Oman Shines at ITEX 2026 in Malaysia, Securing Three Gold Medals
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Oman secured four medals, including three gold and one silver, at the International Invention, Innovation, Technology Competition and Exhibition (ITEX 2026) in Malaysia.
- Omani innovators were recognized among over 1,000 inventions from 17 countries for projects in smart glasses, drone-based aircraft inspection, and advanced biotherapeutics.
- The awards highlight Oman's progress in research and development and the potential of its talents in creating innovative solutions.
The Sultanate of Oman has once again showcased its burgeoning prowess in innovation and research on the international stage. At the prestigious ITEX 2026 Exhibition held in Malaysia, Omani innovators, represented by the Research and Innovation Authority (RIA), clinched an impressive haul of four medals โ three gold and one silver.
They reflect the progress made in the research and development sector in Oman and affirm Omani talents potential to provide innovative solutions that keep pace with the 4th Industrial Revolution.
These accolades are not merely decorative; they represent significant advancements in fields critical to the future. Nahya Nasser Al Hamdani's "smart glasses" offer a tangible way to enhance the independence and safety of the blind and visually impaired. Luqman Sulaiman Al Dhafri's "Drone-Air Lens" project, which earned him a second gold and the award for best invention, demonstrates Oman's commitment to leveraging AI and drone technology for critical infrastructure maintenance like aircraft inspection.
smart glasses, with a mobile application, to help blind and visually impaired people interact safely with their surroundings.
Furthermore, Zaher Salim Al Alawi's "An Advanced Biotherapeutic Platform" targets the pressing issue of chronic wound healing, while Balqees Salim Al Hikmani's smart system for regulating potassium levels addresses a vital need in cardiac care. These achievements, recognized among over a thousand entries from 17 nations, underscore the depth of Omani talent and its capacity to develop solutions that align with the demands of the 4th Industrial Revolution. This success story is a source of national pride, reflecting the Sultanate's strategic investment in its research and development sector and its vision for a future driven by innovation.
Drone-Air Lens project, which specialises in the automated inspection of aircraft using drones and artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies.
Originally published by Times of Oman in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.