The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion signed an agreement with ITHCA Group during Comex 2024 to relocate and host Oman Business Platform (OBP) in the cloud service. The goal of this move is to establish a competitive business environment and provide integrated services that align with the smart government scheme. Dr. Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, and Eng. Said Abdullah Al Mantheri of ITHCA Group were the signatories of the agreement. Additionally, the ministry signed another agreement with ITHCA Group to conduct a consultative study on the business environment in Oman and create a roadmap for digital transition at the Directorate General of Standards and Metrology.
OBP is a government model that utilizes international practices and standards to develop a digitally innovative business environment, aiming to motivate users through electronic services. The platform offers a range of services from the establishment of a company to the licensing of its activities. With OBP, the ministry aims to streamline the process for investors by directing them to a single platform and providing self-service options to start any business. The ‘Certificate of Origin Service’ and ‘New License Request Service’ are also available through the OBP application for smartphones. This app features the “Know Your Customer” tool, as well as services for starting a business, initiating a commercial register, searching for commercial registers, an investment guide, and the ability to track application progress.
The partnership between the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion and ITHCA Group signifies a step towards facilitating a more efficient and user-friendly business environment in Oman. Through the agreements signed, the ministry is embracing digital transformation and leveraging technology to enhance the operations at the Directorate General of Standards and Metrology. By incorporating international best practices, OBP aims to attract more investors and streamline the process of starting and operating a business in Oman. The convenience and accessibility offered through the OBP application for smartphones further demonstrate the commitment of the ministry to provide top-rated services and support the growth of businesses in the country.
Overall, the collaboration between the ministry and ITHCA Group at Comex 2024 marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more competitive and innovative business environment in Oman. The focus on digital transformation and the adoption of international standards through OBP reflect a commitment to fostering economic growth and facilitating investment in the country. By offering a range of services through the OBP platform, the ministry is working towards simplifying processes for investors and providing them with the necessary tools to navigate the business landscape in Oman efficiently. With the support of advanced technology and strategic partnerships, the ministry is paving the way for a more dynamic and vibrant business ecosystem in the Sultanate of Oman.
