Oman’s Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has launched a public consultation for the National Artificial Intelligence Policy. Suggestions have been invited from academics, experts, individuals, interested stakeholders, and other current and potential users of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help develop a comprehensive framework for AI adoption, while ensuring ethical use and protecting individual rights.
The Policy will also create provisions and guidelines pertaining to governance, transparency and accountability. The deadline of sending suggestions is August 28, 2024.
While the MTCIT’s main purpose is to raise the level of efficiency in government performance, support innovation in service delivery, and enhance spending and economic growth through the use of information and communication technology, it is also the responsible body for formulating and implementing the government digital strategies and programs in the Sultanate of Oman.
Local media reports quoted a MTCIT statement: “This framework aims to ensure optimal utilisation while safeguarding national interests and individual rights. Through this policy, the ministry seeks to lay down the foundations and guiding principles for the use and development of AI systems and datasets in both public and private sectors. Additionally, it aims to promote innovation and technological progress in this field.”
In 2020, the MTCIT had established the National Program for AI and Advanced Technologies as one of the executive programs of the National Program for the Digital Economy. The need for an AI policy stems from the growth of AI and other emerging technologies. Several Middle Eastern nations are undergoing a rapid digital transformation, and many are increasingly offering several public services online in a bid to improve efficiency. Generative AI is playing a major role in enabling online interaction with consumers of these services.