As Oman advances its Vision 2040 agenda, the creative economy emerges as a vital component in the nation’s strategy to achieve sustainable, diversified growth beyond oil. In line with a broader Middle Eastern trend, Oman is investing in non-oil sectors—particularly the creative industries—which harness intellectual capital and innovation across domains such as film, fashion, visual arts, music, digital media, and architecture.
Digital technologies are at the heart of this transformation, not only modernizing creative processes but also preserving Oman’s rich cultural heritage. Positioned at a turning point, the Sultanate is leveraging its creative sector to drive economic diversification and global cultural engagement.
Globally, the creative economy has become a powerhouse—contributing over 6% to the world’s GDP, valued at more than $2.25 trillion annually, and employing over 30 million people. Within the Middle East, the UAE has set a benchmark, with Dubai’s creative and cultural sectors contributing 4.6% to GDP in 2022, generating approximately $5.98 billion and attracting significant foreign investment.
This regional success underscores the opportunity for Oman to chart a similar path. By cultivating a dynamic creative ecosystem anchored in its unique heritage and geographic advantage, Oman can generate meaningful economic returns while enhancing its cultural presence on the global stage.
One major milestone is the launch of the Oman Creative Industries Roadmap, the nation’s first research-based framework for the sector. Early data reveals strong momentum across various creative fields—performing arts lead at 12%, followed by digital arts at 9.6%. Forecasts are equally promising: the Creative Software market is expected to reach $1.85 million by 2025, while revenue from Music Events is projected to hit $2.93 million in 2024.
Vision 2040 aims to increase the digital economy’s share of GDP from around 2% to 10% by 2040—positioning creative industries as a cornerstone of this transformation. By aligning with global digital trends, Oman is poised to diversify its economy while fostering innovation and creating new income streams.
Oman’s creative sector draws deeply from its centuries-old cultural heritage, offering a wellspring of content for modern artistic expression. Growing government support and a favorable policy environment have made it easier for creative entrepreneurs to thrive. Simultaneously, a surge of interest from the younger generation is fueling a steady influx of fresh talent and ideas.
There is also growing global demand for authentic Middle Eastern experiences, opening up export opportunities for Omani creative goods and services. Cultural tourism, in particular, holds high potential—stimulating local demand for creative output while showcasing Oman’s cultural identity to the world. Emerging fields like digital arts, gaming, and eSports are especially promising, resonating with the tech-savvy youth and reflecting their evolving skills and preferences.
The creative economy’s capacity for job creation is substantial. Dubai’s creative sectors now employ over 175,000 people across 47,500 companies—a model Oman could emulate. These roles span various skill levels and educational backgrounds, offering inclusive employment opportunities and helping integrate youth into the national workforce.
One notable initiative is the planned development of a state-of-the-art Film City, backed by multi-million-dollar investment, signaling the government’s commitment to nurturing high-growth creative sub-sectors. Additionally, the ongoing construction of the Oman Cultural Complex represents a strategic investment in the infrastructure necessary to foster talent and promote Omani creativity on the world stage.
To fully unlock this potential, Oman could pursue several targeted strategies: enacting a comprehensive national creative economy policy, expanding funding mechanisms for creative ventures, embedding creative arts into formal education, enhancing digital and physical infrastructure, and promoting Omani creative products in global markets.
Crucially, the convergence of digital technology and traditional creative expression offers new avenues for innovation. From VR experiences at heritage sites to blockchain-based platforms for global art sales, technology can greatly extend the reach and economic impact of Oman’s creative sector. These innovations could even spark the emergence of entirely new industries and exports.
Vision 2040’s focus on nurturing a “Society with Creative Humans” and building an “Economy with a Competitive Structure” provides the foundation for this transformation. By developing niche cultural assets, digital ecosystems, creative clusters, and a thriving tourism interface, Oman has the tools to turn its creative economy into a powerful engine for growth, job creation, and cultural diplomacy.
Source: Oman Daily Observer
