Ophiolite-oceanic crust makes more than 70 % of the earth. Fragments of ancient oceanic lithosphere (ophiolite) provide access to complete cross-sections of ocean.  Direct information about the oceanic crust is still very limited. The occurrence of the oceanic lithosphere on land presents geoscientists with the opportunity to explore far below the ocean floor providing crucial insights into processes taking place deep in the ocean crust.  Research on ophiolites in the 1980s and 1990s revealed th...

The UNESCO Chair and his team at the Centre of Excellence in Marine Biotechnology (CEMB) in the capacity building and training of young researchers from different institutions in Oman and other countries, such as Qatar, Chile, South Africa, Germany, and China. This was done through a series of in-person and online lectures, webinars, workshops, research visits, and student exchange. The Chair secured research funding of more than 584,000 USD in different fields of marine biotechnology.

The UNESCO Chair for Seismic Studies and Tsunami Hazards aims to enhance scientific research and raise awareness about earthquakes and tsunamis, while also reducing the associated risks. The chair facilitates collaboration among researchers, relevant institutions, local and international communities to exchange knowledge and develop strategies to mitigate the impact of earthquakes and tsunamis.

The Research Chair for Economic Studies is a joint project between Sultan Qaboos University and Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It aims to foster greater understanding of the main economic, business and development issues affecting economic and social development in the Sultanate of Oman. It also aims to support the country in achieving the goals set out in its national development plans and Vision 2040.

The WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) was launched in 2010. It aims to enhance knowledge and understanding of the trading system among academics and policy makers in developing countries through curriculum development, research and outreach activities by universities and research institutions.

Madayn Research Chair for the Development of Industrial Estates and Free zones is a joint project between Sultan Qaboos University and Madayn. Due to the rapid evolution of the business environment that has occurred in the sultanate and the great strides local education institutions have made in exploring issues impacting upon people’s lives, active collaboration between industry and the academia is increasingly vital for the country’s continued social and economic development.