Chinese firms back Oman’s solar, cyber ambitions

Chinese investors have announced major plans to build a large-scale solar manufacturing complex and a regional cybersecurity hub in Oman, signaling growing confidence in the Sultanate’s industrial, digital, and clean-energy agenda under Oman Vision 2040. The projects were unveiled at the Future Fund Oman (FFO) investment showcase, with Orion Solar and XCyber outlining initiatives designed to boost renewable manufacturing, strengthen digital resilience, and create high-skilled jobs.

Orion Solar to build integrated manufacturing complex in Sohar

Orion Solar will establish an integrated solar cell and module facility in Sohar Freezone, marking one of the largest industrial investments announced through the Fund. The project is expected to involve approximately RO 220 million in capital expenditure and deliver an annual output of 6 gigawatts of solar cells and 3 gigawatts of solar panels.

Company representatives said Oman was chosen for one of its most significant overseas expansions due to the country’s clear strategy, commitment to sustainability, and supportive investment climate. They described the facility as a global-scale powerhouse for clean-energy innovation, designed to meet surging regional and international demand for high-efficiency photovoltaic products.

Jobs, technology transfer, and local value creation

The Orion Solar complex is set to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across engineering, operations, logistics, and supply chains. The company also plans extensive collaboration with Omani universities, research institutions, and industrial partners to accelerate skills development and knowledge transfer in renewable technologies.

Beyond employment, the project is expected to drive more than RO 20 million in annual local procurement, helping to anchor a broader ecosystem of component suppliers, service providers, and specialized manufacturers. The investment aligns with national goals to localize advanced manufacturing and boost non-oil exports.

XCyber to establish a regional cybersecurity hub

Cybersecurity firm XCyber announced a strategy to strengthen Oman’s digital defenses through sovereign capabilities, local talent development, and advanced AI-powered security solutions. The company, the international arm of China’s QAX group, recently joined the Oman Investment Authority (OIA) ecosystem through a partnership with EW Partners and Future Fund Oman.

XCyber executives cited Oman’s rapid economic transformation and strong digital ambitions as key reasons for choosing the Sultanate as a regional base. The firm aims to build a world-class security hub that supports government, critical infrastructure, and enterprise clients.

Building national capabilities and talent

XCyber’s roadmap focuses on three pillars:

• Establishing national-level cybersecurity monitoring and threat intelligence capabilities.
• Developing localized cybersecurity products tailored to Oman’s regulatory and operational context.
• Scaling Oman-based cybersecurity services, including managed detection and response.

As part of this plan, the company intends to set up local security operations centers, digital forensics laboratories, and emergency response capabilities. These assets are designed to help Oman manage cyber threats independently while enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure and expanding high-value employment opportunities for Omani professionals.

Strategic impact for Oman’s economy

Together, the Orion Solar and XCyber investments reflect Future Fund Oman’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment into priority sectors, promote industrial localization, and facilitate technology transfer. By coupling clean-energy manufacturing with advanced digital security, Oman is positioning itself as a diversified, knowledge-based economy at the crossroads of energy transition and Industry 4.0.

The solar complex in Sohar is expected to elevate Oman’s role in the global renewable supply chain, while the cybersecurity hub will reinforce the resilience of the Sultanate’s expanding digital infrastructure. Both initiatives are aligned with Oman Vision 2040 goals to nurture innovation, develop talent, and build competitive, future-ready industries.