Oman Tourism Development Company Sparks Innovation in Oman’s Tourism with Launch of Pioneering Hackathon

Published on December 16, 2024

In a pioneering effort to accelerate innovation and support entrepreneurship in Oman’s tourism industry, the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) has announced the launch of its inaugural Hackathon. Taking place from 14 to 21 December 2024, this event aims to bring together a diverse group of developers, designers, and young entrepreneurs to create groundbreaking solutions for challenges within the tourism sector and other critical areas such as energy, environment, logistics, and more.

Strategic partnerships are at the core of the event, with the Oman Across Ages Museum and the Al Dakhliya Governorate collaborating to host this exciting initiative. The event will also involve several entities from the Oman Investment Authority, while execution will be handled by Al Jabr, a recognized leader in startup development and institutional innovation within the MENA region.

The OMRAN Hackathon will serve as an open platform for emerging talent in technology, artificial intelligence, environmental sustainability, and other key sectors. Participants will be tasked with transforming their innovative ideas into actionable prototypes and projects that address both immediate and long-term challenges in these industries.

The event kicks off on 14 December with an official launch ceremony at the Oman Across Ages Museum. On 19 and 20 December, an intensive innovation sprint will take place at Dusit D2 Naseem Resort in Al Jabal Al Akhdar, offering participants a chance to engage in collaborative brainstorming and receive mentorship from industry experts. The Hackathon will conclude on 21 December, with teams presenting their final projects to a distinguished panel of judges at Dusit D2 Naseem Resort, where top innovators will be recognized and awarded prizes for their ingenuity.

The Hackathon invites developers, designers, university students specializing in technology, tourism, business, and other related fields, as well as entrepreneurs from the tourism and technology sectors, to apply. Out of over 100 registered teams, only 30 will be selected to compete, ensuring that the most promising talent takes center stage.

Workshops and mentorship sessions throughout the event will provide participants with the tools and guidance needed to refine their ideas and develop practical, real-world solutions. The rigorous evaluation process, led by industry leaders and government officials, promises to provide valuable exposure and rewards for participants who present the most innovative and impactful projects.

The OMRAN Hackathon marks a significant milestone in Oman’s commitment to fostering innovation, advancing its tourism sector, and creating sustainable solutions for the future. It also provides a unique opportunity for Omani entrepreneurs and technologists to make their mark on a global stage.

Commenting on the launch of the OMRAN Hackathon, Kawthar Said Al Amrani, Research, Development & Innovation Lead at OMRAN Group said: “We are thrilled to launch the First edition of the OMRAN Hackathon, which reflects our dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the tourism sector. Through this initiative, we aim to empower local talent to establish SMEs that will be able to provide sustainable solutions that will boost the competitiveness of Oman’s tourism sector.”

Mohammed Salim Al Wahibi, CEO of Al Jabr MENA also expressed pride in launching the HACKATHON, highlighting the significance of such initiatives in promoting innovation and achieving sustainability. He stated: “At Aljabr MENA, we are committed to supporting entrepreneurship and developing national talent by providing a nurturing environment for creativity. This enables young individuals to craft innovative solutions, and in this particular HACKATHON, to enhance the tourism sector and drive sustainable development in Oman. The OMRAN Hackathon aims to turn challenges into opportunities and reflects our vision of delivering added value to our national economy.”