMEX 2025 will host the Cybersecurity Forum, which will highlight national efforts and achievements in the field. The forum aims to support local startups and young Omanis in developing advanced cybersecurity solutions while also drawing on international expertise.

Another major highlight will be the AI and Quantum Computing Forum, which seeks to raise awareness of advanced technologies and promote research and industrial partnerships. Discussions will focus on applications of quantum AI across key sectors. A hackathon focused on cybersecurity solutions will also be held as part of the event.

Dr Shidhani pointed to the success of COMEX 2024, which resulted in the signing of 60 agreements and memoranda of understanding worth over RO85 million (US$221.06 million) – a 112% increase compared to 2023. The previous edition featured more than 60 workshops, 25 startup events, 100 expert speakers, and 350 participating entities, drawing over 80,000 visitors.

He also noted the strong performance of Oman’s ICT sector, which grew by 10.6% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Local investment in AI reached nearly RO60 million (US$156.04 million) by the end of last year, driven by national initiatives focused on advanced technologies.

COMEX 2025 will include a digital investment zone designed to attract local and international investors, localise emerging technologies, and promote Oman as a regional hub for digital investment. A dedicated pavilion for tech startups will also be established, offering specialised workshops.