ADVANCING MARITIME SECURITY AND MARINE BIODIVERSITY PROTECTION UNDER OMAN VISION 2040: THE STRATEGIC ROLE OF MARINE SPATIAL DATA INFRASTRUCTURE (MSDI)

This study aims to evaluate the role of the Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) in enhancing maritime security and protecting underwater ecosystems in the Sultanate of Oman, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving interviews with representatives of government, private, and academic institutions to analyse the challenges and opportunities associated with MSDI implementation. The results revealed that MSDI supports maritime monitoring, biodiversity tracking, and the management of marine protected areas. However, challenges include weak institutional integration, inadequate technological infrastructure, and insufficient legislation. The study emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration and the adoption of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT), to achieve sustainability. Recommendations include establishing a unified national data-sharing platform, updating legal frameworks, raising community awareness, and investing in human and technical capacity building. These efforts are critical for aligning Oman’s maritime and environmental strategies with its Vision 2040 goals.