Mrs. Lubna al Wahaibi
Siemens Energy, managing director Oman, Mrs. Lubna al Wahaibi addressed the audience about …..
Speech at OMFA Europe event by Mrs. Lubna Al Wahaibi
Good evening, esteemed colleagues, distinguished guests, and friends.
It is a great honor to join you today at this important gathering of the Oman Manufacturers Association. As the Managing Director of Siemens Energy in Oman, I am proud to represent a company whose legacy has been deeply committed to enabling innovation and collaboration in the energy sector for over a century.
This evening, I would like to explore the opportunities that lie before us—opportunities to elevate Oman’s economy, to expand our reach into global markets, and to embrace the transformative power of innovation and partnerships. I will also reflect on the critical role of women in organizations, the energy transition, and how together, we can achieve remarkable progress.
Gathered here today we are reminded of the critical role that manufacturing plays in the economic development and prosperity of our nation. The manufacturing sector is not only a cornerstone of our economy but also a driving force behind job creation, technological advancement, and sustainable growth. It is through our collective efforts that we can continue to build a resilient and competitive manufacturing industry in Oman.
Part 1: Opportunities in Oman's Economy
Oman is at an inflection point. With Vision 2040 guiding our path, we are focusing on economic diversification, sustainability, and harnessing the nation’s vast resources. The energy sector plays a pivotal role in this transformation.
As we strive to achieve net zero by 2050, Oman’s strategic location, access to global markets, and abundant renewable resources position us to lead the region in green energy production. Our commitment to renewable energy is evident in initiatives like the development of solar and wind projects, which aim to derive 30% of our electricity from renewables by 2030.
One of the key areas where we see tremendous potential is in the adoption of digitalization and automation. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is transforming the way we manufacture goods, and it is imperative that we embrace these changes to stay competitive in the global market. By integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and data analytics, we can optimize production processes, enhance product quality, and reduce operational costs.
Digitalization is not just a buzzword; it is a fundamental shift in how we approach manufacturing. It allows us to create smart factories where machines communicate with each other, where data is collected and analyzed in real-time, and where decisions are made based on actionable insights. This level of connectivity and intelligence can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, productivity, and flexibility. For example, predictive maintenance can help us identify potential issues before they become critical, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment. Similarly, digital twins – virtual replicas of physical assets – can be used to simulate and optimize production processes, leading to better outcomes and reduced waste.
In addition to digitalization, sustainability is at the heart of our vision for the future. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, it is our responsibility to adopt sustainable practices that minimize our environmental footprint.
Sustainability is not just about reducing our impact on the environment; it is also about creating long-term value for our businesses and communities. By adopting sustainable practices, we can reduce our reliance on finite resources, lower our operating costs, and enhance our reputation with customers and stakeholders. For example, energy-efficient technologies can help us reduce our energy consumption and lower our carbon emissions, while renewable energy sources such as solar and wind can provide us with clean, reliable power. Additionally, circular economy principles – which focus on designing out waste and keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible – can help us create more sustainable and resilient supply chains.
Part 2: Export Opportunities to Europe
As Oman becomes a leader in green energy, we must also position ourselves as a global exporter of clean technologies and resources. Europe, with its ambitious energy transition goals, offers an exceptional market for Oman’s green hydrogen and renewable energy exports.
The agreements Oman signed last year to produce 750,000 tons of green hydrogen annually by 2030, with a total investment exceeding $30 billion, exemplify our commitment. These projects lay the groundwork for Oman to become one of the world’s top 10 hydrogen exporters by the end of the decade. Siemens Energy, with its expertise in hydrogen electrolysis and energy infrastructure, is proud to support Oman’s role in the global energy market.
Within the emerging green hydrogen market lies significant potential for industrial development, robust growth, and expansive export opportunities. The advent of green hydrogen can open a gateway to a spectrum of new industries. Envision a green ammonia bunkering and transport hub, sustainable agriculture nurtured by fertilizers produced from green ammonia, green methanol transforming chemical processes, and green steel revolutionizing construction and transport. Each of these advancements holds the promise of creating new jobs, stimulating economic growth, and securing Oman’s position as a leader in sustainable innovation.
The diversification into these green industries provides Oman with a unique opportunity to reshape its economic landscape, tapping into markets that promise longevity and resilience. By investing in these groundbreaking technologies, Oman can significantly reduce its carbon footprint, making a substantial contribution to global climate goals while fostering a circular economy.
As we navigate this exciting journey, it is crucial to remember that the success of these initiatives hinges on collaboration. By forging strategic alliances with global pioneers, harnessing local expertise, and fostering a culture of innovation, we can collectively usher in an era of unprecedented progress and sustainability for Oman and beyond.
Part 3: The Importance of Partnerships
Achieving these ambitious goals requires collaboration. Partnerships across public, private, and academic sectors will be the bedrock of our success. At Siemens Energy, we believe in fostering long-term relationships built on trust and shared purpose.
For example, through our global network of innovation centers, including one in Abu Dhabi, we tailor solutions to meet the unique challenges of regions like Oman. By working closely with stakeholders, we co-create technologies and strategies that align with Oman’s energy vision.
I want to take this opportunity to encourage everyone here to think of partnerships not just as transactions, but as transformative alliances. Together, we can overcome the challenges of decarbonization, invest in cutting-edge infrastructure, and create a sustainable future.
Collaboration can take many forms, from joint research and development projects to public-private partnerships and industry consortia. By working together, we can pool our resources, share risks, and accelerate the development and deployment of new technologies. For example, we can collaborate on pilot projects to test and validate new solutions, or we can establish innovation hubs where startups, researchers, and industry experts can come together to co-create and experiment. Additionally, by engaging with policymakers and regulators, we can help shape the regulatory environment to support innovation and growth.
Furthermore, investing in human capital is essential for the continued success of our industry. We must prioritize the development of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce that is equipped to navigate the complexities of modern manufacturing. This includes providing training and development opportunities, promoting STEM education, and encouraging lifelong learning. At Siemens Energy, we are committed to nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of leaders in the manufacturing sector.
The future of manufacturing will be shaped by the skills and capabilities of our workforce. As technologies evolve and new challenges emerge, we must ensure that our employees have the knowledge and expertise to adapt and thrive. This requires a commitment to continuous learning and development, as well as a focus on attracting and retaining top talent.
Part 4: Women in Leadership and Organizations
No conversation about transformation is complete without recognizing the pivotal role of women. As one of the few women leading an international organization in Oman, I am deeply committed to championing gender diversity in our workplaces.
Diverse teams are not just a moral imperative; they are a business advantage. Studies repeatedly show that organizations with greater diversity are more innovative, resilient, and successful. At Siemens Energy, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where every voice is heard, and every talent is nurtured.
To young Omani women aspiring to leadership, I say this: resilience, continuous learning, and staying true to your vision will take you far. You have the power to shape industries, influence policies, and inspire others.
Part 5: The Role of Innovation in Energy Transition and Economic Growth
As we look to the future, we must remain agile and adaptable in the face of an ever-changing landscape. The challenges we face are significant, but so are the opportunities. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, we can build a resilient and competitive manufacturing sector that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for all Omanis.
Innovation is the heartbeat of progress. In the energy sector, where 40% of the technologies required for net zero are not yet commercial, the need for innovation has never been greater.
Siemens Energy invests over €1 billion annually in research and development. Whether through AI-driven turbine efficiency, advanced hydrogen solutions, or digitalized energy systems, we are committed to leading the way.
For Oman, this means integrating state-of-the-art solutions that enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and create economic value. But innovation is not limited to technology—it’s about cultivating a culture of curiosity and collaboration, empowering the next generation of leaders, and creating opportunities for growth and learning.
Conclusion
In closing, I want to emphasize that Oman’s future is bright. By embracing innovation, fostering partnerships, and empowering all members of our society—especially women—we can build a resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Oman.
I would like to express my gratitude to the Oman Manufacturers Association for organizing this important event and for their unwavering commitment to the advancement of our industry. I am confident that by working together, we can achieve great things and create a prosperous future for Oman.
Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to engaging with you all throughout the day.
About Mrs. Lubna Al Wahaibi
Lubna Al Wahaibi is the Managing Director for Oman at Siemens Energy.
Lubna is a seasoned professional with over 24 years of experience in corporate management, business development, sales, and marketing across the Energy, Oil, and Gas industries. Her expertise lies in driving results and managing business performance while ensuring effective communication with internal and external stakeholders and partners.
Previously, Lubna held the position of General Manager Oman at Air Products, where her contribution to the development and execution of various strategies resulted in business growth and success. Prior to this, Lubna worked at the Oman Institute for Oil and Gas (instOG) for 4 years as Sr. Business Development Manager and acting General Manager, where she played an instrumental role in its image establishment, from the construction phase to successful operations. In addition to this, Lubna has over 10 years of experience at Schlumberger in business development, sales, and account management, along with 6 years of contribution to Abraj Energy Services in Oman in business development for drilling and well services activities.
Lubna holds an MBA from the University of Hull and a degree in Information Technology from the Muscat Technical Industrial College.
About Siemens Energy - A global leader in energy technology.
“The energy transition is the greatest challenge our generation faces. How do we reduce emissions while also increasing energy supply? It is an uphill battle. And there is no silver bullet. But finding solutions has always been in our DNA. For more than 150 years our engineers have been spearheading the electrification of the world. Today we are a team of 100,000 sharing the same passion, vision and values. Our diversity makes us strong and helps us to find answers together with our partners.
Located in 90 countries, Siemens Energy operates across the whole energy landscape. From conventional to renewable power, from grid technology to storage to electrifying complex industrial processes.
Our mission is to support companies and countries with what they need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make energy reliable, affordable, and more sustainable. Let’s energize society.”