Oman Investment Authority strengthens its AI portfolio by investing in Salience Labs, pioneering optical chip technology for faster, more efficient data centres.

Muscat – As part of its strategic commitment to fostering innovation and future technologies, the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), through its Future Generations Fund, has announced a significant investment in Salience Labs, a UK-based company developing next-generation optical chips. This investment is supported through OIA’s ongoing partnerships with Oxford Science Enterprises and Cambridge Innovation Capital, both of which hold active stakes in Salience Labs.

The move aligns with OIA’s strategy to expand its footprint across the AI value chain and explore advanced solutions that enhance global digital infrastructure. Salience Labs is developing cutting-edge optical chips capable of transmitting data using light rather than converting it into electrical signals. This innovation enables faster data transfer, improved data centre performance, accelerated AI model training, and reduced operational costs. The company also provides sophisticated software tools for monitoring power consumption and thermal performance, addressing the growing demands of modern data centres.

Through this investment, OIA aims to strengthen its international partnerships in the AI sector while positioning itself as a key player in global AI value chains. It also supports Oman’s broader goal of localising emerging technologies and advancing digital and AI infrastructure projects.

This initiative complements OIA’s existing AI investment portfolio, which includes:

  • xAI, focusing on foundational AI models.
  • Sense, developing vertical AI applications such as smart energy management solutions for homes.
  • Gradiant/Turing, leveraging AI for data infrastructure and water desalination efficiency.
  • Crusoe Energy, which designs AI-driven data centres powered by renewable energy sources including solar and wind.

Through these strategic investments, OIA is shaping a future where artificial intelligence serves as a cornerstone of Oman’s economic transformation, building a comprehensive ecosystem across software, infrastructure, and advanced technologies. These steps underline Oman’s ambition to become a regional hub for AI innovation while supporting national objectives in economic diversification and sustainable growth.

The Oman Investment Authority manages the Sultanate’s assets locally and globally, spanning sectors including energy, logistics, ICT, public services, financial services, tourism, mining, manufacturing, and aviation. Its investments are geographically diversified across all continents, reflecting its pivotal role in fostering sustainable economic development and positioning Oman as an attractive global investment destination.