The cybersecurity sector in Oman is gearing up for significant advancements, as per the recent announcement made by H.E. Eng. Said bin Hamoud bin Said al Ma’awali, the Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT). The 12th edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Week, held in Muscat, served as the platform for revealing a series of initiatives aimed at boosting cybersecurity in Oman.
With over 600 decision-makers, experts, and specialists from 60 countries in attendance, the four-day conference shed light on critical developments in cybersecurity and the various threats faced by governments, national institutions, and vital industries. Minister Ma’awali, in his opening address, underscored Oman’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in the cybersecurity domain.
The introduction of the CREST CAMP program emerged as a standout initiative, intended to elevate the maturity of companies providing cybersecurity services in Oman. This program, in partnership with the renowned British CREST organization, is vital for advancing cybersecurity in Oman. Additionally, the announcement of the Hadatha Center for the Cybersecurity Industry, in collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, aims to nurture local talent within the cybersecurity sector, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital world.
Another groundbreaking move is the launch of the Cybersecurity Industry Monitoring Centre, touted as a global first. This center will monitor the growth of cybersecurity in Oman, ensuring adaptability and responsiveness to cyber threats. The minister’s acknowledgment of Oman’s high global cybersecurity readiness, as indicated in the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index by the International Telecommunication Union, reflects the nation’s collaborative efforts with entities like the Cyber Defence Centre.
Oman’s innovative approaches in cybersecurity were highlighted during the week’s events, including the first Gulf Cybersecurity Industry Hackathon aimed at fostering creativity and encouraging innovative solutions to cybersecurity challenges. The introduction of the Hadatha Award for the Cybersecurity Industry seeks to recognize excellence among individuals and institutions in Oman’s cybersecurity landscape, inspiring them to uphold high standards in cybersecurity practices.
Looking ahead, H.E. Ma’awali emphasized the government’s focus on diversifying income sources through technology, knowledge, and innovation. Positioning the digital economy as a national priority entails developing advanced infrastructure to address evolving challenges in the cybersecurity sector. The initiatives unveiled during the Regional Cybersecurity Week signify Oman’s proactive stance in fortifying its cybersecurity sector and enhancing its resilience.
By promoting collaboration among stakeholders and investing in local talent, Oman is not only securing its digital landscape but also paving the way for a competitive digital economy on a global scale. This strategic approach aligns with the nation’s vision for a robust cybersecurity framework that can effectively address emerging threats and propel economic growth in the digital era.