Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced a series of new measures to regulate the labour market and boost employment opportunities for Omani nationals. These will take effect in September.

As per a decision issued by MoL, all state administrative units and government companies must avoid contracting with private sector establishments that do not adhere to government-set Omanisation targets. Private sector companies must obtain an electronic certificate from MoL, confirming their compliance with work standards and Omanisation targets.

The ministry has added more than 30 new professions to the list of jobs that non-Omanis are prohibited from practising, further prioritising employment for Omani citizens.

All private sector establishments must employ at least one Omani in professions and jobs suitable for them, in line with future regulations to be issued by the ministry.

MoL added that a financial package has been approved to support its initiatives aimed at increasing Omanisation rates in various sectors. Additionally, it will review work permit fee to incentivise compliance with Omanisation rates, doubling it for establishments that fail to meet the required target.

Follow-up and inspection campaigns will be intensified to ensure that private sector establishments comply with the new labour market regulations.

Further details of the decision will be provided before its implementation in September, MoL stated, urging all stakeholders to align with the new regulations to foster a fair and robust labour market.