Other BriefingsOman Labor Authority Prohibits Expat Hiring in 30 Professions, Details Awaited
In an effort to create more job opportunities for Oman citizens in the private sector, the country’s Ministry of Labor (MoL) has announced that 30 new professions will be reserved exclusively for Omanis, prohibiting the hiring of expatriates in these roles. However, the specific professions to be Omanized have not yet been disclosed.
The Ministry of Labor (MoL) has introduced new measures to regulate the labor market and boost employment opportunities for Omani nationals, effective from September.
This decision, shared on the social media platform X, is part of MoL’s broader initiative to regulate the labor market and ensure that Omani nationals can secure suitable employment.
Under the new decision, all state administrative units and government companies are prohibited from contracting with private sector establishments that fail to meet government-set Omanization targets. Private sector companies must obtain an electronic certificate from MoL to confirm their adherence to work standards and Omanization targets.
Additionally, the ministry has designated over 30 new professions exclusively for Omanis, prohibiting non-Omanis from practicing these roles to further prioritize local employment.
All private sector establishments are now required to employ at least one Omani in suitable professions, in accordance with forthcoming regulations from the ministry.
To support these initiatives, MoL has approved a financial package aimed at increasing Omanization rates across various sectors. The ministry will also review work permit fees to encourage compliance, doubling the fees for establishments that do not meet the required targets.
MoL will intensify follow-up and inspection campaigns to ensure compliance with the new labor market regulations.
More details of the decision will be provided before its implementation in September.
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