University of Nizwa Showcases Research Output and Launches First AI Chair in Oman
The University of Nizwa has marked its annual Research Day by presenting 100 research posters, unveiling more than 20 patents and launching the first Chair of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Oman.
The event took place on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, under the patronage of Oman’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, Dr Saud bin Hamoud bin Ahmed Al Habsi, and in the presence of senior university officials, researchers, academics, and students.
Prof. Ahmed Al Harrasi, Vice-Chancellor for Graduate Studies, Research and External Relations at the University of Nizwa, said the event reflected the university’s long-term commitment to research and innovation across its colleges and research centres.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Prof. Al Harrasi said scientific research should move beyond statistics and rankings to deliver real impact, including technological solutions, healthcare innovation and economic development. He stated that the university has made research a central pillar of its academic strategy since its inception.
According to Prof. Al Harrasi, the University of Nizwa has published more than 4,330 peer-reviewed research papers, receiving over 100,000 citations. He said the university has also registered 57 patents, including 27 in a single year, following a shift towards applied and industrial research, with several developments progressing to the prototype and product stages.
He added that dozens of the university’s researchers have appeared on Stanford University’s list of the world’s top two per cent of most-cited scientists for five consecutive years, contributing to the institution’s strong national and regional academic standing.
During the ceremony, the minister inaugurated the Chair of Artificial Intelligence Applications, described by Prof. Al Harrasi as the first of its kind in Oman. He said the chair aims to support advanced research in artificial intelligence and strengthen its role in higher education and sustainable development.
The minister also launched the sixth national report of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor for 2024–2025, prepared by the University of Nizwa in cooperation with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority. The report analyses entrepreneurial activity in Oman, including business sustainability, innovation and participation trends.
Several research agreements were signed between the University of Nizwa and public and private sector institutions, covering areas such as environmental research, mineral resources, digital transformation, renewable energy and pharmaceutical development.
The Research Day concluded with the minister touring an exhibition featuring 100 research posters and more than 20 patents, alongside the launch of a documentary highlighting wildlife and biodiversity in Dhofar and a new institutional film showcasing the university’s academic and research achievements.
