NCSI Wins GCC Digital Government AwardMuscat, 28 Oct (ONA) — The National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) won the GCC Digital Government Award 2026, in its seventh edition, for its Data Portal project in the Best Open Data Initiative category among GCC states.The award was presented during a ceremony held under the auspices of General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior of the Kingdom of Bahrain and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology, with the participation of representatives of government entities from GCC member states.Dr Khalifa Abdullah bin Hamad Al Barwani, Chief Executive Officer of NCSI, affirmed that winning the GCC Digital Government Award represents a national achievement reflecting the Sultanate of Oman’s progress in digital transformation and the development of its government data ecosystem.He said the achievement also highlights the prominent role of Omani institutions in leading GCC initiatives.He stated that the award was the result of integrated institutional efforts and the contributions of national talent to the development of the Data Portal project, enabling official statistics to be utilised for the benefit of society and the economy. He noted that the recognition underscores the importance of integration and the exchange of expertise among GCC member states.Al Barwani added that the portal reflects NCSI’s commitment to establishing a more open and efficient data environment by providing tools that enable users to access and utilise statistical data easily and flexibly. He emphasised that the award serves as an incentive to continue improving data quality, expanding data availability and adopting modern technological solutions.The Best Open Data Initiative category aims to facilitate access to government data by public and private sector institutions through a national portal, thereby enhancing transparency, improving government performance and supporting scientific research, innovation and the development of services that meet beneficiaries’ expectations.The evaluation criteria include the beneficiaries of open data, services and products developed using such data, as well as data availability, accessibility, timeliness and quality.The GCC Digital Government Award is one of the distinguished initiatives in which government entities from GCC member states participate by showcasing best practices in providing information and completing transactions electronically. The award is based on predetermined criteria aimed at strengthening the digital economy and supporting digital transformation across the GCC region.—Ends/AG