With Wide Participation from Government, Private, and International Organizations Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology Organizes the Urban Air Mobility Forum
Continuing its transformation towards smart and sustainable transportation systems, the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, in partnership with Ankaa Space and Technologies and GUAMobility, organized the “Urban Air Mobility Forum – Oman 2025.” The event, which lasts for two days, has seen wide participation from governmental and private sectors, academic institutions, and international organizations working in the fields of aviation, space, and advanced technologies.
Forum Objectives
The forum aims to initiate a strategic and professional dialogue on the development of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) system in the Sultanate, as a new component of the integrated transportation system. It seeks to enhance innovation, employment, and improve the quality of life in Omani cities. The forum also aims to lay the foundation for the first national AAM system through the participation of concerned entities and to unify visions regarding priorities for investment, infrastructure, regulation, and the development of a live-test program. It will also explore investment opportunities in this emerging sector and the development of advanced mobility products and services, in addition to shaping the major directions for the national air mobility strategy, including the regulatory, technical, and economic framework. Additionally, the forum aims to strengthen Oman’s bid to host the global AAM Forum of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2026.
Engineer Abdullah bin Ali Al-Busaidi, Director General of Logistics, stated that this event serves as an important national and regional strategic platform, shedding light on one of the most promising and innovative sectors—advanced urban air mobility (AAM). This sector is an essential part of Oman’s vision for smart and sustainable urban transportation, aligning with the goals of Oman Vision 2040 and the 2040 Logistics Strategy.
Specialized Discussion Sessions
Engineer Abdullah bin Ali Al-Busaidi added that the forum includes a series of specialized discussion sessions covering diverse topics, including governance and regulation, urban air mobility infrastructure (Vertiports), low-altitude airspace management, funding and investment models, cybersecurity and aviation safety, multi-use applications for air mobility (passenger transport, cargo, medical services, emergencies), capacity building, and future jobs and vocational training. He clarified that these discussions will undoubtedly result in recommendations and practices for laying the foundations of this promising sector and providing practical insights into how modern technology can be adapted to the unique characteristics of the Omani urban landscape, benefiting society, the economy, and the environment.
Strategies to Enhance Urban Air Mobility
The participation of various national and international entities in this event highlights that the forum’s goal is not only to foster dialogue but also to formulate a multi-sector national strategy for advanced urban air mobility, promote investment, stimulate innovation, and open new horizons for entrepreneurship in this field. Moreover, it aims to develop an integrated, smart, and secure infrastructure that meets future needs, empowers Omani youth, and builds globally competitive national capabilities in aviation, communications, and artificial intelligence.
Engineer Abdullah bin Ali Al-Busaidi emphasized that the forum marks a true starting point for Oman’s future leadership in the field of advanced urban air mobility in the region, driven by national will, fruitful partnerships, and a clear vision. He added that the ideas presented, the dialogues held, and the outcomes produced will serve as the cornerstone for a new phase of innovation and sustainable transformation.
Leading the Regulatory and Legislative Aspects
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), as the regulatory body responsible for managing airspace, will lead the regulatory and legislative efforts related to urban air mobility in coordination with the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, and other concerned entities, to ensure the legal and operational readiness of this new system.
Launching Experimental Zones and Projects
A number of companies, in coordination with the ministry, are planning to launch a national experimental zone (Geozone) dedicated to testing AAM applications and technologies in a safe and realistic environment, aiming to enable research institutions and startups to develop their solutions within the Sultanate. Additionally, the forum will showcase plans for five experimental projects, including urban transport between cities, air cargo and logistics services, medical emergency services, air security and surveillance, and the development of national innovation incubators.
Forum Outcomes
The outcomes and executive recommendations of the forum will be announced during the “Logistics Day” event, scheduled for April 30, 2025, with the participation of government representatives, investors, and international experts, in preparation for the launch of the national execution plan for the AAM sector.