The University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Al-Mussanah hosted the final round of the Oman IoT & AI Challenge 2025 at the university’s theater. The challenge aims to inspire innovation and strengthen the technical skills of young people and entrepreneurs in Oman. It also reflects Oman’s commitment to encouraging innovation and technology as key pillars of its digital future by creating a competitive environment that promotes research and entrepreneurship.
In his speech, Dr. Nasser Al-Baimani, AVC of the university, emphasized the importance of IoT and AI in developing young minds and inspiring creativity. He highlighted that the challenge is not only a test of technical skills but also an opportunity to empower participants to transform their ideas into real projects that contribute to sustainable development. He also stressed the university’s role in enhancing students’ skills by enabling them to develop smart solutions that address current challenges and support digital transformation.
The final round brought together the top projects and startups from the semi-final stage, selected through strict criteria focused on technical excellence and added value. Participants underwent a thorough evaluation, where projects were filtered based on quality, innovation, and practical application. The most outstanding teams advanced to the final, with winners set to represent Oman in the Arab IoT & AI Challenge—giving them a chance to compete regionally and raise the standard of innovation and excellence.
Dr. Saeed Al-Rubaie, Vice Chancellor of the university, inaugurated the accompanying exhibition, which featured five startups and 22 student graduation projects. Participants came from university branches across Al-Mussanah, Sohar, Salalah, Ibri, Nizwa, Ibra, Muscat, Shinas, Sur, as well as Sohar University and Majan University College. The exhibition served as a platform to encourage students and entrepreneurs to develop tech solutions and foster stronger collaboration between academia and industry, opening new opportunities for collaboration and investment in emerging technologies.
The Oman IoT & AI Challenge is a national platform that aims to promote innovation and enhance technical skills in IoT and AI. The challenge empowers youth and entrepreneurs to develop smart solutions addressing challenges across sectors, strengthening Oman’s position as a regional hub for technological innovation.