Economy Policy
Oman sets June 2026 deadline for licensing key energy and mining job roles
After 1 June 2026, no work permit will be issued or renewed without a valid licence from the Sector Skills Unit for Energy and Mining, the Labour Ministry said.
The Ministry of Labour, Oman has issued a formal notice outlining the professions in the energy and mining sectors that will now require a licence to practice, as part of a broader effort to regulate the labour market and strengthen national skills.
The announcement, issued on 7 December 2025, also details a correction period for establishments and workers to meet the new requirements.
According to the ministry, the move follows its earlier directive mandating that workers in specified technical roles obtain a licence through the Omani Association for Energy and Mining Skills, represented by the Sector Skills Unit for Energy and Mining.
Beginning January 2026, submitting a licence application issued by the association becomes a core condition for issuing or renewing work permits for these professions.
The ministry said the licensing framework is designed to ensure that workers meet competency standards while helping establishments align with regulated professional requirements in high-risk and technical fields.
A Correction window has been granted to all establishments and workers until 1 June 2026.
During this period:
- Companies are urged to fast-track compliance for their existing workforce.
- Work permits can still be issued or renewed for affected professions, even if workers have not yet applied for the licence.
- After 1 June 2026, no work permit will be issued or renewed without a valid licence from the Sector Skills Unit for Energy and Mining.
The ministry emphasised that timely compliance is essential to avoid operational disruptions and to ensure alignment with labour market regulations.
The notice included a full list of roles that fall under the licensing requirement. These include a wide range of technical, operational, and safety-critical positions as under:
The Ministry of Labour concluded by urging establishments to adhere to the deadlines and reach out for support if needed. For inquiries, companies and workers can contact the ministry’s call centre at 80077000.
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