Oman has witnessed a surge in investments within its space sector, amassing RO 20 million over the past two years. This growth coincides with the release of the nation's official space program in 2023, highlighting Oman's aspirations to become a regional leader in space exploration and applications.
Dr. Ali al Shidhani, Under-Secretary of Communications and IT at the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, emphasized the positive impact of the space program. He noted a rise in the number of space-related companies established in Oman during 2022 and 2023, directly attributing this growth to the program's launch.
"We have counted an investment of roughly 20 million Omani riyals in the last two years within space activities," Dr. Shidhani revealed. This influx of capital has fostered the development of a diverse space ecosystem in Oman, encompassing both local and international players.
ETCO, the company responsible for launching Oman's first satellite, Aman-1, represents a prominent domestic participant. Additionally, NASCOM, a local entity, is spearheading the construction of the first spaceport in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, situated in Duqm.
International companies have also recognized the potential of Oman's burgeoning space sector. SatMENA, a notable example, has established a base within the country, further contributing to the sector's diversification and expertise.
Furthermore, Dr. Shidhani highlighted the involvement of non-space companies venturing into the sector, signifying a broader national interest in space exploration and its associated applications.
This surge in investments underscores Oman's commitment to transforming its space sector into a key driver of economic diversification, technological advancement, and regional influence. The nation's strategic location, coupled with its ongoing infrastructure development and supportive policies, positions it favorably to capture a significant share of the growing global space economy.