(Fiber Optics) conference in Muscat emphasizes the importance of developing digital infrastructure to enable AI applications
Participants at the Fiber Optics conference emphasized the importance of developing digital infrastructure to enable artificial intelligence.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Muscat, February 2 (KUNA) – Participants in the 15th Middle East and North Africa Fiber Optic Delivery Council (FODC) conference in Muscat emphasized the importance of developing digital infrastructure to enable digital economy services and artificial intelligence applications. This was highlighted in remarks delivered by experts and specialists at the conference, which began today in the Omani capital with the participation of more than 270 policymakers and technical experts in the fiber optic sector, aiming to showcase the latest innovations in fiber optics, their integration with AI technologies, and their role in accelerating digital transformation across countries.
On his part, Ahmed Al Said, an economics professor and chairman of the Economic Committee at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed that the conference enhances national efforts to develop digital infrastructure and highlights the pivotal role of fiber optic networks in enabling digital transformation. Al Said added that developing digital infrastructure and strengthening the national economy’s readiness for future demands are key pillars supporting innovation, stimulating investment, and improving service efficiency, noting that this aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040. He noted that specialized conferences serve as strategic platforms for exchanging expertise, showcasing global best practices, and building public-private partnerships, thereby enhancing Oman’s regional and international competitiveness in telecommunications, information technology, and digital infrastructure.
From his perspective, Sultan Al Wahabi, CEO of the Oman Broadband Company (a state-owned enterprise), stated that fiber optic networks represent the “backbone” of digital infrastructure, forming the foundation for enabling services, accelerating digital transformation, and supporting Oman’s readiness for AI applications and the digital economy, in line with Oman Vision 2040. Al Wahabi added that the company’s participation as a supporting partner in the conference stems from its role as a national entity leading the implementation of strategic plans for digital infrastructure in Oman.
Ahmed Al Hassani, a member of the Board of Commissioners at the Iraqi Media and Communications Commission, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in telecommunications and IT, noting that the cross-border nature of AI infrastructure requires coordination in regulatory frameworks and joint efforts to establish standards that enable seamless integration while safeguarding national interests.
On his part, Dr. Alaa Mousa, chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Fiber Optic Delivery Council and CEO of Earthlink Iraq, stated that advanced economies continue to solidify their positions as global digital hubs, while emerging markets are rapidly investing in fiber optic infrastructure. Mousa added that fiber optics are a “fundamental pillar” for enabling e-learning, remote healthcare services, and expanding flexible employment opportunities, explaining that this trend promotes digital inclusion, supports economic diversification, and achieves sustainable growth in countries of the region.
The two-day conference includes numerous papers and sessions on the role of policy and regulation in AI infrastructure, building an AI-ready future through fiber optic networks, the cost competitiveness of access networks, fiber-to-the-home deployment, data centers, and the adoption of AI.
On the sidelines of the conference, two accompanying exhibitions will be held, featuring a select group of regional and global technology and solutions providers to showcase the latest fiber-optic deployment technologies, AI-powered network management systems, and next-generation digital infrastructure solutions. The Middle East and North Africa Fiber Optic Delivery Council, headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit organization founded in 2011 that brings together more than 40 industry leaders to promote the use of fiber optics in the region, enhance connectivity quality, improve living standards, and advance environmental sustainability. (End) G.A.
