The Oman Investment Authority has announced a significant expansion of its domestic investments in the semiconductor sector, a key pillar of the Sultanate’s digital economy.
These investments through the ‘Idhkaa’ group have drawn three global tech companies to set up centers in Oman, strengthening its role as a regional hub for advanced technologies.
The initiative aligns with the ‘Omani Dimension’ philosophy adopted by the Authority, which prioritizes localizing technologies, transferring expertise, and building a comprehensive national research and development ecosystem.
By fostering advanced technology sectors, the investments aim to diversify national income, create high-quality employment opportunities for Omani youth, and support the development of a sustainable knowledge-based economy.
The Authority’s investment of 5 million Omani riyals ($13 million) in GSMA, a semiconductor design firm, has resulted in the establishment of an integrated semiconductor design technology center in Oman.
The center trains Omani engineers in electronic chip design, including radio frequency chips, integrated circuits for power management, and other advanced silicon-based technologies.
Through the ‘Idhaa’ group, the Authority also invested 1.93 million OMR ($5 million) in Lomotiv, a specialist in programmable optics and 3D sensing technologies.
This investment has enabled the establishment of a local branch introducing advanced optical control and AI technologies, while providing technical employment opportunities for national cadres.
Additionally, a 7.7 million OMR ($20 million) investment in Movandi, a leader in semiconductors, smart wireless communication, and 5G technologies, has facilitated the creation of a subsidiary in Oman.
Image via ONA | Cropped by GBN
The initiative supports the development of electronic chips, signal shaping systems, and smart antennas, enhancing network performance, reducing operational costs, and advancing the implementation of fifth-generation communication systems.
The investment also ensures the transfer of specialized expertise and the continued employment of Omani talent in the advanced communications sector.
Collectively, these investments reinforce Oman’s strategy to become a regional center for advanced technology industries, leveraging the Oman Investment Authority’s National Development Portfolio, which manages over 160 holding and subsidiary companies across strategic economic sectors.
The integrated investment approach maximizes local impact, supports economic diversification, and establishes an advanced industrial and technological base.
These initiatives contribute directly to the goals of Oman Vision 2040, enhancing the Sultanate’s long-term competitiveness and supporting sustainable economic growth.
