| Siham Al Harthi CEO, Siham Development & Investment Siham is currently the Director General of Real Estate Development at the Ministry of Housing since 2004. Her main role is to develop the ministry’s long and short term plans, technical, administrative and financial to promote the level of performance which also includes training and qualifying current staff. Prior to joining the Ministry of Housing, she served as Acting Director of the IT Department at the Ministry of Regional Municipalities, Environment and Water Resources spearheading the Ministry’s IT systems upgrade and programmes from predominantly manual to digital, secured information accuracy and speed to meet the changing needs and to provide a more accurate data for decision-makers. Later in 2004 she was promoted as Director of Planning at Ministry of Regional Municipalities, Environment and Water Resources. Siham also held various senior positions from 1996 – 1999 as Deputy Director of Parks and Gardening, Head of Agricultural Requirements Section and Agricultural Engineer at the Department of Parks and Gardening at MRMEWR. |
Your career spans several decades, with significant contributions to Oman’s development. Can you tell us about how you got started in your career and what motivated you to pursue roles in agriculture, planning, and eventually real estate development?
My journey began with a strong foundation in agronomy, where I developed a deep appreciation for how sustainable practices can transform communities. This evolved into roles in planning and development, where I saw the impact of strategic vision in shaping Oman’s future. Transitioning into real estate was a natural step, as I recognized the sector’s potential to drive economic diversification, create jobs, and support Oman Vision 2040. My motivation has always been to make a tangible difference by building sustainable, innovative projects that reflect our culture and values while meeting global standards.
As the CEO of Siham Development & Investment and a Director at OCCI, how do you balance these roles while ensuring impactful contributions to both the private sector and national development?
Balancing my responsibilities as CEO of Siham Development & Investment and as a Director at OCCI requires clear priorities and a commitment to shared goals. At Siham Development, I focus on driving projects that contribute to Oman’s economic and tourism growth. At OCCI, my role emphasizes advocacy for private-sector interests and fostering collaborations with the government. Both roles align under a single vision: supporting Oman’s development while empowering businesses and individuals to thrive. By building strong teams and leveraging partnerships, I ensure impactful contributions to both spheres.
As a successful female leader in Oman’s real estate and investment sector, what challenges have you faced as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and how did you overcome them?
Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field like real estate required resilience and a clear sense of purpose. Challenges often came in the form of skepticism about my abilities or the limitations society sometimes places on women leaders. I overcame these by focusing on results, staying informed, and building networks of like-minded professionals who value inclusivity. Today, I see these challenges as opportunities to inspire other women to break barriers, embrace leadership roles, and contribute meaningfully to Oman’s progress.
What challenges have you faced in promoting sustainable and innovative real estate projects in Oman, and how do you overcome these obstacles?
Promoting sustainable and innovative real estate projects in Oman often involves navigating regulatory hurdles, securing funding, and shifting mindsets toward long-term value. I address these challenges by fostering dialogue with stakeholders, advocating for policies that support green initiatives, and showcasing the tangible benefits of sustainable development. Collaboration is key—whether it’s working with government entities, private investors, or local communities. My focus remains on aligning projects with Oman Vision 2040 and ensuring they deliver lasting impact.
How does your experience in government, particularly in planning and development, influence your approach to fostering partnerships between the private and public sectors in Oman?
My government experience in planning and development has been instrumental in shaping my approach to partnerships between the private and public sectors. I understand the importance of aligning business goals with national priorities and the value of clear communication between stakeholders. This perspective enables me to advocate for policies that encourage private-sector growth while ensuring public benefits. Whether through real estate projects or broader development initiatives, I strive to create synergies that drive innovation and prosperity.
As a Director at OCCI, what initiatives are you advocating to support and encourage the growth of SMEs in Oman’s real estate and development sector?
At OCCI, I am passionate about creating opportunities for SMEs, especially in the real estate and development sectors. My focus is on enhancing access to funding, providing targeted training programs, and advocating for policies that reduce barriers to entry. Initiatives such as mentorship schemes, networking events, and technology adoption programs help equip SMEs with the tools they need to succeed. By empowering these businesses, we not only grow the sector but also contribute to a diversified and resilient economy.
You have emphasized training and qualifying staff throughout your career. What do you believe is the key to developing a skilled and innovative workforce in Oman’s real estate sector?
Developing a skilled and innovative workforce in real estate starts with education and practical exposure. I believe in nurturing talent by providing opportunities for continuous learning, mentoring, and embracing technology. Encouraging creativity and problem-solving skills among young professionals is also essential. At Siham Development, we prioritize staff training and create an environment where innovation is celebrated. When individuals feel valued and empowered, they contribute their best ideas, driving success across the organization.
Looking back at your extensive career, what legacy do you hope to leave behind in Oman’s development, and what advice would you give to the next generation of leaders?
Reflecting on my career, my hope is to leave a legacy of impactful projects and empowered individuals who continue to build on our nation’s progress. I want to be remembered as someone who championed sustainable development, fostered collaboration, and inspired others to think big while staying true to our values. My advice to the next generation of leaders is to embrace challenges, never stop learning, and always strive to make a difference. Oman’s potential is limitless, and it is up to each of us to unlock it.My aspirations for the future are to continue growing professionally, expand the firm’s reach, and foster opportunities for young legal talent, particularly women, while making a positive impact in the community. To young women aspiring to enter the legal profession, my advice is to be confident, stay committed to learning, and work hard. Seek mentorship, build your network, and stay true to your values. With determination and support, you can overcome challenges and make valuable contributions to both the legal field and the community.