Muscat: The Youth Centre in the Sultanate of Oman has become a key player in the country’s development, aligning with “Oman Vision 2040” by empowering young citizens and unlocking their potential. This initiative gains particular significance as Oman gears up to celebrate Omani Youth Day on 26 October. Serving as a hub for intellectual and practical development, the Centre promotes leadership, responsibility, and innovation among Oman’s youth.
According to Oman News Agency, the Centre’s influence has grown substantially, with 458,606 beneficiaries from 2022 through September 2025. During this period, it delivered 380 training programs and collaborated with 1,227 small and medium enterprises and individual entrepreneurs. In 2025 alone, 66 programs involved over 8,500 young participants, and its co-working spaces have been used by more than 104,800 individuals.
The Centre has emerged as a national platform that integrates thought, creativity, and enterprise, motivating youth to innovate and take initiative. It fosters a community that encourages collaboration and supports developing a knowledge-based economy grounded in creativity and entrepreneurship.
Alia Said Al Shanfari, Executive Director of the Youth Centre, emphasized the importance of integrated national roles and partnerships with both public and private sectors. She noted that genuine youth empowerment necessitates a cohesive system operating with partnership and shared responsibility.
Al Shanfari further stated that the Centre is entering a phase of strategic expansion across all governorates, backed by an integrated development plan valued at approximately RO 14 million. This initiative aims to enhance regional presence and provide comprehensive environments that support innovation and production.
Omar Said Al Sawaei, Director of Financial and Administrative Affairs at the Centre, highlighted key projects, including the Youth Cultural Complex in Sur, South Al Sharqiyah Governorate. This 50,000-square-meter facility, a RO 4 million investment, includes a youth centre and public library and offers additional investment opportunities with total investments exceeding RO 6 million.
The expansion strategy plans to establish new centres in governorates like A’Dakhiliyah in Nizwa, Musandam through the Musandam Centre for Culture and Innovation, and Dhofar in Salalah. More branches will be announced during the Omani Youth Day ceremony on 26 October, each addressing local needs and aspirations.
Financial sustainability underpins these projects, with the Centre developing innovative investment models to ensure long-term operational continuity. This approach aims to maximize its impact on youth empowerment and contribute to sustainable development nationwide.