Digital Entrepreneurship and Persons with Disabilities: A Strategic Pathway for Inclusive Economic Growth in Oman

Insights from Dr. Sara Rasheed, Dr. Firas Dahmash, Dr. Husham M. Ahmed, Dr. Oday I. Abdullah, Dr. Firas Mohammed Ibrahim, and Dr. M. N. Mohammed (Gulf University)

Empowering Through Technology: A Vision for Inclusive Innovation

In a world where digital platforms are redefining the boundaries of work and enterprise, the potential for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to participate in the economy has never been greater. A recent qualitative study led by Dr. Sara Rasheed from Gulf University explores the transformative role of digital entrepreneurship as a vehicle for social inclusion and economic self-reliance among PwDs in Oman. The research emphasizes that while the country has made significant strides in digital infrastructure and accessibility, the transition from access to active economic engagement remains incomplete.

The study argues that true empowerment begins not with technology alone, but with a structured, competency-based approach that equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to thrive in the digital marketplace.

Assessing Readiness: The Foundation of Digital and Entrepreneurial Competencies

At the core of Dr. Sara Rasheed’s research is the concept of Digital and Entrepreneurial Competencies (DEC)—a critical combination of technological proficiency, business acumen, and problem-solving skills. The study stresses that before any training initiative is launched, there must be a thorough assessment of an individual’s current DEC level. This foundational step ensures that educational programs are not one-size-fits-all, but are instead tailored to address specific gaps in knowledge, confidence, and practical ability.

As the research highlights, many existing programs fail to account for the diverse needs of different disability types—whether physical, sensory, or cognitive. A standardized evaluation framework can help institutions design more effective, inclusive curricula that move beyond basic digital literacy to foster innovation, financial management, and online marketing skills.

Current Landscape: Progress Amid Persistent Gaps

Oman stands out in the Arab world for its commitment to digital inclusion, having been ranked first in the region for digital access among PwDs. According to the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI), over 42,000 Omani citizens are registered as persons with disabilities, supported by more than 130 specialized associations and institutions. These figures reflect a strong institutional foundation.

However, as Dr. Rasheed’s study reveals, access does not automatically translate into opportunity. Many PwDs remain excluded from entrepreneurial ecosystems due to a lack of targeted training, limited access to startup funding, and societal attitudes that underestimate their capabilities. The research notes that while digital platforms offer flexible, remote work options, most PwDs are not being equipped to leverage these opportunities effectively.

The Transformative Potential of Remote Work and E-Commerce

One of the most promising findings of the study is the role of digital platforms in enabling PwDs to overcome traditional barriers to employment. E-commerce sites, freelancing marketplaces, and social media networks allow individuals to launch businesses from home, sell products globally, and build personal brands without the need for physical mobility.

As the research points out, this shift is particularly impactful for women with disabilities, who often face compounded challenges related to mobility, cultural norms, and access to public spaces. By creating digital livelihoods, PwDs can achieve not only financial independence but also greater social recognition and personal dignity.

A Call for a National Framework for Inclusion

To bridge the gap between access and empowerment, Dr. Sara Rasheed and her colleagues propose the development of a National Digital Entrepreneurship Framework for PwDs. This framework would integrate policy, education, and financial support into a cohesive strategy for inclusion. Key components include the establishment of digital incubators, partnerships with tech companies for skills training, and the introduction of accessible financing models such as Qarḍ Ḥasan (interest-free loans) to support startup ventures.

The researchers also emphasize the need for stronger policy enforcement and public awareness campaigns to shift societal perceptions and promote the value of disability-led innovation.

Learning from Global Best Practices

The study draws valuable insights from international models, such as India’s National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities and the UAE’s Smart Dubai initiative, both of which have successfully integrated accessibility into national digital strategies. These examples demonstrate that systemic change is possible when there is political will, cross-sector collaboration, and sustained investment in human capital.

Future Research and Strategic Recommendations

Looking ahead, the research identifies several areas for further investigation, including the long-term impact of DEC training on income generation, the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing accessibility, and the development of gender-disaggregated data to better understand women’s participation in digital entrepreneurship.

Dr. Rasheed and her team also call for greater visibility of PwD entrepreneurs in media and academic discourse, arguing that storytelling and representation are powerful tools for changing public perception and inspiring future generations.

Conclusion: From Inclusion to Leadership

The study concludes that digital entrepreneurship is not merely an economic opportunity for PwDs—it is a fundamental step toward full societal participation and equality. As Dr. Sara Rasheed and her co-researchers assert, Oman has the infrastructure and vision to lead the region in inclusive digital transformation.

The next phase must focus on action: building an ecosystem where every individual, regardless of ability, can innovate, lead, and contribute to the nation’s economic future. In doing so, Oman can set a global example of how technology, when guided by empathy and equity, can become a true force for social change.