DEV Community: Demasy

🚀 Oracle Sandbox – Developer Environment

Demasy — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 18:59:51 +0000

Are you tired of spending hours installing Oracle every time you switch machines?

With Oracle Sandbox, you can set up a fully functional Oracle 26ai environment, complete with APEX and ORDS, in under five minutes. There's no manual configuration, no dependency issues, and no platform lock-in-everything works seamlessly.

git clone https://github.com/demasy/oracle-sandbox.git  
cd oracle-sandbox  
docker compose up -d

Your Oracle development environment is now set up and ready to use.

🚀 What is the Oracle Sandbox Environment?

The Oracle Sandbox is a fully containerized, ready-to-use development environment designed to simplify Oracle setup. Created by Ahmed El-Demasy and maintained by Demasy Labs, it provides a complete Oracle Database 26ai Free stack, including APEX, ORDS, and SQLcl, via a straightforward Docker Compose deployment.

Instead of spending hours installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Oracle components, developers can quickly launch a fully integrated, production-like workspace. The environment runs reliably across Windows WSL2, macOS (Intel and Apple Silicon), and Linux, providing a clean, isolated, and repeatable setup for PL/SQL development, APEX applications, REST API testing, and AI-enhanced SQL exploration.

⭐ Why does the Oracle Sandbox project exist?

Setting up Oracle AI Database, APEX, and ORDS traditionally takes hours, requires extensive system knowledge, and often leads to inconsistent results across developer machines. Variations in versions, operating system limitations, and installation challenges slow down onboarding, training, and prototyping, especially on Apple Silicon and older hardware.

The Oracle Sandbox addresses these issues by packaging the entire Oracle stack into pre-configured, containerized images. With Docker as the only requirement, developers can quickly set up a fast, reliable, and reproducible environment that runs uniformly across Windows WSL2, macOS (Intel & ARM), and Linux.

This approach eliminates configuration drift, removes installation problems, enables instant cleanup, and makes it easy to switch between versions. Most importantly, it allows teams and learners to focus on building solutions rather than fighting infrastructure.

Oracle Sandbox aims to make Oracle development straightforward, consistent, and accessible for everyone.

Key Features at a Glance

Oracle 26AI Free, APEX 24.2, ORDS 25.3: all components are pre-configured and ready for immediate use.
SQLcl and SQL*Plus: Includes both modern and classic developer tools.
Docker-based Architecture: Features a clean two-container design for the database and services.
Cross-Platform Support: Compatible with macOS (Intel/ARM), Linux, and Windows with WSL2.
Preconfigured Defaults: All ports, services, and runtime settings are already set up.
Built-in Tools: Offers health checks, APEX installers, and easy-to-use CLI commands.
Developer-Friendly: Perfect for learning, prototyping, workshops, and demonstrations.

Use Cases: From Learning to Prototyping

The Oracle Sandbox supports a wide range of scenarios across development, training, and rapid experimentation. Its consistent, containerized design makes it ideal for:

Isolated Development and Testing
Run independent Oracle environments without affecting your machine. Safely build and test SQL, PL/SQL, ORDS, and APEX.

Feature Exploration and AI Learning
Experiment with Oracle 26c AI features, vector search, and AI-enhanced SQL in a controlled local environment.

Rapid Proof of Concept (POC)
Create prototypes and demos in minutes, without infrastructure requests, waiting, or manual setup.

APEX Application Development
Build, test, and refine APEX applications in a stable, consistent runtime environment before deploying to production.

Training and Education
Deliver workshops and classroom labs with identical setups for all participants, with zero installation issues.

Team Consistency and Collaboration
Ensure every developer uses the same environment to eliminate configuration drift and “works on my machine” problems.

Prerequisites and System Requirements

Hardware:

CPU: Minimum of 2 cores
RAM: At least 4 GB (8 GB recommended)
Disk Space: 12-20 GB of free space

Software:

Docker: Docker Desktop or Docker Engine + Compose v2
Git: Necessary for version control
Web Browser: A modern browser is required for APEX/ORDS

Network:

Internet Access: Required for initial image downloads
Open Ports: Ensure the following ports are open: 1521, 8080, 3000, and 5500.

No need for an Oracle installation, Java, or environment tuning; everything runs within Docker containers.

⭐ Quick Start - 5 Minutes to First Run

Starting with the Oracle Sandbox takes only a few minutes. Everything is containerized and automated; you configure, build, and run.

Clone the Repository and Configure the .env File

git clone https://github.com/demasy/oracle-sandbox.git  
cd oracle-sandbox  
cp .env.example .env
# Edit .env — set strong passwords:
# ENV_DB_PASSWORD, ENV_APEX_ADMIN_PASSWORD, ENV_APEX_ADMIN_EMAIL
docker compose up -d

Open the .env file and update three required variables:

ENV_DB_PASSWORD=YourSecurePassword123!
ENV_APEX_ADMIN_PASSWORD=YourApexPassword123!
ENV_APEX_ADMIN_EMAIL=you@example.com

All other settings are pre-configured and can stay as they are for your initial run.

Build & Start the Environment

Build the container images:

docker compose build --no-cache

Start the whole stack.

docker compose up -d

Check database readiness:

docker logs -f demasylabs-oracle-database

Wait for:

DATABASE IS READY TO USE!

Install APEX & Access the Environment

Install APEX and ORDS (automated script):

docker exec -it demasylabs-oracle-server install-apex

Once completed, open your browser:
ORDS: http://localhost:8080/ords/f?p=4550:1

Login using:

Workspace: INTERNAL
Username: ADMIN
Password: the one you set in .env

You now have a fully functional Oracle Database 26ai environment with APEX and ORDS, ready for development, experimentation, and prototyping.

Oracle Sandbox Architecture

Oracle Sandbox features a straightforward, modular design consisting of two dedicated containers, each optimized for its specific role.

┌───────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│                   Docker Environment                  │
│                                                       │
│  ┌──────────────────┐         ┌──────────────────┐    │
│  │  Management      │         │  Oracle AI       │    │
│  │  Server          │◄────────┤  Database 26ai   │    │
│  │  (Node.js)       │         │  + APEX 24.2     │    │
│  │                  │         │  + ORDS 25.3     │    │
│  │  - Health Check  │         │                  │    │
│  │  - API Endpoints │         │  Ports:          │    │
│  │  - SQLcl Client  │         │  - 1521 (DB)     │    │
│  │                  │         │  - 5500 (EM)     │    │
│  │  Port: 3000      │         │  - 8080 (ORDS)   │    │
│  └──────────────────┘         └──────────────────┘    │
│      192.168.1.20                192.168.1.10         │
└───────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Database Container (Oracle AI Database 26ai Free)

Listener (port 1521)
Enterprise Manager (port 5500)
Persistent storage for all data
Lightweight health checks

This container provides a stable, isolated foundation for all database operations.

Management & Services Container:

ORDS 25.3
APEX 24.2
SQLcl/SQL*Plus
Automation scripts and API endpoints
Exposed on ports 3000 and 8080

This container manages tools, runtime services, and automation while maintaining independence from the database layer.

Result: This architecture achieves a clear separation of concerns, enhancing reliability, maintainability, and flexibility across all platforms.

Built-In Tools & Automation

The sandbox offers a collection of ready-to-use commands, all designed to make your life easier.

sqlcl              # Instant database connection using your .env settings
sqlplus            # Connect with SQL*Plus (AMD64 only)
install-apex       # Install APEX + ORDS (automated)
start-apex         # Start ORDS web server
stop-apex          # Stop ORDS web server
healthcheck        # System diagnostics (DB, ORDS, APEX, network)
install-client     # Reinstall Oracle Client
download-apex      # Download latest APEX/ORDS
commands           # Show all available commands

The scripts automatically detect CPU architecture, load credentials from .env files, provide color-coded logs, and handle errors gracefully. This ensures consistent behavior across macOS, Linux, and Windows WSL2 environments without requiring manual configuration.

Begin Your Oracle Development Journey

Whether you’re learning Oracle 26ai, building APEX applications, experimenting with REST APIs, or teaching others, the Oracle Sandbox offers a fast, modern, and dependable foundation.

👉 Start here: oracle-sandbox on GitHub
Build smarter, prototype faster, explore freely.

🌟 Try It & Contribute

Check out the GitHub repository demasy/oracle-sandbox and give it a try.

I’d love ❤️ to hear your feedback. Please share any bug reports, feature requests, or contributions. Together, we can make Oracle development smoother, faster, and more accessible for everyone.

⚠️ Warning

DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING ENVIRONMENT ONLY
This environment is intended solely for development, testing, evaluation, and educational purposes. It is not secured, hardened, or optimized for production workloads. For production-grade deployments, organizations should consult Oracle's official deployment guidelines and work with Oracle Support or certified Oracle partners to ensure appropriate architecture, security, and compliance.

Disclaimer

This project is an independent development and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or supported by Oracle Corporation. Oracle Corporation owns Oracle Database, Oracle APEX, Oracle ORDS, and related trademarks. Please use Oracle Database Free Edition in accordance with Oracle's license terms.

Unlocking the Oracle ACE Program: From Contribution to Recognition

Demasy — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 20:52:28 +0000

I started contributing to the Oracle communities in 2008, engaging with fellow developers and solving real-world problems on the well-known ArabOUG Forum. It didn’t take long before I felt the need to create something of my own. By 2009, I launched my own technical forum, a dedicated space where developers could exchange ideas, share knowledge, and grow together.

In 2011, I took another step and founded the “Egyptian Programmers” community on Facebook. What began as a simple initiative quickly grew into one of the largest Arabic-speaking tech communities, with over 185,000 members coming together to celebrate coding, collaboration, and ongoing learning.

For me, contribution has never been about titles or applause. It’s always been a mindset, a commitment to making an impact, solving problems, and lifting others along the way.

You’ve already gone over my journey. Now let’s focus on the core: what is the Oracle ACE title, and why should you pursue it? Let’s explore the structure, purpose, and impact of the ACE Program.

Let’s Explore the Oracle ACE Program Together 🚀

What is the Oracle ACE Program?

The Oracle ACE Program ♠️ is a global recognition and advocacy initiative by Oracle that honors individuals who passionately share their knowledge and uplift the Oracle community. Whether you’re blogging, speaking, mentoring, or contributing open-source solutions, this program celebrates your impact.

It’s more than just a title. Being part of the Oracle ACE Program means joining a global network of trusted experts dedicated to helping others, shaping Oracle’s future, and promoting innovation across the ecosystem. The program has three levels: Associate, Pro, and Director. The program supports contributors at every stage of their journey.

If you’re someone who gives back to the community and believes in sharing to grow together, the Oracle ACE Program was made for you.

Next, we’ll see how holding an ACE recognition can enhance your reputation, open opportunities, and increase your influence in the tech industry.

Why Oracle ACE Recognition Transforms Tech Careers

In today’s competitive tech landscape, expertise alone isn’t always enough; visibility and trust also count. That’s precisely what Oracle ACE recognition provides. It doesn’t just recognize your skills; it enhances your influence.

As an Oracle ACE, you’re recognized as a trusted voice in a global community that manages the world’s most critical systems. This recognition opens up new opportunities, including invitations to speak at major Oracle events, direct access to Oracle product teams, and a worldwide network of peers shaping the future of Oracle technology.

The ACE title is more than just a badge. It signals that you’re not only using Oracle technology but also helping others master it, thereby transforming your career path.

Building a Global Community of Tech Champions

The Oracle ACE program isn’t just about personal recognition; it’s about creating collective impact. As an ACE, you become part of a strong, global network of tech leaders who share, teach, support, and innovate together. Whether it’s writing blogs, mentoring peers, or speaking at meetups, you’re helping strengthen the Oracle ecosystem.

It creates a ripple effect: your voice can inspire someone halfway across the world. And the best part? You’re not doing it alone; you’re part of a worldwide tribe of champions driving real change.

We’ve explained why ACE recognition matters; now let’s explore how you can attain it. What steps will take you from associate to director? Let’s walk that path.

Your Oracle ACE Journey: From Associate to Global Director

The Oracle ACE Program is a path of contribution, growth, and recognition in the global Oracle community. It’s created for individuals who share, build, and inspire, highlighting their impact as they advance through three levels.

Oracle ACE Associate
Oracle ACE Pro
Oracle ACE Director

Oracle ACE Associate Your Entry Point

Who it’s for:
Developers, DBAs, and tech professionals who are actively contributing and sharing knowledge within the Oracle community.

Key Highlights:

Usually, 12–18 months of consistent community involvement.
Regularly publishes blog posts, videos, or tutorials on Oracle topics.
Participates in community forums, social media discussions, and user groups.
Gives talks at local meetups or smaller tech events.
Shows strong expertise in at least one Oracle product area.
Builds visibility as a helpful, engaged community member.

Recognition Benefits:

Official Oracle ACE Associate badge.
Increases professional credibility.
Provides opportunities to connect with experienced Oracle professionals.
Encourages growth toward the Pro level.

Oracle ACE Pro Established Expert Recognition

Who it’s for:
Oracle ACE Pro is designed for established contributors who have progressed beyond simply sharing knowledge and are now recognized for their sustained impact and expertise. These professionals have a proven track record of creating technical content, actively engaging with the Oracle community, and demonstrating thought leadership across multiple Oracle technologies.

Key Highlights:

Typically attained after 2–4 years of steady contribution at the Associate level.
Regularly speaks at major Oracle events (Oracle CloudWorld, regional user groups, or conferences).
Publishes articles, white papers, books, or influential technical resources.
Actively mentors others and helps develop the next generation of contributors.
Leads or organizes user groups, events, or meetups.
Recognized as an expert across multiple Oracle areas (e.g., Database, APEX, OCI).
Known as a trusted voice in Oracle forums, social media, and professional circles.

Recognition Benefits:

Increased visibility and credibility within the Oracle ecosystem.
Priority invitations to Oracle-organized events, briefings, and discussions.
Direct access to Oracle product teams for feedback and early insights.
Enhanced personal brand as a leading thought leader in Oracle technologies.

Oracle ACE Director Elite Global Influence

Who it’s for:
The Oracle ACE Director title is bestowed upon a select, elite group of global influencers who possess not only expertise in Oracle technologies but also actively shape Oracle’s ecosystem. They are pioneers leading innovation, mentoring broadly, and offering strategic insights that guide Oracle’s product development and community growth.

Key Highlights:

Over 5–10+ years of consistent, impactful contributions.
Serves as a keynote speaker at major international Oracle events.
Leads transformative initiatives such as open-source projects, educational programs, or large-scale community efforts.
Collaborates directly with Oracle product strategy and development teams.
Mentors emerging ACEs and develops strong contributor pipelines.
Recognized as a global authority with cross-industry influence.

Recognition Benefits:

Form strategic partnerships with Oracle’s internal teams and advisory boards.
Gain access to exclusive briefings, roadmaps, and early previews of Oracle technology.
Achieve global stage visibility, invited to deliver keynotes, participate in panels, and make media appearances.
Use the platform to shape the future of Oracle technology and influence thousands worldwide.

Who Becomes an Oracle ACE?

Oracle ACEs are passionate contributors who lead with knowledge, generosity, and a deep commitment to the Oracle community. They’re developers, architects, DBAs, educators, consultants, and professionals across industries who consistently share their expertise to elevate others.

Whether through blog posts, code, conference talks, mentorship, or organizing user groups, Oracle ACEs actively influence the direction of Oracle technologies by fostering learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Oracle ACE Program: Eligibility Criteria

Must be 18 years of age or older
Cannot be an Oracle employee.
Individuals working in public, government, and healthcare sectors are not eligible.
My Oracle Rewards members are not eligible.
Proficiency and expertise in an Oracle-related area.
Active knowledge sharing with the community.

Two Different Routes to Oracle ACE Recognition:-
The Oracle ACE Program recognizes outstanding contributors in the Oracle community through two specific categories.

Technical ACE
Community ACE

Technical ACE
Recognizes individuals who regularly share technical expertise by:

Writing blog posts, technical articles, books, and whitepapers
Publishing tutorials, videos, webinars, or podcasts
Sharing free tools, code samples, or utilities
Speaking at technical conferences, meetups, or webinars
Actively supporting the community on forums such as Cloud Customer Connect, Stack Overflow, or GitHub
Creating or contributing to Oracle Dev Gym quizzes, LiveLabs, or open-source projects
Promoting Oracle technology through social media or developer platforms

Community ACE
Honors leaders who support others through community-building efforts, such as:

Leading Oracle or Java User Groups
Organizing events, meetups, workshops, hackathons, or training sessions
Publishing content like newsletters or community magazines
Mentoring early-career professionals, students, or underrepresented tech contributors
Strengthening their local or global community through volunteer leadership

Both paths recognize passion, consistency, and a dedication to sharing knowledge that inspires and elevates the broader Oracle ecosystem.

Next up are the core components of your ACE nomination. In the following section, you’ll discover the high-impact contribution areas reviewers prioritize and why they matter.

Oracle ACE Contribution Focus Areas

The Oracle ACE Program recognizes a broad range of community contributions across Oracle’s technology stack. Whether you’re writing technical blogs, speaking at conferences, recording tutorials, contributing to open source, or assisting others in forums, each act of sharing counts. In this section, we examine the key areas of contribution that Oracle values when assessing ACE candidates.

Knowledge Sharing & Content Creation

Publish Technical Content: Share detailed tutorials, blog posts, troubleshooting guides, and code samples. Focus on practical, real-world content that helps others understand and apply Oracle technologies.
Produce Oracle-Focused Media: Create video tutorials, webinars, podcasts, and newsletters that explain Oracle tools, showcase implementation strategies, or explore new features.
Develop Interactive Learning: Contribute to Dev Gym quizzes, LiveLabs, or hands-on labs that promote experiential learning within the Oracle ecosystem.

Speaking & Community Engagement

Speak at Events: Present at conferences, meetups, webinars, and Oracle user groups, covering technical deep-dives and strategic topics.
Organize Community Events: Host or coordinate local meetups, regional summits, or virtual workshops to strengthen Oracle knowledge-sharing networks.
Lead Community Groups: Take active leadership roles in user groups (OUGs, JUGs, Twitter (X), groups, etc.) to mentor others, build connections, and grow local communities.

Technical Innovation & Collaboration

Contribute to Open Source: Build or improve Oracle-related open-source tools, utilities, or frameworks that address common problems or boost adoption.
Engage in Forums: Offer helpful, consistent answers on platforms like Cloud Customer Connect, Stack Overflow, GitHub, or Oracle Communities.

Advocacy, Mentorship & Influence

Promote Oracle on Social Media: Share insights, use cases, and updates on platforms like LinkedIn, X, and YouTube to spark conversations and connect practitioners.
Mentor & Support Others: Guide early-career professionals, students, or underrepresented groups through mentorship or inclusive programs.

Focus Expertise Categories
Oracle ACEs are acknowledged for their expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Analytics and BI
APEX
Cloud
Community Leader
Database
Fusion Apps
GraalVM
Java
Linux
Middleware
MySQL

Oracle ACE Benefits:

What You Actually Get?
When you join the Oracle ACE Program, you’re not just becoming part of a community; you’re entering a world of opportunity, recognition, and support. Whether you’re an Associate, Pro, or Director, each level offers exclusive benefits designed to highlight your expertise, amplify your voice, and help you expand your influence within the global Oracle ecosystem.

Oracle ACE Associate Benefits
As an ACE Associate, you are officially welcomed into the Oracle contributor community. Here’s what you receive:

Official Recognition on Oracle.com
Published Profile in the Oracle ACE Program Directory
Promotion Across Oracle ACE Channels (e.g., X, LinkedIn, Facebook) and in the ACEs in Action Blog
Oracle Certification Exam Credit
Official Oracle ACE Associate Certificate
Access to Exclusive Slack Channels
Invitations to join global and virtual ACE product briefings and community networking events
Access to exclusive community communication channels to connect with fellow ACEs and Oracle product managers

Oracle ACE Pro Benefits

As an Oracle ACE Pro, you are recognized as a more experienced contributor and community leader. At this level, you gain increased support and visibility to help expand your technical reach and influence.

You receive all ACE Associate benefits, plus the following:

Exclusive Oracle ACE Swag Pack
Complimentary pass to Oracle CloudWorld
Oracle Cloud credits
Priority access and visibility

Oracle ACE Director Benefits

As an Oracle ACE Director, you are recognized as a global thought leader and trusted advisor within the Oracle ecosystem. This designation reflects a deep, ongoing partnership with Oracle’s internal teams and a commitment to shaping the future of Oracle technologies through active leadership and feedback.

You receive all Oracle ACE Pro benefits, plus:

Exclusive Executive & Product Team Briefings
Early Access & Testing Opportunities
Travel Support for Global Events
Deeper Strategic Engagement with Oracle

Pro Tip! You’ll gain opportunities, amplify your voice, and connect with product teams, not just receive benefits.

Officially an Oracle ACE ♠️ Associate

I’m honored to share that I’ve been officially recognized as an Oracle ACE ♠️ Associate!

ACE Certificate

Oracle ACE Directory

Oracle ACE - LinkedIn

Oracle ACE - X

Oracle ACE - Facebook

My LinkedIn Profile

You can view my professional profile

The next step is to formalize your case. Here’s how to submit a strong nomination for yourself or someone else.

How to Submit a Nomination

Joining the Oracle ACE Program means becoming part of a global network of professionals who lead by sharing, teaching, and inspiring. If you’ve been actively contributing to the Oracle community through content, events, mentorship, or innovation, this is your opportunity to get recognized and stay connected. Here’s your step-by-step guide to get started:

Would you be ready to apply?

Anyone can submit a nomination for Oracle ACE Associate or Oracle ACE Pro. Yes, even self-nominations are welcome!

Oracle ACE Director nominations, however, follow a more selective process:

Nominations must come from a current Oracle ACE (in good standing) or an Oracle employee.
The nominator must not be from the same company as the nominee.
A minimum of one Oracle Product Manager reference is required.

What to Include in the Nomination?

To ensure your nomination is reviewed thoroughly:

Provide concrete evidence of the nominee’s community contributions over the past 12 to 18 months.

Examples of qualifying contributions include:

Blog posts and technical articles
Conference sessions, webinars, and meetups
Open-source contributions
Community forums or Slack channel leadership
YouTube or podcast series

For each contribution, include a direct link, screenshot, or detailed description.

To nominate yourself or someone else for the Oracle ACE Program, please fill out the official nomination form at the link below.

Nominate an Oracle ACE

Oracle ACE nominations are evaluated by the Oracle ACE Program team and relevant product managers based on the candidate’s area of expertise. The nominator receives an email confirmation after submission and another once the review is finished. Due to the high volume of nominations, the review process can take up to 10 weeks. If the nominee meets the eligibility requirements, they will be notified of their acceptance by email.

Conclusion

🌍 Remember: Every shared insight, answered question, and post that helps someone understand Oracle a little better moves our entire community forward. Your contribution, no matter how small, is a spark that inspires others.

That’s the true spirit of an Oracle ACE ♠️.

References

AI Meets Oracle Database: MCP via SQLcl

Demasy — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:51:52 +0000

The Model Context Protocol (MCP) is transforming how AI works with external systems, offering significant benefits for Oracle developers.

Previously, connecting AI tools like GitHub Copilot to Oracle Database was challenging and required complex custom configurations.

With MCP now integrated into Oracle SQLcl, developers can easily and securely link their AI assistants to Oracle Database from any MCP-supported platform.

This integration reduces time spent on repetitive setup tasks, streamlines database interactions, and enables faster, more intelligent AI-assisted development for the Oracle community. It’s an exciting time to be an Oracle developer!

Introduction

In November 2024, Anthropic introduced the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which quickly gained traction. Before MCP was introduced, large language models (LLMs) could not directly access external data sources or APIs. Developers had to enhance user queries with extra information before sending them to the models.

What makes MCP so popular is how it simplifies adding context to LLMs.

Without this protocol, developers had to create custom solutions for every tool, API, and integration, resulting in significant duplication of work.

This fragmentation led to developers writing unique code for each LLM provider, resulting in inefficiencies throughout the development process. With MCP, the development process is much more streamlined, benefiting all developers.

This article explores the Model Context Protocol (MCP): its definition, functionality, capabilities, and why it represents a transformative technology for AI integration.

What is Model Context Protocol (MCP)?

Imagine having a universal interface or port for AI applications called Model Context Protocol (MCP). It's an open standard designed to help applications, especially AI models, easily connect with different data sources and tools, similar to how a USB-C port allows you to connect various devices.

It uses a client-server setup where AI clients or hosts (such as IDE extensions or AI assistants) communicate with lightweight MCP servers.

These servers provide specific capabilities organized into three key components:

Resources: These are contextual data sources that the AI can access, such as files or query results.
Prompts: These are predefined templates or workflows to guide the AI's tasks.
Tools: These include various AI actions, such as running database queries or sending emails.

MCP uses standardized formats for requests and responses (specifically JSON-RPC 2.0), making it easy for AI models to discover, authenticate, and use external services clearly and consistently.

MCP creates a structured, user-friendly interface between large language models (LLMs) and external resources such as databases, APIs, files, and other data sources. This eliminates the need for custom integrations by handling the connection process automatically.

If you're looking to build agents or complex workflows using LLMs and want to connect your models to various tools and data sources, MCP is the ideal solution.

MCP Server for Oracle Database

In July 2025, Oracle introduced the MCP Server for Oracle Database, developed by the team led by Jeff Smith and Kris Rice. The MCP Server provides MCP support through Oracle SQLcl, enabling safer and more streamlined AI integration with databases across MCP-supported platforms. This represents a significant advancement toward more integrated and efficient database-AI interactions.

Read the announcement: Introducing MCP Server for Oracle Database

Oracle quickly assessed MCP and recognized its strong potential for developers.

By integrating Oracle Database into Oracle core developer tools, we've made Oracle Database seamlessly accessible to developers from any MCP-supported platform, powered by our modern command-line interface, Oracle SQLcl.

Oracle SQLcl (SQL Developer Command Line)
Oracle SQLcl is a user-friendly command-line tool for interacting with the Oracle Database. It pairs perfectly with popular tools like the Oracle SQL Developer extension for Visual Studio Code.

A key feature of SQLcl is its ability to act as an MCP Server, allowing AI assistants to connect securely to your Oracle Database. Plus, it keeps your credentials safe right on your machine!

You can run your SQL and PL/SQL queries and scripts efficiently and securely, streamlining database interactions.

Oracle SQLcl

Oracle SQL Developer Extension for VSCode

MCP for Oracle Database Getting Started!

With MCP support now integrated into SQLcl, it’s very easy to connect AI assistants to the Oracle Database. In the next slides, we’ll take a walkthrough through the setup process and show you MCP in action with Oracle Database. This way, you can start enjoying its powerful features right away!

Architecture Diagram

Prerequisites
Before we dive in, here's a quick reminder to make sure you have:

Oracle Database Instance
Oracle SQLcl (25.2+)
Java Runtime Environment (JDK 17+)
Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
AI Client (Example: GitHub Copilot in VS Code)
Network Access

How to Install and Configure MCP for Oracle Database?

Set Up an Oracle Database Instance
Install the MCP Server (Oracle SQLcl 25.2+)
Create a Low-Privilege Database User
Save the Database Connection in SQLcl
Set up the AI client and integrate it with the LLM, such as GitHub Copilot in Visual Studio Code.

Set Up an Oracle Database Instance
If you don’t have an instance, you can download and run Oracle Database Free for any purpose using the link provided.

Oracle Database Free

You can also try the ready-to-run Docker setup available in my GitHub repository.

Demasy Labs- Oracle Database Docker

To create a connection to your Oracle Database instance, use the SQL Developer Extension.

Install the MCP Server (Oracle SQLcl 25.2+)
Install Oracle SQLcl (SQL Developer Command Line) version 25.2 or higher. The great news is that it already includes the MCP server feature, so you won't need a separate installation for that.

Download Oracle SQLcl version 25.2 or later from the official Oracle website.

Oracle SQLcl

Create a Low-Privilege Database User

To enhance security, creating a dedicated low-privilege user for your MCP connections is a great idea.

This approach helps you avoid using high-privilege accounts for AI access. Instead, create a user with only the minimum permissions required for the specific tasks.

This approach not only keeps your sensitive data safe but also reduces potential security risks and makes it easier to manage your environment.

CREATE USER demasylabs IDENTIFIED BY "Demasy1986";
ALTER USER demasylabs QUOTA 50M ON USERS; -- limit space, if applicable
GRANT CONNECT TO demasylabs;
GRANT CREATE SESSION TO demasylabs;
GRANT SELECT ANY TABLE TO demasylabs;
GRANT CREATE ANY TABLE TO demasylabs;

Save the Database Connection in SQLcl

Open SQLcl and save your connection details for easy access later!

CONNECT -save demasylabs -savepwd demasylabs/Demasy1986@localhost:1521/FREEPDB1

show version

cm list

conn -name "docker-demasylabs"

Set up your AI client GitHub Copilot

Just install and turn on the GitHub Copilot and GitHub Copilot Chat extensions in VS Code. It's very helpful!

Set up your AI client, GitHub Copilot, in VS Code to connect to SQLcl running as an MCP server.

How does MCP work with Oracle Database?

Flow Diagram

How GitHub Copilot in VS Code Works with Oracle Database Through the MCP Server in SQLcl

First, send a natural language prompt in VS Code.
Next, Copilot taps into MCP to find and connect to a saved database session.
Then, the SQLcl MCP Server processes the request by translating the natural language request into SQL and running it.
Finally, the Oracle Database executes the query and sends the results back to Copilot in VS Code.

Demasy Labs

Step#1

Step#2

Step#3

Step#4

Step#5

You have completed the lab. You’ve just seen MCP in action with Oracle Database. This demonstration represents just the beginning of what MCP can do with Oracle Database.

Conclusion

Connecting the MCP Server with Oracle SQLcl is an exciting step toward making our database interactions smoother and more AI-friendly.

By setting up a secure link between popular AI tools like GitHub Copilot in VS Code and Oracle Database, developers can execute queries, automate tasks, and enhance productivity.

We walked you through the setup process: installing SQLcl, creating a dedicated low-privilege user, configuring saved connections, and connecting everything with an AI client.

This setup demonstrates how MCP can transform your development workflow by providing a flexible and secure foundation for innovation.

As AI-enhanced database operations become increasingly prevalent, this approach makes Oracle Database more accessible and efficient for developers.

In Part II, I’ll dive into customizing MCP workflows, agent orchestration, and advanced Oracle SQLcl CLI scenarios.

Your Oracle Database is ready for AI.

References

Demystifying the CEMLI Framework for Oracle Application Customization

Demasy — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 21:20:15 +0000

Greetings, fellow tech enthusiasts! Today, we embark on an exciting adventure into Oracle application customization. Join us as we unveil the enigmatic CEMLI framework - a robust framework that enables organizations to make necessary changes without disrupting the underlying systems.

Oracle CEMLI is an acronym for the five customizations that can be made to an Oracle application: Configuration, Extension, Modification, Localization, and Integration.

What exactly is the CEMLI framework?

The CEMLI framework provides a structured approach to customizing Oracle applications to meet an organization's business requirements. It offers guidelines for managing customizations to the application while maintaining its integrity and stability.

The CEMLI framework provides guidelines for customizing Oracle applications, documenting customizations, and testing before deployment. By following the CEMLI framework, organizations can reduce the risk of system disruptions, make upgrades more effortless, and better align their Oracle applications with business requirements. The framework is designed to provide a standard approach to customizing Oracle applications, enabling organizations to make necessary changes without disrupting the underlying systems.

The CEMLI framework benefits industries with unique business requirements that out-of-the-box Oracle applications may not meet. Every type of customization is distinct and requires a different approach, skill set, and level of effort. The CEMLI framework provides guidelines for managing each customization type while maintaining consistency and repeatability.

Unveiling the Enigmatic CEMLI History: A Journey into its Origins

Oracle Corporation introduced the CEMLI framework in the late 2000s to help organizations manage customizations to their Oracle applications. Before its introduction, customizations to Oracle applications were often made ad hoc, leading to a fragmented and unstable system that was difficult to maintain and upgrade. The CEMLI framework provided guidelines for managing customizations and emphasized the importance of following a structured approach, focusing on the five types of customizations: Configuration, Extension, Modification, Localization, and Integration.

The CEMLI framework was initially defined in Oracle's E-Business Suite and was later expanded to include other Oracle applications, such as PeopleSoft, JD Edwards, and Siebel CRM. Today, the CEMLI framework is widely used by organizations worldwide that use Oracle applications, and it has become a best practice in the industry for managing customizations to enterprise software.

The history of Oracle CEMLI dates back to the early days of Oracle's development of enterprise software applications. The need for customizations to meet specific business needs increasing as the Oracle software suite grew more extensive and complex. To address this need, Oracle introduced the CEMLI framework, which has since become an essential tool in Oracle's application development and customization process.

The CEMLI framework continues to evolve as new technologies emerge and Oracle expands its software offerings. It is a vital tool for organizations that need to customize their Oracle applications to meet their unique business requirements while minimizing the risk of system disruptions and maintaining the integrity of their core applications.

Continuous !