Oman Joins Global AI Cooperation Organization
The Sultanate of Oman has become a founding member of the World AI Cooperation Organization (WAICO), an intergovernmental body established to strengthen international collaboration on artificial intelligence governance and development. The agreement was signed in Shanghai during the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference, where representatives from 29 countries formally launched the organization. Consequently, Oman joins a growing coalition seeking to shape global AI policies through multilateral cooperation.
The new organization will promote collaboration on AI governance, technology development, standards, and capacity building among member states. Moreover, WAICO aims to narrow the global AI capability gap by encouraging knowledge sharing, research partnerships, and responsible AI adoption across participating nations.
Strengthening Oman’s AI Strategy
Oman’s membership aligns with the country’s broader digital transformation agenda and its efforts to expand AI adoption across government and industry. The country has already increased its participation in international AI initiatives through the United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance and other multilateral platforms. Therefore, joining WAICO further strengthens Oman’s role in global discussions on emerging technologies.
The organization adopts a development-focused approach to AI cooperation while supporting sovereign decision-making and international collaboration. In addition, member countries will work together on policy frameworks, technical cooperation, AI infrastructure, and talent development. These initiatives aim to ensure that AI benefits are shared more broadly among participating nations.
New Platform for International AI Governance
WAICO is expected to serve as a permanent international institution dedicated to AI cooperation and governance. Unlike many existing initiatives, it emphasizes inclusive participation and practical collaboration on AI deployment, research, and innovation. As a result, member states can coordinate more closely on regulatory approaches while supporting responsible AI development.
For Oman, the move reinforces its ambition to become a regional leader in digital innovation. Furthermore, participation in the organization provides new opportunities to collaborate with governments, research institutions, and technology partners on AI projects that support economic diversification and sustainable growth. As global demand for AI governance continues to increase, Oman is positioning itself to contribute to international policymaking while accelerating domestic AI capabilities.
