Oman’s Tahawul Program Aims to Digitize 80% of Government Services by 2025

Launched in 2021 by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MTCIT), Oman’s Tahawul program is a comprehensive government digital transformation initiative. It seeks to modernize public administration, improve service delivery, and build a sustainable knowledge-based economy in line with Oman Vision 2040.

What Is Tahawul?

Tahawul is structured around four strategic pillars:

• Excellence in E-Services: Digitizing and enhancing the quality of government services.

• Efficiency of Digital Solutions and Infrastructure: Modernizing digital infrastructure and promoting shared platforms to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

• Empowering National Capabilities and Managing Digital Change: Building digital competencies within the public sector and managing the transition to digital systems.

• Community Participation and Awareness: Engaging citizens and raising awareness about digital services to ensure widespread adoption.

By the end of November 2024, the program had achieved a 73% digitization rate of government services, up from 53% in 2023.

How It Works

Tahawul operates through various initiatives:

• Digital Transformation Campaigns: The 'Digital Transformation: A New Reality' campaign was launched to highlight the benefits of digital services and encourage their adoption among citizens and businesses. 

• Academic Collaboration: In partnership with the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS), MTCIT introduced a Master of Science program in Digital Transformation and Innovation to equip future leaders with essential skills. 

• International Partnerships: MTCIT signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Microsoft to support the acceleration of digital transformation by providing digitization skilling and coaching activities.

Why It Matters

Tahawul is central to Oman’s efforts to diversify its economy and enhance public sector efficiency. By digitizing government services, the program aims to:

• Improve Service Delivery: Enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of municipal services through digital platforms.

• Promote Economic Growth: Stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship by providing infrastructure and support for tech startups.

• Enhance Quality of Life: Address urban challenges such as traffic congestion and environmental sustainability through data-driven solutions.