Introduction
The Centre of Excellence for Satellite Applications – Muscat (CoE-Muscat) serves as a regional hub for the Middle East and North Africa, focusing on training and capacity-building in weather satellite applications. It was established in 2006 with support from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Oman was selected to host one of the global Centres of Excellence in recognition of its technical expertise and sustained commitment to international cooperation in satellite meteorology.
The Centre is operated by the Directorate General of Meteorology under the Civil Aviation Authority of Oman. The CoE-Muscat is also a part of the worldwide network of WMO Satellite Application Training Centres, with strong support from the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT). Beyond its prominent role in providing relevant core courses, the Centre also offers tailored, hands-on local and regional training. It also serves as a regional arena for overcoming challenges, accessing and applying satellite data, and sharing expertise and operational experience.
Our Goals
The strategic goals of the CoE-Muscat are rooted in a commitment to advancing technical expertise and strengthening institutional capacities for satellite data applications. Through hands-on training, regional collaboration, applied research, and knowledge transfer, CoE-Muscat acts as a catalyst for operational excellence across the region.
In alignment with the objectives of WMO, supported by EUMETSAT, and international partners, the CoE-Muscat plays a pivotal role in enhancing weather forecast, early warning systems, and climate studies ultimately, improving the region’s proactive responses to extreme weather events.
Achievements
Over the last two decades, the CoE-Muscat has supported professionals from more than 40 countries through high-quality training programmes, strong national and global partnerships, as well as expanding portfolio of satellite-based applications.
Activities
The CoE-Muscat leads technical upskilling and capability development across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Its flagship initiatives include Satellite Application Course (SAC) alongside a series of annual on-site courses designed to train meteorologists in satellite data utilization. In addition to these sessions, the CoE-Muscat provides online courses and workshops, making advanced training accessible to participants throughout the MENA.
To foster a vibrant community of practice, CoE-Muscat facilitates a dedicated WhatsApp focus group and monthly forums for ongoing dialogue and peer-to-peer support among regional meteorological offices. These initiatives have created a dynamic impact by helping regional meteorological services optimize satellite data applications, with benefits extending to other vital sectors amidst the ongoing climate change.
CoE Contact Information
Ibrahim Al Abdulsalam
Head of Centre of Excellence for Satellite Applications – Muscat
CoE MCT Team
Centre of Excellence for Satellite Applications – Muscat contact point
coemct@caa.gov.om