Oman targets 300,000 jobs for nationals by 2030

Oman has launched a National Employment Policy as part of its broader strategy to create 300,000 direct job opportunities for Omani nationals between 2026 and 2030, reinforcing the country's efforts to build a more resilient, future-ready labour market.

The policy was unveiled at the opening of the third edition of the Ministry of Labour's Labour Forum in Salalah, a platform focused on addressing labour market challenges, strengthening employment policies, and preparing the workforce for economic and technological change.

Under the Eleventh Five-Year Development Plan, the government aims to generate an average of 60,000 jobs annually over the next five years, significantly exceeding the 175,000 jobs created during the previous development plan.

According to the Ministry of Labour, the National Employment Policy is designed to improve labour market governance, enhance the effectiveness of employment institutions and programmes, and strengthen the market's ability to recover from economic disruptions. It also seeks to better align workforce supply with labour market demand while ensuring decent and equitable employment opportunities for Omanis.

Speaking at the forum, Nasser bin Salim al Hadhrami, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Labour in Dhofar Governorate, described the policy as "a strategic milestone" for the country.

"The launch of the National Employment Policy represents a strategic milestone, laying the groundwork for a new phase in national talent development and converting it into a driving force for economic growth, thus enhancing the labour market's readiness for future requirements," he said.

The Labour Forum, which runs until August 13, brings together government officials and labour market stakeholders to discuss policy reforms, workforce development, digital transformation, and the future of work.

Fayez bin Ali al Mutairi, Director-General of the Arab Labour Organisation, commended Oman for the progress made in modernising its labour system over the past two years. He highlighted reforms including the implementation of the Labour Law's executive framework, updates to the social protection system, regulations governing new work models, the expansion of insurance protection for GCC nationals working across member states, and the introduction of occupational disease regulations.

Meanwhile, Mohammad bin Hassan al Obaidli, Director-General of the Executive Bureau of the GCC Labour and Social Affairs Ministers, said Gulf countries have made significant strides in labour legislation, employment programmes, digital transformation, and workplace safety. He stressed the need for stronger regional cooperation, shared labour market indicators, and partnerships to anticipate future workforce needs.

Alongside the policy launch, the opening ceremony featured exhibitions highlighting student innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development initiatives, as well as forums on sustainable labour markets, government readiness, and organisational excellence.

The National Employment Policy places human capital at the centre of Oman's development strategy, with a focus on equipping Omanis with skills that match current and future labour market demands while supporting long-term economic growth.