Microsoft’s AI Tour stopped in Muscat, bringing together industry leaders and government officials to explore AI’s impact on Oman’s digital economy. Notable speakers included top Microsoft executives who reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Oman’s Vision 2040. The event highlighted practical AI applications across sectors and awarded organizations for their AI contributions, while emphasizing responsible AI practices.
On Thursday, Muscat hosted Microsoft’s global AI Tour, part of a 60-country initiative, at the St Regis Hotel. This significant event united industry leaders, developers, and government representatives to discuss the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in advancing Oman’s digital economy. Microsoft’s involvement reflects its commitment to fostering innovation aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040 roadmap, providing advanced AI solutions to enhance various sectors.
Key figures from Microsoft addressed attendees, including Samer Abu-Ltaif, President of Microsoft EMEA, and other regional executives. Mr. Abu-Ltaif emphasized Oman’s role as a forward-thinking nation that harnesses technology for economic growth. He reiterated Microsoft’s dedication to supporting Oman’s progress through reliable cloud and AI solutions that foster sustainable development.
Sheikh Saif Hilal al Hosni, Country Manager for Microsoft Oman and Bahrain, underlined the growing recognition of AI by Omani enterprises as essential for increasing efficiency and competitiveness. He noted Microsoft’s efforts to empower businesses across different sectors with state-of-the-art AI and cloud technologies, enhancing the nation’s digital economic landscape.
The event presented practical AI applications via Microsoft’s partnerships with key Omani institutions. The Ministry of Education introduced an AI-powered chatbot for immediate information access and is incorporating Microsoft Copilot to improve educational methodologies. Similarly, initiatives at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences and Omantel showcase the integration of AI in enhancing organizational operations and cybersecurity measures.
Ahmed Al Habib from Oman Housing Bank shared how the bank utilized Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance productivity significantly. He remarked on the transformative impact of AI in daily operations, allowing service improvements for clients due to boosted operational efficiency.
Furthermore, the AI Tour acknowledged local enterprises through the AI Excellence Awards, which honorees such as the Ministry of Education and Oman Housing Bank received for implementing successful AI solutions. This recognition highlights the progress made in AI adoption across various sectors in Oman.
The event also included technical sessions detailing Microsoft’s core AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot and Copilot Agents, aimed at enhancing workplace productivity. Discussions on Responsible AI practices reaffirmed Microsoft’s commitment to ethical AI development. Attendees engaged with Microsoft Surface AI PCs and Copilot+ PCs, illustrating AI’s integration into creative and productive workflows.
Microsoft’s AI Tour in Muscat showcased the potential of Artificial Intelligence in advancing Oman’s digital economy. The collaboration between Microsoft and various Omani enterprises illustrates the commitment to harnessing AI for better efficiency and innovation. This initiative not only reinforces strategic partnerships but also recognizes the importance of responsible AI practices as Oman moves towards its Vision 2040 aspirations.
Original Source: www.muscatdaily.com
