The Arab Innovators and Creators Conference commenced on Monday in Muscat, Oman, bringing together a diverse group of innovators, experts, researchers, and entrepreneurs from across the Arab world to discuss ways to transform ideas into products and enhance the regional innovation ecosystem. Kuwait is participating along with other Arab countries in the three-day event, which is organized by Oman’s Research and Innovation Authority in collaboration with the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, the Arab Open University, and coordinated by the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO).
The conference aims to bolster innovation and patent development while fostering sustainable networks of cooperation throughout the Arab region. More than 90 participants from Oman and abroad, including 22 innovators from various Arab countries, are attending. The program features an exhibition of innovations, expert committee evaluations, and interactive sessions focused on networking and connecting innovators with funding and incubation opportunities.
In his opening remarks, Mahmoud Al-Abri, Secretary-General of the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, emphasized the vital role of Arab youth in creating practical solutions to community challenges, stating that a nation's future depends on investing in intellectual capital and converting knowledge into sustainable progress. Mohammad Al-Badi, President of the Arab Open University in Oman, underscored the institution’s dedication to supporting innovation and nurturing talent to generate projects with measurable economic and social benefits.
ALECSO’s Director of Science and Scientific Research, Mohammad Abu Darwish, highlighted innovation as a crucial element of economic competitiveness and a tool for addressing the Arab world’s pressing issues. He noted that the conference theme, “Inspiring Innovation, Prosperous Development,” reflects a vision where creativity evolves into innovation, which when aligned with societal needs, drives development and prosperity.
Monday’s agenda opened with a high-level session titled “Arab Innovation: From Idea to Impact,” focusing on building a regional innovation ecosystem. Presentations explored the transformation of ideas into value through invention, the role of human creativity amid artificial intelligence advancements, future innovation prospects in the Arab world, and a case study on innovation systems in Tunisia.
Additional panels discussed the current state of innovation in Arab countries, barriers to commercializing new ideas, and Oman’s Ministry of Education initiatives designed to support innovation. An interactive session further examined the journey from prototype to market entry, covering topics such as financing, intellectual property rights, incubators, industry partnerships, and marketing strategies.
Kuwait’s delegation includes Dr. Amal Al-Kandari from the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research and Dr. Kawthar Ali from Kuwait University. They are presenting two innovations—one focused on environmental issues and the other on medical advancements—alongside contributions from several young Kuwaiti innovators. The conference continues through Wednesday with ongoing activities aimed at strengthening the Arab innovation landscape.