AGP Executive Report

OPEC+ Energy Watch: OPEC+ agreed to keep November oil output steady, with Brent holding above $100 as Iran-linked risks and Strait of Hormuz disruptions keep markets jittery; the group will review again on Nov 1. Hormuz Shipping Pressure: New tanker attacks near Oman and Iran add to soaring tanker costs and higher war-risk premiums, while crude exports from the region still run above pre-war levels in parts of September. Aviation Security Shock (Oman link): Israel ordered a security review of foreign flights after an Omani co-pilot allegedly tried to crash a flydubai jet into Ben Gurion; reports say he may have shut engines and cut fuel, and Australia is probing his past links. Oman Economy: Oman’s GDP grew 5.1% in Q2, driven by a 14.7% jump in petroleum activity. Local Environment & Tourism: Tourists were fined after disturbing nesting sea turtles at Ras Al Hadd, following viral footage that sparked outrage.

Flydubai Terror Probe: UAE-led investigations into the Sept 30 FZ1073 cockpit attack say Omani co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami likely acted alone, while Israel’s preliminary findings point to a “lone wolf” scenario; Australia has now opened a counter-terrorism probe into his links after reports he studied in Melbourne (2015-2017) and had his visa cancelled in 2019. Aviation Vetting Questions: The incident has reignited scrutiny over how a flagged security risk was allowed to fly, with Israel admitting it relied on airlines for crew checks. Oman Economy: Oman’s real GDP grew 5.1% in Q2 2026, driven by strong petroleum activity (+14.7%) and modest gains in non-petroleum services. Diplomacy: Sultan Haitham is set to visit Kazakhstan on Oct 5-6, with talks expected to cover political dialogue and trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. Markets: Muscat Index rose 1.04% as trading value increased 13.6%. Oil Policy: OPEC+ kept November output targets unchanged, including Oman’s quota, as the group reviews market conditions. Environment: Oman’s authorities removed 400kg of entangled fishing nets near Jabal Al Sawadi in Barka after reports of dead sea turtles.

Flydubai Terror Probe: UAE investigators say Flydubai co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami, an Omani national, attacked the captain with a crash axe and tried to seize controls on the Dubai–Tel Aviv flight, prompting a near-disaster that passengers and crew helped stop; UAE prosecutors have called it a “terrorist attack,” while the UAE and Israel continue questioning how he got through security. Oman Security Vetting Questions: Multiple reports claim Oman had barred him from flying over extremist concerns, raising fresh scrutiny over airline screening and how he was cleared for international routes. Australia Links Under Scrutiny: Australia’s AFP says a Victorian counter-terror team is investigating possible Australian connections, including claims he studied in Australia before leaving in 2017. Regional Tensions, Shipping Disruptions: Amid heightened Gulf tensions, India says five of its citizens were safely rescued after a Kuwait-flagged tanker was hit by a projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, with Oman authorities assisting. Oman in Sports: Oman’s Gulf Cup 27 run ended after a 1-0 loss to the UAE in the semi-final, despite coach Tarik Sektioui saying his side didn’t deserve defeat.

Flydubai Terror Probe: UAE prosecutors say the Omani co-pilot, Hamam al-Hammami, attacked Captain Smit Machchhar with a cockpit crash axe and tried to seize control of the Israel-bound jet in an attempted “terrorist act,” with investigations ongoing into motives and links. Oman Security Vetting Questions: Reports add that al-Hammami was previously removed from Oman Air flight training over extremist concerns, later studying aviation management in the UK, raising questions about how he reached the cockpit. Hero Pilot Praised: UAE leaders visited Machchhar in hospital and praised his courage after passengers and crew subdued the attacker following a rapid plunge in altitude. Strait of Hormuz Tension: Oman helped evacuate five Indian nationals after a Kuwait-flagged tanker, MT Kazimah III, was hit by a projectile near the Strait; no injuries reported. Local Economy: Raysut Industrial City attracted nine new projects worth RO6.55m in H1 2026, supporting industrial expansion and Omanisation.

Flydubai Probe: Omani co-pilot Hamam Al-Hammami, accused of stabbing Captain Smit Machchhar and trying to crash a Dubai–Tel Aviv flight, was reportedly barred from flying in Oman over extremist concerns and is now in UAE custody as investigators examine his background and motive; Israeli officials are expected to question him, while reports also say “Free Palestine” material was found among his belongings. Aviation Security Scrutiny: The incident has triggered fresh questions about how a person flagged by Oman could still be hired by Flydubai, with UAE and Israel calling it a terrorist act and reviewing cockpit and screening safeguards. Maritime Incident Near Oman: A crude oil tanker off Oman’s coast was hit by an unknown projectile, with crew safe and no environmental impact reported, as UKMTO urges ships to boost security and report suspicious activity. Regional Context: The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint, with multiple tanker strikes reported this week. Oman Business: SalamAir appointed Yaqoob Al Kiyumi as its new CEO, effective Oct. 1.

Flydubai Incident Fallout: UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash called the attempted hijacking of a Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight a “dangerous terrorist act,” praising injured Captain Smit Machchhar as a hero while investigations continue into the Omani co-pilot’s motive. Repatriation and Probe: Israel says it will start repatriation flights for passengers stranded in the UAE after landing-permit delays, as officials investigate how the attacker was able to operate the route. Oman Angle in Aviation Security: Israel is probing a “loophole” that may have allowed Omani pilots to fly to Tel Aviv despite restrictions, while reports also claim “Free Palestine” material was found among the co-pilot’s belongings. Regional Security Context: Separate reporting says Iran has been launching frequent drones and missiles at ships near the Strait of Hormuz, keeping shipping risk high even as oil exports recover. Sports (Oman): Oman coach Tarik Sektioui says the team is ready for the Gulf Cup 27 semi-final against the UAE, insisting criticism should target him, not players.

Aviation & Security: Israel says the Omani co-pilot behind the Flydubai cockpit stabbing “underwent Islamist radical indoctrination,” as the UAE takes over the investigation after Saudi Arabia transferred the suspect; passengers and crew helped avert disaster on the Dubai-to-Tel Aviv flight that made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia. Maritime Risk in Oman’s Neighbourhood: A tanker was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, with crew reported safe, while reports also cite a supertanker fire and renewed scrutiny of unauthorized routes. Oman Legal Action: A Ukrainian influencer was referred to Oman’s Public Prosecution after a viral video showed him riding an endangered sea turtle and mishandling hatchlings; authorities say an apology doesn’t erase the wildlife violations. Regional Security Spillover: In the US, a former Department of Energy employee was arrested for allegedly trying to aid Iran-backed Houthis, including buying drone and explosive materials. GCC Housing: GCC Housing Award winners were honoured during Gulf Housing Week, highlighting cross-border housing innovation. Sports: Oman’s Omar Al Ghailani won bronze in AIDA Depth World Championships (CNF) on day two.

Flydubai Crisis: Investigators are still trying to pin down the motive behind an alleged cockpit attack on Flydubai Flight FZ1073 from Dubai to Tel Aviv, after an Omani co-pilot stabbed Indian captain Smit Machchhar and the aircraft plunged sharply before passengers and crew helped subdue the attacker and land safely in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia; the UAE has launched a judicial probe into whether there was any terrorist intent, prior planning or outside direction, while Israel is pressing for extradition and says the suspect underwent radical Islamist indoctrination. Aviation Security Questions: Reports and passenger accounts have reignited debate over cockpit screening and how an Israel-bound flight was staffed, with Israel also citing concerns raised months earlier about security at UAE airports. Oman Snapshot: Oman’s elderly population reached about 256,469 in 2025, with Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah and North Al Batinah holding more than half, and health data showing respiratory and circulatory diseases among key causes. Regional Stability: Commentary highlights the need for the Muscat Process to keep Gulf, Iran and Iraq dialogue open as security and economic risks feed each other during crises.

Aviation Security Shock: A flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv (FZ1073) was forced to land in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after an alleged cockpit stabbing and attempted crash by an Omani co-pilot; passengers and crew stormed the cockpit, subdued the attacker, and a second crew safely took over, while Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu praised Indian captain Smit Machchhar as a “true hero” and said Israel will join the investigation with UAE coordination. Oman in Gulf Cup: Oman reached the Arabian Gulf Cup 27 semi-finals after a rare draw of lots separated them from Iraq, following dramatic group-stage results that left both teams level on key tie-breaks. Regional Diplomacy & Hormuz: US President Donald Trump claimed Iran is “virtually destroyed” and said the US has “virtually total control” of the Strait of Hormuz, as LNG and shipping patterns remain in focus. Oman Business & Markets: Muscat Stock Exchange’s MSX 30 index closed 0.16% lower, while Oman Air boosted Salalah capacity by 16% for the Khareef season, carrying 270,000 passengers. Weather Watch (UAE): The UAE forecast warns of dust from winds up to 40km/h and fog risk overnight into Thursday.

Aviation Security: A Flydubai Dubai–Tel Aviv Boeing 737 (FZ1073) diverted to Saudi Arabia after a violent cockpit fight, with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu saying one pilot stabbed the other and intended to crash the plane; passengers helped subdue the attacker, and Netanyahu says the suspect has been arrested and is being questioned by Saudi authorities. Oman Link: Israeli reports cite the suspected attacker as Omani, while Israel’s transport and security bodies opened probes after emergency signals were sent. Environment & Law: Oman’s Environment Authority says it took legal action after a Ukrainian influencer posted viral footage of sitting on a sea turtle at Ras Al Hadd; the influencer later apologized. Agriculture: Oman registered the “Razat” banana variety with UPOV after technical testing. Healthcare: Khoula Hospital began using Vagus Nerve Stimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy. Economy & Trade: Oman and Uzbekistan discussed expanding bilateral economic cooperation. Sports: Oman reached Gulf Cup 27 semi-finals after a draw of lots against Iraq. Public Health Stats: Oman’s number of health institutions rose 3.4% in 2025, reaching 2,464.

Wildlife Protection: Oman’s Environment Authority has taken legal action after a Ukrainian influencer was filmed sitting on a nesting sea turtle at Ras Al Jinz/Ras Al Hadd, sparking global backlash and accusations of “rotten tourism.” Gulf Cup Drama: Oman booked a Gulf Cup 27 semi-final spot after a 3-1 comeback win over Kuwait, then qualified via a draw with Iraq after both finished level on points, goals and fair play; Saudi Arabia meanwhile beat Iraq 2-0 to top Group A. Aviation & Sanctions: Iraqi Airways says it will resume flights to Iran in October after receiving a US sanctions waiver for Najaf–Iran routes. Maritime Security: Somali pirates killed three Pakistani sailors during a rescue operation involving the MT Honour 25, while survivors provided accounts of the hijacking and firefight. Sports Calendar: Oman’s rescheduled new Oman International Baja is set for Dec 17-19, 2026 in Bidiyah, after Gulf-region hostilities delayed the original March date. Weather Watch: Oman’s National Centre of Meteorology expects clearer skies turning partly cloudy, with temperatures easing and humidity/fog possible.

Green Hydrogen & Energy Ties: Oman plans to export green hydrogen by 2030 and is pushing deeper renewable-energy cooperation with India, including work on green fuels and aviation cleaner fuels. Maritime Security: A merchant vessel caught fire after being hit while transiting the Strait of Hormuz near Oman’s Khasab; crew condition and cargo details weren’t released. Innovation Push: Oman climbed 8 places to 47th in the Global Innovation Index 2026, with gains in innovation inputs and several sub-indicators ranking in the world’s top 40. Local Development: Sultan Haitham City is moving closer to first occupancy after commissioning three electrical substations (160MVA) to power residential areas, schools, street lighting and cooling networks. Education & Research: The Royal Army of Oman and Dhofar University signed a cooperation programme to build academic and scholarly research frameworks. Culture & Heritage: Omani researchers won first place at the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage for work on the Sidr tree, linking scientific and traditional knowledge. Sports & Community: Oman’s SailFree team is preparing for the World Sailing Inclusion Championship in Portugal, while Oman’s Muscat Governorate council reviewed health services and preventive community programmes.

Hormuz Tensions & Shipping: Iran again warned vessel charterers to follow its restrictions, threatening to add non-compliant ships to a growing list, as Trump rejected Tehran’s latest reopening terms and oil flows stayed in focus. Oil Exports & Markets: Middle East crude exports rebounded to 12.8mn bpd in September, the highest since the war began, while oil prices jumped after Trump dismissed the Hormuz offer—yet regional exports still lag pre-war levels. Oman Angle—Aviation Sanctions: US sanctions are sharply cutting Iran’s international flights; flights to Oman were suspended or restricted, while Iraq later resumed Najaf–Iran routes. Oman Local & Environment: Sultan Qaboos University research highlighted a simpler soil test to measure DNA-bound phosphorus, helping explain how microbes feed plants. Regional Weather: Saudi Arabia forecast rain and thunderstorms across parts of Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Mecca and Medina, with Oman expecting clearer skies Tuesday–Wednesday but possible isolated mountain thundershowers and late-night fog. Sports (Gulf Cup): Oman face Kuwait in the final group round, needing a win to keep semifinal hopes alive.

Dhofar Culture Abroad: Omani designer Asfar Hamran Khamis brought the “Leetchi Dhofar” brand to Malaga Fashion Week, presenting the “Al-Ahd” collection inspired by Dhofari heritage through contemporary designs. Local Community & Skills: RAM concluded its Executive Programme in Local Administration, training 25 leaders to support governorate empowerment and Vision 2040 goals. Statistics With AI: Oman showcased at an Arab League statistics meeting how it uses AI for the Household Income and Expenditure Survey and plans for a Digital Economy Survey. Business & Trade: Oman’s Trade Office in the US met Oman’s Economy Minister to boost exports and investment; OCCI’s elections committee also began preparations for its electoral system. Environment & Law: Oman is pursuing action after a Ukrainian influencer was filmed riding a sea turtle at Ras Al Hadd, sparking public backlash. Health & Safety: A Kerala man was found dead in his Oman residence shortly after returning from holiday, with authorities investigating. Energy & Region: Talks continue via mediators on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while oil exports from the Middle East hit the highest levels since February.

Gulf Cup shock in Jeddah: Bahrain crashed out of Gulf Cup 27 after a 0-3 loss to the UAE, ending their title defence with two straight defeats; Qatar also edged Yemen 1-0 with Yusuf Abdurisag scoring in the 64th minute, setting up a tight final group day. Asian Games spotlight for Oman: Qatar’s Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan beat Oman 2-0 in beach volleyball to reach the Round of 16. Oman’s VAT update: Oman added 807 food items, 677 medical items and 62 veterinary products to the zero-VAT list from Oct 1, extending relief for households and essential services. Economy & data: NCSI is running its 51st Consumer Confidence Survey for Q3 2026 (Sept 27-30) to gauge Omanis’ views on prices, jobs and cost of living. Energy & region: Reuters reports Middle East crude exports rebounded in September, with Hormuz flows improving as Saudi and UAE shipments rise. Diplomacy: Oman reiterated its stance for peaceful, consensual dispute resolution at UNGA 81, urging restraint amid regional tensions.

Strait of Hormuz Tensions: US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days and resume nuclear talks, saying Tehran is “losing so badly” and lacks money as Washington keeps economic pressure on Iran. Oman’s Diplomacy: Oman’s FM reiterated at the UN General Assembly that Muscat will keep safeguarding navigation through the strait and urged Iran and the US to pursue a lasting political settlement. Economic Pressure Watch: US Treasury chief Scott Bessent said “Operation Economic Outcast” is delivering results, citing curbs affecting Iranian airlines and banking, including actions by Türkiye and Oman. Tourism Impact: Oman’s 3–5 star hotels saw revenue drop 11% to about RO156.5mn by end-August as occupancy fell to 46.5% and guest numbers declined. Local Development: Local content in Oman’s road projects topped OMR200mn in H1 2026, with local firms and SMEs taking a larger share. Labour Safety: The Labour Ministry wrapped up its “Safe Summer 2026” campaign, approving about 79% of midday work permit applications after checks. Food Security Leadership: Oman launched a National Leadership Development Programme in the Food Security Sector, targeting 35 leaders across public and private sectors. VAT Update: Oman’s Tax Authority set new zero-percent VAT rules from 1 October 2026 for basic food commodities, medicines and medical equipment. Human Trafficking: Dhofar hosted the month-long “Aman 2” campaign to boost awareness and reporting of trafficking.