The Sultanate of Oman's Research Centers: Their Roles in Promoting Decision-Making

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the reality of research centers in Oman and their role in supporting decision-making by examining the types of research and the nature of the services and activities provided by these centers. Methods: To achieve its objectives, the study usedthe qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews as a tool to collect data. The study’s population included all the 21 academic and government’s research centers in the Sultanate of Oman, with the exception of three newly established research centers. Eighteen managers and two department heads were interviewed. Results: The study results showed that majority of the research centers contribute to supporting decision-making according to their varied specialty and concerns by providing several types of research according to their source of funding. Research funded internally by the istitution achieved the highest percentage(100%), followed by contract research funded externally by public and private sectors with (95%). Long-term strategic research funded by His Majesty the Sultan to support scientific research and the strategic research grants programme conducted by the Research Council reached (38%). Lastly, research chairs percentage was (29%). In addition, the study demonstrates the diversity of research fields of the research centers in Oman which focus on future studies and local opinion poll studies. It also showsthat the centers provide several services and activities including: consultation services, joint committees, conferences and seminars, training workshops and community initiatives. Conclusions: The study recommends activating collaboration between local research centers and establishing cooperation networks in order to exchange experiences.