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CEO’s interview on The Energy Year-post


The Energy Year talks to Maqbool Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park (ODP), about the role the company plays in Oman’s digital infrastructure and how it is supporting the digitalisation of the oil and gas sector. Oman Data Park offers managed IT, hosting, cloud services and security services in Oman.


What role does Oman Data Park play in Oman’s digital infrastructure?

When we launched Oman Data Park back in 2012, our goal was simple: to build local capability, ensure data sovereignty and be early movers in the digital space. What began as a modest project is now a critical component of Oman’s digital economy. As technologies such as AI, IoT and robotics accelerate demand, data centres are no longer just supporting infrastructure. They’re at the centre of everything.

Today, ODP operates five data centres with 10 MW of power, and we aim to double that to 20 MW. But we’re not doing it in isolation. We’re aligning with the broader ecosystem, leveraging Oman’s strategic submarine connectivity, abundant and affordable power and the country’s push to make digitalisation 10% of GDP by 2040.

We have plans for expansion in Salalah and to scale our Duqm site, but timing is key. We’re tracking demand closely to ensure commercial viability.


What kind of international partnerships is Oman Data Park looking to build, and what makes Oman an attractive hub for global players?

When we talk about international partnerships, we’re not interested in short-term, transactional deals. What we seek are strategic, bilateral relationships where partners invest in Oman, leverage our infrastructure and actively contribute to our ecosystem – uplifting SMEs, enhancing local skill sets and gaining market reach in Oman and beyond.

Oman offers high connectivity via submarine cables, ample power availability and low latency, making it a prime location for data embassies and disaster recovery hubs. We have historical and logistical ties to East Africa and regional networks that partners can tap into.

Unfortunately, many look at us only through the lens of GDP, and that’s a mistake. The real value lies in our infrastructure and geolocation. Oman can be a hub not just to serve Oman but to serve broader markets across continents.


How is Oman Data Park supporting the oil and gas sector’s digital transformation?

We’re working closely with major oil and gas players – Oxy, PDO, OQ, SLB and Halliburton – because we understand that digitalisation is no longer optional for them. It’s embedded in their DNA. With SLB, we’ve deployed their Delfi solution locally, not just to serve Oman but potentially neighbouring markets as well. These companies are under constant pressure to optimise costs, and the capex- and opex-heavy model of the past no longer works.

With Oman Data Park, they’re moving to a service-based model that can reduce the total cost of ownership by up to 45% over five years. As GPU [graphic-processing-unit] demands surge with AI, rack power requirements are jumping from 8 kW to 120 kW.

This has a real impact on their bottom line. By shifting to our cloud-based services such as automated e-procurement or drilling software, we help these firms focus on oil and gas, not IT, while directly improving their P&L [profit and loss] performance.


What is Oman Data Park’s current market share in the energy sector?

Today, Oman Data Park holds a 75% market share in the energy sector, and we’re committed to deepening that impact. We’re bridging local energy operators with global hyperscalers such as AWS [Amazon Web Services], Microsoft, Oracle and Google, enabling them to manage digital workloads with high SLAs [service level agreements] while optimising costs and boosting agility.

We’ve already landed Oracle Cloud Infrastructure in our centres, including DR [disaster recovery] deployment in our Ibri site and in an upcoming facility in Nizwa. Both are designed to ensure high availability for the oil and gas sector.

We’re not just hosting; we’re investing upfront, identifying operational pain points through workshops and tailoring solutions, AI-based or otherwise. Our model is long-term and strategic. We carry the investment risk, offer these services locally and help lift gross margins, which in turn supports Oman’s GDP.


How are you incorporating renewable energy into your data centre operations?

Sustainability is no longer optional. It’s directly tied to cost and margins. We’re actively working to integrate solar power into our operations. We’re finalising a connection to the Ibri solar plant, planning to build our own plant for Nizwa and completing solar installation for Muscat data centres by Q4 2025.

While going green isn’t our core business, it’s essential for reducing power costs and maintaining profitability, especially as AI workloads, and their energy demands, accelerate.


Can you tell us about the National large language model (LLM) project that Oman Data Park is developing?

We’re currently building a national LLM in partnership with MTCIT. It aims to transform how Oman’s government operates by making services faster and more efficient through AI. The initial use cases are tailored for ministries such as health, legal affairs and finance, focusing on tasks such as document analysis and automated communication.

What makes this unique is that it’s fully Omani. It is built with local data, culture and context, ensuring sovereignty and relevance. The success of this national LLM will pave the way for a second phase dedicated to the energy sector, offering similar benefits around cost reduction and operational agility.

We’re also in talks with global AI leaders such as Nvidia, Cohere and OpenAI, not for one-off deals but rather to build strategic, bilateral relationships and attract meaningful investment into Oman as a regional AI hub.


What KPIs are you targeting as part of your growth strategy over the next decade?

By 2030, Oman Data Park aims to achieve three strategic milestones: reach OMR 100 million [USD 259.3 million] in revenue, rank among the top 10 data centre and cloud providers in the region, and, most importantly, evolve into a full end-to-end digital solutions provider.

We want to go beyond hosting to automating critical national and regional assets – such as ports – through IoT, the cloud and AI. This shift will position us as a key contributor to Oman’s digital GDP, aligning both with national priorities and shareholder expectations.

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Oman Data Park Advances Net Zero Goals with the Country’s First Green Energy Data Center Initiative

Muscat. 17 August. Oman Data Park (ODP), the Sultanate’s premier provider of managed services, cloud solutions, and advanced cybersecurity, has entered into a strategic partnership with Solar Wadi to launch a transformative solar power project that will generate 1.4 megawatts (MW) of clean energy in its initial phase. A subsequent expansion will add an additional 400 kilowatts (kW) of capacity, reinforcing its commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of its data operations. This pioneering initiative will directly power ODP’s data centers and represents a decisive step toward the establishment of Oman’s first Green Energy Data Center, an ambition that underscores the company’s dedication to sustainable digital infrastructure and its alignment with the nation’s Net Zero targets outlined under Oman Vision 2040.


Speaking on the announcement, Maqbool Al Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park, said, “This initiative is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it is a statement of intent about the future of data management in Oman. Integrating large-scale solar power generation into mission-critical facilities marks a turning point in how we approach energy resilience in the digital economy. By aligning renewable innovation with operational reliability, we are redefining the standards for sustainable cloud and data services, while advancing a technology landscape grounded in environmental responsibility.”


The first phase of the project will see the installation of solar panels in the wadi area and atop the Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM) 4 building in Rusayl to capture optimal sunlight and maximize electricity generation. The generated power will be channeled directly into existing electrical panels and switchgear, providing an estimated 1.4 MW of clean energy for ODP’s operations. Phase Two will extend coverage by an additional 400 kW through the installation of solar infrastructure in the facility’s car parking area, further reinforcing ODP’s renewable energy potential.


In addition to Rusayl, ODP’s upcoming state-of-the-art data center in Firq, Nizwa, has been purpose-built with solar infrastructure integrated into its very foundation. Designed to deliver a total power output of 4.4 MW and to accommodate over 500 racks, with the solar initiative the facility will, from inception, generate an estimated 350 kW of that capacity from clean, solar-powered electricity, thereby advancing ODP’s long-term strategy for environmentally responsible, next-generation data services.


By embedding sustainability into its development roadmap, ODP continues to solidify its standing at the forefront of the region’s transition to a green, circular economy. This initiative strengthens the nation’s renewable energy momentum and underscores ODP’s influence in shaping the future of Oman’s technologically advanced, eco-conscious infrastructure.

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Oman Data Park Partners with Bug Bounty Oman to Strengthen National Cybersecurity

Muscat. April 28. In a significant move aimed at enhancing Oman’s cybersecurity infrastructure, Oman Data Park (ODP), a leading provider of cloud solutions and managed services in the Sultanate, has entered into a strategic Teaming Agreement with the Omani Vulnerability Hunters Reward Platform, known as Bug Bounty Oman, the nation’s premier platform offering Bug Bounty as a Service to organizations across Oman.


This landmark agreement aims to establish a robust, trusted, and secure channel for responsible vulnerability disclosure. By doing so, it enables both public and private sector institutions to take a proactive approach in identifying and addressing cybersecurity risks before they escalate. The partnership also plays a pivotal role in strengthening Oman’s growing cybersecurity ecosystem by fostering local talent, promoting a culture of ethical hacking, and instilling a sense of digital responsibility throughout the nation.


Maqbool Al Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park, stated, “This collaboration marks a crucial step forward in our commitment to safeguarding Oman’s digital infrastructure. As digital transformation accelerates across all sectors, the need for secure, resilient systems becomes increasingly critical. Our approach to cybersecurity transcends the conventional focus on technology alone. It is about forging strategic partnerships built on trust, collaboration, and a shared responsibility to enhance the nation’s digital landscape.”


He further added, “Our engagement with Bug Bounty Oman further underscores our confidence in the capabilities of Omani talent and our commitment to fostering community-driven security solutions. By creating an environment where skilled individuals can contribute meaningfully and ethically to Oman’s digital advancement, we are building a cybersecurity framework that not only protects but also empowers. This collaboration enables institutions to operate with confidence while preparing the next generation of cybersecurity leaders to meet the challenges of an increasingly connected world.”


Bug Bounty Oman plays a critical role in empowering highly skilled Omani security researchers, providing them with a structured platform to identify and report security vulnerabilities. This collaboration will

further promote a culture of innovation and excellence within the cybersecurity community, offering a meaningful opportunity for researchers to contribute directly to the country’s digital defense.


Moreover, the agreement facilitates deeper cooperation between government entities, critical sectors, and the broader cybersecurity community. This alignment is essential in addressing the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats and ensuring that the nation’s digital infrastructure remains secure and resilient.

The partnership aligns with Oman’s strategic vision under Vision 2040, which seeks to accelerate digital transformation, foster innovation, and ensure national security in the digital age. Together, Oman Data Park and Bug Bounty Oman are setting a new benchmark for collaborative cybersecurity efforts in the region, reinforcing Oman’s position as a leader in the evolving digital ecosystem.


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Oman Data Park Leads Groundbreaking AI Collaboration for Oman’s Digital Future

Oman Data Park Leads Groundbreaking AI Collaboration for Oman’s Digital Future

Muscat, 23 April 2025– Oman Data Park (ODP), the Sultanate’s leading provider of managed IT services and cloud solutions, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with strategic technology partners to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative AI solutions across Oman’s key industries. This transformative collaboration will impact sectors including Telecom, Travel, Tourism, Banking and Financial Services (BFSI), Logistics, and Hospitality, aligned with the nation’s digital transformation agenda and Vision 2040.

At the heart of this partnership is a shared ambition to co-develop scalable, sector-specific AI solutions tailored to Oman’s regulatory and operational environment. The initiative will leverage ODP’s sovereign cloud infrastructure, ensuring data residency, regulatory compliance, and scalable deployment within a secure and robust digital ecosystem. This foundational capability supports the broader goal of localizing emerging technologies to address the unique challenges and opportunities within the Sultanate.

Commenting on the collaboration, Eng. Maqbool Al Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park, stated, “This agreement represents a pivotal milestone in Oman’s journey toward becoming a digitally empowered, AI-ready nation. By fusing world-class AI capabilities with our sovereign cloud infrastructure, we are enabling localized, secure, and scalable solutions that truly cater to the evolving needs of Oman’s vital industries. More than just a technology initiative, this partnership reflects our commitment to nurturing Omani talent, promoting innovation, and supporting the ambitions of Oman Vision 2040. Together with our partners, we are laying the groundwork for a smarter, more resilient digital future for the Sultanate.”

 

CP Gurnani, Co-founder and CEO, AIonOS, added: “This partnership with Oman Data Park represents more than just a strategic alliance—it’s a shared mission to bring AI from the drawing board into real-world impact across Oman’s key sectors. At AIonOS, we have always believed that AI is most powerful when it’s human-centred, localized, and aligned with national priorities. By co-developing AI solutions tailored to Oman’s regulatory landscape and leveraging ODP’s sovereign cloud, we are ensuring that innovation respects compliance, security, and cultural context. The road ahead is exciting, and we are committed to walking it side by side with ODP and the people of Oman”.

The agreement also focuses on the development of practical, vertical-specific AI use cases by combining technical innovation with ODP’s end-to-end managed services. This synergy is expected to unlock new opportunities in automation, predictive analytics, and operational efficiency—delivering measurable value to enterprises and public institutions alike. A joint go-to-market strategy will drive the commercial deployment of these solutions, broadening access and accelerating client adoption across Oman.

Aligned with the national vision, the collaboration also emphasizes talent development, knowledge sharing, and the upskilling of local professionals. Through training programs, innovation labs, and collaborative learning platforms, the partners aim to cultivate a thriving ecosystem of Omani AI expertise. Simultaneously, the partnership outlines a roadmap for continuous innovation, keeping pace with advancements in large language models (LLMs), predictive analytics, and intelligent automation—reinforcing Oman’s role as a regional hub for AI-driven transformation.

Such strategic alliance reaffirms Oman Data Park’s commitment to shaping the future of AI in the Sultanate and underscores its position as a key enabler of a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, technology, and local talent.

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Fortinet and Oman Data Park Host Oman’s First-Ever ‘Flag the Hack 2025,’ Advancing Cybersecurity Excellence

Fortinet and Oman Data Park Host Oman’s First-Ever ‘Flag the Hack 2025,’ Advancing Cybersecurity Excellence

Oman Data Park (ODP), a leading provider of managed IT and cybersecurity services in the Sultanate, acted as the exclusive sponsor of Oman’s first-ever edition of the premier cybersecurity event, Flag the Hack 2025, held on 17 February at the Mandarin Oriental, Muscat. Conducted by Fortinet, this landmark event brought together eminent industry leaders and seasoned security professionals to address real-world cybersecurity challenges through innovative competitions, dynamic knowledge-sharing, and collaborative learning.

Flag the Hack has earned a distinguished reputation as a pivotal platform for fostering expert-led discussions, hands-on technical engagement, and the development of advanced competencies necessary to address the shifting cyber threat landscape. By championing such initiatives, ODP reinforces its position as a leader in driving technological innovation and equipping businesses and individuals to navigate the challenges of an increasingly interconnected digital world.

Eng. Maqbool Al Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park, underscored the significance of the event, stating, “Cybersecurity is no longer a specialized concern; it is a universal imperative for governments, businesses, and individuals. Flag the Hack serves as a vital conduit for promoting a culture of readiness and innovation in addressing emerging cyber threats. By supporting transformative events like these, we aim to cultivate a society that is not only vigilant but also well-prepared to counter sophisticated security challenges. These initiatives bridge the divide between theoretical knowledge and practical application, providing participants with actionable insights and critical skills to tackle real-world scenarios. In a digital age defined by rapid transformation, fostering resilience and maintaining a secure cyber environment are crucial. Moreover, such events align with our mission to fortify the nation’s digital infrastructure and nurture a forward-looking cybersecurity ecosystem.”

The agenda also featured a series of compelling sessions, including Fortinet’s SecOps strategy briefing and an in-depth presentation from FortiGuard Labs on navigating the ever-changing cyber threat landscape. These expert discussions delved into pressing topics such as current threats and vulnerabilities, the tactics of nation-state and non-state actors, emerging technologies, common attack vectors, and defensive strategies. Participants gained actionable insights into incident response best practices and effective approaches to fortify organizational defenses. The event culminated in the ‘Flag the Hack’ challenge, which combined strategic decision-making with hands-on activities, including elements such as ‘purple team exercises.’ These exercises allowed participants to navigate realistic scenarios, honing their investigative and forensic skills while fostering innovative problem-solving approaches. By working in diverse, randomly

assigned teams, attendees gained fresh perspectives and enhanced collaboration, mirroring the multifaceted challenges faced by organizations in today’s cybersecurity landscape.

ODP’s active involvement in the event further emphasized its unwavering commitment to cultivating a culture of cooperation and knowledge-sharing within Oman’s IT and cybersecurity sectors. By facilitating engagement with industry leaders and providing access to advanced tools and methodologies, ODP continues to drive technological innovation. Through initiatives like these, the company reaffirms its dedication to enhancing resilience, forging strategic partnerships, exchanging transformative ideas, and advocating for a secure and progressive digital future for Oman.

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Oman Data Park Joins Forces with OSHRM and Elevatus to Transform Recruitment Processes with AI and Human Resources in Oman

Oman Data Park Joins Forces with OSHRM and Elevatus to Transform Recruitment Processes with AI and Human Resources in Oman

Muscat. April 21– In a strategic move that underscores Oman’s commitment to technological advancement and human capital development, Oman Data Park (ODP) has entered into a landmark Teaming Agreement with Elevatus, a globally recognized leader in AI-driven recruitment solutions, and the Omani Society for Human Resources Management (OSHRM). This three-way collaboration brings together unmatched technological capability, human resource expertise, and deep-rooted market insight to offer a groundbreaking HR and recruitment ecosystem designed specifically for Oman’s public and private sector needs. 

This partnership marks a pivotal step in accelerating Oman’s transition toward smart governance and digital transformation in line with Oman Vision 2040. By integrating Elevatus’ AI-powered recruitment and assessment tools with OSHRM’s trusted HR network and Oman Data Park’s secure, locally hosted cloud infrastructure, the alliance offers a comprehensive solution for end-to-end HR digitization. The platform empowers organizations to transform their traditional HR processes by automating and streamlining everything from talent acquisition and onboarding to assessments and performance management. Crucially, all services are delivered through secure Omani data centers, ensuring full compliance with national data regulations and enhancing trust among users. 

Maqbool Al Wahaibi, CEO of Oman Data Park, stated, “At Oman Data Park, we believe in developing digital solutions that directly contribute to national progress. This collaboration is a prime example of that philosophy in action. By merging cutting-edge technology with deep HR expertise and hosting it all within our secure, local cloud environment, we are not just improving business processes—we are shaping the future of how organizations in Oman attract, engage, and retain talent. This is about building smarter institutions that can support the nation’s long-term goals.” 

This initiative represents a strategic effort to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of HR operations across sectors, while creating a more agile, insight-driven approach to workforce management. It comes at a time when organizations across Oman are actively seeking smarter, faster, and more reliable ways to recruit and retain talent—an imperative as the country positions itself as a hub of innovation and economic competitiveness in the region. 

For OSHRM, the agreement further strengthens its position as a catalyst for progressive HR practices in Oman, while Elevatus brings global intelligence to local enterprises, ensuring that companies in Oman are equipped with the tools to compete on a world stage. 

With this agreement, Oman Data Park reaffirms its role as a national enabler, delivering world-class digital services tailored to the Sultanate’s unique regulatory and cultural environment. Together with Elevatus and OSHRM, the company is laying the foundation for a new chapter in Oman’s workforce evolution—one that is further intelligent, integrated, and aligned with the aspirations of a modern, knowledge-based economy.