The Governorates Economics Forum 2024 took place in Muscat, presided over by HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth. The forum focused on enhancing decentralization and domestic development, as well as utilizing the competitive advantages of Oman. The launch of the Governorates’ Competitiveness Index was a key highlight, aimed at directing investments and determining development priorities to achieve the goals of Oman Vision 2040. An exhibition showcasing successful development projects and initiatives, including the Governorates Competitiveness Index and Governorates Tourism Initiatives, was held on the sidelines of the forum.
Economy Minister Dr. Said Mohammed Al Saqri highlighted the significance of the Governorates Competitiveness Index in providing a comprehensive overview of the development progress in each governorate. This index enables decision-makers to formulate development policies and plans based on accurate data, covering economic and social aspects, infrastructure, education, health, and other vital sectors. The Minister also announced the launch of the Governorates’ Tourism Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, allocating funds to support projects that enhance the tourism sector in Omani governorates and utilize their comparative advantages.
The forum included dialogue sessions addressing the current status and future prospects of local development in Oman, focusing on enablers that support the strategic approach to decentralization. Panel discussions explored action plans and strategic visions to expand local development economically and socially, overcoming challenges in the process. The participation of strategic partners from the government and private sectors, as well as experts and civil society institutions, aimed to enhance community involvement in shaping strategies and determining future prospects aligned with the priorities of the Governorate Development Programme.
Overall, the Governorates Economics Forum 2024 aimed to promote community participation in developing strategies, expanding programs, and implementing projects during the 10th Five Year Plan. By emphasizing the significance of decentralization and local development initiatives, the forum sought to enhance the economic and social impact of development projects, realizing tangible benefits for local communities, small and medium enterprises, and generating new employment opportunities. Through collaboration and dialogue, the forum aimed to foster a strategic approach to decentralization and strengthen the development process in Oman’s governorates.
