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The Influence of Sport Sector and Government Policies on the Economic Growth of Sultanate of Oman (Conceptual Framework)

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DOI: 10.18535/sshj.v9i11.2118· Pages: 9489-9505· Vol. 9, No. 11, (2025)· Published: November 30, 2025
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Abstract

The Sultanate of Oman remains heavily dependent on oil revenues, rendering its economy highly vulnerable to external shocks. In line with Oman Vision 2040, diversification efforts have increasingly emphasized the sports sector as a potential contributor to sustainable economic development. This study examines the influence of human capital and infrastructure on the sports sector and investigates the mediating role of government policies in enhancing the sector’s contribution to economic growth. A descriptive–analytical research design was employed, utilizing a purposive sample of 250 respondents representing government officials, sports administrators, academics, and private investors. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews and analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS. The results indicate that both human capital (β = 0.34, p < .001) and infrastructure (β = 0.39, p < .001) exert significant positive effects on the sports sector. Moreover, the sports sector positively influences economic growth (β = 0.29, p < .001), while government policies demonstrate the strongest impact (β = 0.40, p < .001). Mediation analysis confirms that government policies partially mediate the relationship between the sports sector and economic growth, thereby reinforcing their central role in translating sectoral development into measurable economic outcomes. These findings suggest that the sports sector can serve as a strategic pillar of economic diversification in Oman, provided it is supported by robust policy frameworks, sustained investment in human resources, and modern infrastructure. The proposed conceptual framework contributes to the literature on economic diversification and provides policy-relevant insights for achieving long-term financial sustainability.

Keywords

Group discussionsacademic writingpeer feedbackcollaborative learningwriting skills improvementargumentationcoherence

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Author details
Yahya Zahran Mohammed Al Hinai
Institute of Islam Hadhari, University Kebangsan Malaysia
✉ Corresponding Author
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Wan Zulkifli Wan Hassan
Institute of Islam Hadhari, University Kebangsan Malaysia
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Dr Razaleigh Bin Muhamat Kawangit
College of Islamic Studies, University Kebangsan Malaysia
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