In a significant move to bolster local employment, Oman has introduced sweeping changes to its employment laws, limiting certain professions to Omani citizens only. The Ministry of Labour’s in Oman recent announcement is set to reshape the job landscape, affecting both expat workers and the local workforce.
New Restrictions on Expat Jobs In Oman
The new law, Ministerial Decision No. 501/2024, has expanded the list of roles that are now exclusively reserved for Omani citizens. So, if you’re an expat hoping to break into fields like web design or hotel management, you might be in for a surprise. Among the newly restricted professions are drivers of refrigerated trucks, hotel reception managers, and even lifeguards. It seems Oman is keen to ensure that these critical roles are filled by locals, giving them a firmer foothold in their job market.
Here’s a snapshot of the professions that will soon be off-limits for expats:
Transportation: Truck drivers (food, medical supplies, water)
Hospitality: Hotel reception managers, room service supervisors, travel agents, tourist agents
Marketing & Sales: Marketing specialists, commercial brokers, and sales representatives
Technical Roles: Electrical and mechanical technicians, drilling engineers, quality control managers
Miscellaneous: Lifeguards, web designers, and even forklift drivers
The government plans to extend these restrictions to additional roles such as computer programmers and electronic computer engineers between January 1, 2025, and January 1, 2027.
Also Read: 200,000 Expats Lose Jobs In Oman, Workforce Drops By 14.3 Percent
Investment Restrictions In Oman
But wait, there’s more! Oman is also tightening its grip on foreign investments. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion has updated the list of business activities exclusively reserved for Omani investors. This move intends to foster local entrepreneurship and encourage Omani-run businesses.
The updated rules aim to balance attracting high-quality investments with promoting home-grown enterprises. By doing so, the Omani government hopes to stimulate job creation and encourage its citizens to dive into entrepreneurial ventures.
The new regulations present challenges for expat workers and foreign investors. But, they underscore the country’s commitment to empowering its citizens. Also it fosters a robust, locally driven economy. As these changes take hold, Oman’s workforce and entrepreneurial landscape are set to enter a new phase of growth and opportunity.
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