His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said, the Honorary President of Oman’s Startups Programme, recently paid a visit to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Development Authority in Muscat. Accompanied by Halima bint Rashid Al Zarei, the Chairperson of the SMEs Development Authority, His Highness toured the new building and its various sections. Among the highlights of the tour was the Riyada incubator, which provides a supportive environment for SMEs and start-ups in sectors such as renewable energy, communication, artificial intelligence, consultations, and talent management. This incubator aims to increase the chances of success for these budding projects during their initial years.
During his visit, His Highness also learned about the craft industries’ brand identity known as Oman Crafts, as well as the outlet of the Omani Crafts House, which serves as a platform for marketing Omani crafts. Furthermore, he watched a video presentation that outlined the customer journey at the SMEs Development Authority’s customer service centre. This presentation provided valuable insights into the process and highlighted the Authority’s commitment to serving its clients effectively.
In addition, His Highness was briefed on the key digital services offered by the SMEs Development Authority and the mechanisms in place for gathering feedback from entrepreneurs via media platforms. The efforts of the Authority to accelerate its digital transformation and enhance its systems and services were also highlighted during the visit. These initiatives are a clear indication of the Authority’s commitment to leveraging technology to better support SMEs and foster innovation in Oman.
Overall, the visit of His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said to the SMEs Development Authority showcased the Authority’s dedication to providing a conducive environment for SMEs and start-ups to thrive. By offering essential support services, such as the Riyada incubator and digital platforms for communication and feedback, the Authority is playing a vital role in promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth in Oman. It is evident that the SMEs Development Authority is focused on empowering small businesses and driving innovation across various sectors, ultimately contributing to the country’s overall development and prosperity.
The collaboration between His Highness and the SMEs Development Authority is a testament to the importance of supporting small and medium enterprises as key drivers of economic growth and job creation. By investing in tools and resources that facilitate the success of SMEs, Oman is positioning itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. As the Authority continues to expand its range of services and digital capabilities, it is set to play an even more significant role in enabling the success of small businesses and start-ups in Oman.
In conclusion, the visit of His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Development Authority underscores the critical role of entrepreneurship in Oman’s economic development. With a focus on providing support services, digital innovation, and a conducive environment for SMEs to grow and succeed, the Authority is leading the way in fostering a culture of innovation and creativity in the Sultanate. Through continued collaboration and investments in technology-driven solutions, the SMEs Development Authority is poised to make a lasting impact on the country’s economy and empower small businesses to thrive in a competitive global market.
