Oman Enforces Temporary Ban On Expat Employment In 13 Sectors In A Bid To Boost Omanisation

The Ministry of Labour in Oman has introduced a six-month suspension on issuing work permits for expatriates in 13 specific professions. This measure aims to boost job opportunities for Omani citizens, as reported by the Times of Oman.

According to the Labour Law issued by Royal Decree No. (53/2023) and the service guidelines under Ministerial Decision No. (180/2022), this decision is made in the interest of promoting local employment. The suspension targets private sector establishments and covers various roles.

The Ministry's efforts are part of a larger framework designed to balance economic needs with social objectives, ensuring that Omani nationals benefit from available job opportunities while maintaining business continuity through strategic exceptions.

The decision underscores the government's commitment to prioritising local employment and fostering a robust economy driven by a skilled domestic workforce.

Professions Affected by the Ban

The ban impacts several professions, particularly within the construction, services, and trade sectors. The affected roles include construction workers, cleaners, loaders, bricklayers, steel fixers, tailors (both women's and men's clothing), electricians (general electrical installations), waiters, painters, chefs, and barbers.

Article 1 of the decision states that trading permits for temporary employment of expat workers in these professions will be suspended for six months. This aims to create more job openings for Omani nationals in these fields.

Conditions for Permit Issuance

Despite the suspension outlined in Article 1, there are exceptions. Permits may still be issued if requests for renewal or transfer of services are submitted from within Oman. This provision ensures that ongoing projects or businesses can continue operating without disruption.

This new regulation will take effect on 1st September 2024. Authorities are tasked with ensuring its implementation across relevant sectors to support the local workforce.

The Ministry's decision reflects a broader strategy to enhance employment rates among Omani nationals by limiting certain job opportunities for expatriates temporarily. This approach is expected to encourage businesses to hire locally and invest in training Omani workers.

By focusing on key sectors like construction and services, the Ministry aims to address unemployment issues and promote sustainable economic growth within Oman. The temporary nature of the ban allows for assessment and adjustment based on its impact on both local employment and business operations.

This initiative aligns with Oman's long-term vision of reducing dependency on foreign labour while building a skilled national workforce capable of meeting market demands.