In the evolving landscape of Oman’s economic and social development, women leaders are emerging as pivotal architects of progress, empowerment, and innovation. Among these inspiring figures is Dr. Raiya Al-Hajri, a distinguished professional whose trailblazing work embodies the true spirit of women’s empowerment and sustainable economic diversification in Oman. Icons Oman is proud to honor, recognize, and celebrate her significant contributions in reshaping Oman’s research and development ecosystem, particularly in the sphere of local content and value addition.

The Real Face of Women Empowerment in Oman

Dr. Raiya Al-Hajri epitomizes leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing Oman’s vision for economic growth through indigenous capabilities. As a highly skilled woman at the forefront of research and development at the General Secretariat of the Tender Board, she not only breaks traditional gender roles but also challenges the status quo in sectors historically dominated by men. Her story resonates deeply within Oman’s ambitious framework for empowering women entrepreneurs and professionals, enhancing their participation as leaders and decision-makers driving national progress.

Professional Journey & Impact

Current Role:
Dr. Raiya currently holds the eminent position of Head of Research and Development at the General Secretariat of the Tender Board (GSTB), a role she has infused with innovation and strategic oversight since December 2024. Under her stewardship, the R&D division rigorously prepares comprehensive studies and actionable insights on local added value and local content. Her leadership is pivotal in analyzing the dynamism of local enterprises including Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and forging frameworks that elevate the value of Omani goods, services, and job markets.

In her capacity, Dr. Raiya conducts in-depth market and local content analyses to support policymaking and government procurement strategies. She has developed mechanisms to quantify and monitor government spending on local content, ensuring continuous transparency and positive economic impact. Additionally, she champions initiatives that support Omanization, SME growth, and national supply chain strengthening aligned with Oman Vision 2040.

Before ascending to leadership, Dr. Raiya served as a Research and Development Specialist IV – ICV, where she laid the groundwork for the current advancements in local content research and implementation.

Academic Excellence & Expertise

Dr. Raiya’s academic credentials are a testament to her dedication and intellectual rigor. She is pursuing a PhD in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management from Glasgow Caledonian University, with expected completion in July 2025.

Her doctoral research focuses on optimizing supply chains to maximize local participation and value creation. She also holds an MSc in International Operational and Supply Chain Management from the National University of Science and Technology, Oman, which equipped her with cutting-edge skills in project management, financial analysis, and competitive business strategies. Her foundational degree is a BSc in Chemical Engineering from Caledonian College of Engineering, providing her with strong technical expertise and research acumen essential for her role in industrial and economic diversification.

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Raiya has had over eight years of experience as an instructor at the National University of Science and Technology, where she inspired future leaders and professionals with knowledge on supply chain and operational efficiency.

Championing Local Content and Economic Diversification

Recognized as an expert in local content policy and economic diversification, Dr. Raiya has been instrumental in developing and delivering specialized workshops such as “The Mechanism of Applying Local Content in Government Projects” and “The Mechanism of Grading Items in the Isnad System.” These workshops have been presented to numerous Omani ministries, helping embed the principles of local content into government procurement and project management. Her expertise not only advances transparency and fair evaluation but also empowers local suppliers and businesses to compete effectively at national and regional levels.

Moreover, Dr. Raiya’s active participation in forums like the Future Foresight Forum, organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlights her visionary approach. At the forum, she contributed to crafting strategies that nurture pioneering ideas and sustainable growth aligned with Oman’s national development goals.

Icons Oman Honors Excellence and Empowerment

At Icons Oman, we profoundly acknowledge Dr. Raiya Al-Hajri’s exceptional contributions as a symbol of modern Omani womanhood: intelligent, innovative, resilient, and influential. Her story transcends personal professional achievements, becoming a beacon lighting the path for women across Oman who aspire to leadership roles that create tangible impact.

Through our platform, we celebrate her achievements and amplify her dedication to uplifting Omani society through empowerment, research-led economic diversification, and a relentless drive to increase the footprint of local content. Dr. Raiya’s story exemplifies the real, transformative face of women empowerment in Oman where gender equality meets visionary leadership to build a prosperous and inclusive future.

Dr. Raiya Al-Hajri’s ongoing journey is a testament to how dedication, expertise, and leadership can help shape a country’s future. Her role in advancing Oman’s research capacities and embedding local value creation into national projects ensures that women are front and center in crafting policies and innovations that drive sustainable development. She stands as a powerful example that Oman’s women leaders are not only part of the narrative they are its authors.

At Icons Oman, we reiterate our commitment to honor, recognize, and amplify the stories of women leaders like Dr. Raiya, whose work inspires generations and embodies the transformative power of empowerment.

Icons Oman — Celebrating the leaders of today, inspiring the changemakers of tomorrow.