Oman rolls out nationwide employment drive to generate 60,000 jobs in 2026

The Ministry of Labour has unveiled a comprehensive national employment and skills development plan aimed at creating 60,000 job opportunities for Omani citizens during 2026, in line with Royal directives issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.

The plan is built on strategic collaboration between government entities, state-owned enterprises and the private sector, with a focus on accelerating employment while strengthening the long-term competitiveness of the national workforce. According to the ministry, the initiative is underpinned by detailed labour market analysis to ensure job creation is aligned with high-value economic sectors and evolving skills requirements.

Of the total opportunities, 10,000 jobs will be generated within the government sector, including civilian, military and security roles. These positions are intended to enhance the efficiency of public institutions, improve service delivery and address workforce needs in priority developmental sectors.

A further 17,000 opportunities will be delivered through government-supported employment pathways, such as wage support schemes, training linked to employment, and on-the-job training programmes. These initiatives are designed to equip job seekers with practical and professional skills, strengthen employability and support sustainable integration into the labour market.

The private sector, identified as the primary driver of employment and economic growth, will account for the largest share with 33,000 jobs. These roles will be created through partnerships with private sector organisations under the supervision of employment governance committees. 

Opportunities will span key sectors including industry, oil and gas, transport and logistics, tourism, banking, health, education, real estate, information technology, communications, food security, financial services, mining, retail, construction and other sectors supporting economic diversification.

Minister of Labour Dr Mahad bin Said Baowain said the Royal directives reflect a strategic vision focused on building a balanced economy led by skilled Omani talent. He noted that the plan prioritises the creation of quality and sustainable jobs linked to training and professional development, rather than focusing solely on employment numbers.

“The national employment plan is designed to prepare the Omani workforce for current and future labour market demands, particularly in light of economic and technological transformations,” the minister said.

He added that the ministry will implement the plan using clear performance indicators, robust governance mechanisms and regular monitoring to ensure transparency, address challenges and maximise developmental impact.

Dr Baowain also stressed the importance of integrating employment policies with education and training systems, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with academic institutions and the private sector to better align skills with market needs and promote long-term career stability.

Calling for broad engagement with the initiative, he emphasised that employment remains a shared national responsibility, adding that sustainable development depends on coordinated efforts across the entire economic ecosystem.