Oman Cybersecurity Market Set to Surge to $214 Million by 2031
MUSCAT – The cybersecurity landscape in Oman is on the cusp of significant transformation, with projections indicating that the market will reach approximately $214.27 million by 2031. This growth is largely attributed to ongoing digital transformation initiatives, stringent data residency requirements, and the proliferation of locally developed cybersecurity solutions. These insights are detailed in the Cybersecurity Market and Investment Report 2026.
Market Growth and Projections
The report, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Oman National CERT, Hadatha Cybersecurity Industry Programme, and Invest Oman, highlights a robust trajectory for the domestic market. It is expected to increase from $135.33 million in 2025 to $146.12 million in 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.97% anticipated through 2031.
This growth reflects Oman’s strategic positioning of cybersecurity as not merely a defensive measure but as a vital economic activity that fosters investment, innovation, job creation, and service exports.
Strategic Initiatives and Leadership
Dr. Ali al Shidhani, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Communications and Information Technology, emphasized that “the Sultanate of Oman is rapidly emerging as a regional leader in cybersecurity.” This development is driven by the strategic mandates outlined in Oman Vision 2040 and the National Digital Economy Programme.
The report also notes that Oman has achieved a Tier 1 global ranking in cybersecurity readiness. The Hadatha programme has been instrumental in transitioning the local industry from a service-oriented model to one increasingly characterized by local innovation and expertise that can be exported.
Industry Expansion and Local Innovation
Since the initiation of the Hadatha programme, the local cybersecurity industry has experienced remarkable growth. The number of local cybersecurity companies surged from 16 in 2020 to 48 by the end of the 2021-2025 programme period. The total number of firms providing cybersecurity services in Oman has reached 56, comprising 34 local and 22 international entities. Furthermore, the number of accredited cybersecurity service providers increased from four in 2021 to 11 by the end of 2025.
The report identifies 17 locally developed cybersecurity products and three local companies that have achieved international accreditation. These figures indicate a maturing ecosystem that is evolving beyond consultancy and managed services into product development and specialized capabilities.
Eng Badar al Salehi, Director-General of Oman National CERT, noted that “Oman has pioneered the region’s first national programme dedicated to cybersecurity industry development,” marking a strategic shift from purely defensive measures to viewing cybersecurity as a core economic enabler.
Human Capital Development
Human capital is a crucial element in the expansion of the cybersecurity sector. The report reveals that 18 academic institutions in Oman offer cybersecurity majors, with 445 students currently enrolled in these programs. Additionally, there are 1,870 job seekers in the cybersecurity field. Over the past five years, the Hadatha programme has supported approximately 13,000 beneficiaries through various training initiatives, events, workshops, and competitions.
Between 2021 and 2025, Hadatha executed 36 approved initiatives, organized 120 events, workshops, and competitions, launched six new startups, developed 36 frameworks and studies, established 32 memorandums of cooperation, and received two international awards. The programme also established three cybersecurity industry centers.
Future Directions and Initiatives
Looking ahead, the next phase of the Hadatha programme, spanning from 2026 to 2030, aims to foster the development of 15 local cybersecurity products, establish eight new local cybersecurity companies, and create a 28% increase in job and income opportunities within the sector. This will be achieved through eight strategic tracks and 22 initiatives focused on capability building, startup launches, product development, investment stimulation, digital trust, partnerships, and performance excellence.
The report indicates a growing demand for managed detection and response, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing services, particularly among large enterprises and ICT companies. It also advocates for private sector partnerships with locally accredited cybersecurity firms to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce operational costs.
Global Context and Opportunities
On a global scale, the cybersecurity market is projected to expand from $301.91 billion in 2025 to $878.48 billion by 2034. This presents Oman with a unique opportunity to capture a larger share of regional demand through its domestic capabilities, investment incentives, and export-ready services.
Source: GCC/oman-cybersecurity-market-to-hit-214mln-nv0l85y7″>www.zawya.com
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