Skip to Content

Space

Explore Opportunities in Oman’s Growing Tech and Innovation Ecosystem

Oman National Space Program

Advancing Innovation, Exploration, and Economic Growth (2023–2033)

The Sultanate of Oman, through the National Center for Space, Advanced Technology, and AI under the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT), is charting an ambitious course into the future with its National Space Program. Guided by Royal Decree 90/2020, this program positions Oman as a regional gateway to space applications, supporting economic diversification, national security, capacity building, environmental preservation, and international cooperation.

A Rich Legacy and a Bold Future

Oman’s engagement with astronomy and space sciences is deeply rooted in history, with ancient Omanis using celestial knowledge for navigation, agriculture, and architecture. Modern initiatives began in the 1970s with the establishment of satellite stations across the Sultanate, expanding into observatories, research centers, and international collaborations.

By 2020, Oman formalized its space ambitions by creating the National Center for Space, Advanced Technology, and AI, joining international space organizations, and ratifying key United Nations Outer Space Treaties.

The Space Policy & Executive Program (2023–2033)

Developed with global expertise and local stakeholders, this 10-year strategy is built on three phases:

  1. Preparation (3 years) – Building capacity, legal frameworks, and infrastructure.
  2. Launch (4 years) – Implementing priority projects and initiatives.
  3. Orbital Phase (3 years) – Expanding capabilities and ensuring sustainability.

Four Strategic Pillars guide the program:

  • Economic Diversification – Fostering a competitive space economy.
  • National Security – Enhancing resilience through satellite capabilities.
  • Capacity Building – Developing local talent and expertise.
  • Environmental Stewardship – Leveraging space technology for sustainable development.

Flagship Projects

The program identifies 14 key projects — 11 core and 3 non-core — with 8 quick wins to accelerate progress. Highlights include:

  • Space Cloud Partnership – Building a space-based data ecosystem integrated with AI and edge computing.
  • Ground Station Hub & Direct Receiving Station – Leveraging Oman’s strategic location for satellite communications and Earth Observation.
  • National Space Data Platform – A digital hub for gathering, processing, and sharing satellite data across sectors.
  • End-user Applications Booster (Sandbox) – Supporting pilot projects and startups in space-based solutions.
  • Scientific Rocket Launch Platform – A dedicated site for research, education, and specialized tourism.
  • CubeSat Program – Enabling Oman’s universities to design, build, and launch small satellites.
  • National Space Observatory – Monitoring celestial phenomena and supporting research.
  • Middle East Space Conference – A biennial event positioning Oman as a regional space leader.
  • National Satellite Initiative – Ensuring sovereign, secure, and reliable communications.
  • Regional SBAS Project – Enhancing navigation accuracy and safety across the Middle East.

Investment Opportunities

Six major projects invite foreign direct investment and technology transfer, including the Space Cloud, Ground Stations, and Rocket Launch Platforms. Oman’s location near the equator, advanced telecom infrastructure, and political stability makes it an attractive base for global space ventures.

Capacity Building & Education

The program includes initiatives to integrate space sciences into school curricula, offer university aerospace programs, provide scholarships, and run hackathons and public awareness campaigns. Target groups include SMEs, researchers, and final-year students, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future space economy.

International Cooperation

Oman is an active member of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, the Arab Space Cooperation Group, and the Regional Center for Space Science and Technology Education for Western Asia. Partnerships have been signed with countries like India and Bahrain, alongside collaborations with global space agencies and companies.

Achievements to Date

Already, Oman has launched an Open Satellite Data Platform, advanced CubeSat development, built space accelerators, and established the Space Science and Technology Corner at the Children’s Museum — inspiring future generations in STEM.

A