Oman unveils labour market roadmap to drive jobs, growth

Oman has charted a strategic roadmap to cultivate a more adaptable and future-oriented labor market, with a strong emphasis on enhancing governance, refining legislation, and bolstering promising economic sectors. This initiative, adopted at the conclusion of labor market laboratories held during the third edition of the Labour Forum, aims to align with the ambitious goals of Oman Vision 2040.

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The Minister highlighted the importance of developing the arts, entertainment and recreation sector, describing it as one of the promising sectors with significant investment potential.

A key focus of the roadmap is the development of the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector. Dr. Mahad Said Ba’Owain, Minister of Labour, highlighted this sector's significant investment potential and its capacity to contribute to economic diversification and the creation of new employment opportunities. He stressed the need for an integrated regulatory framework that supports the sector's unique activities, improves operational efficiency, and boosts competitiveness in regional and global markets.

The development of labor legislation is being approached through a participatory model, involving government institutions, employers, and workers, with support from the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs. This collaborative method ensures that regulations and ministerial decisions are updated to reflect economic developments while balancing the interests of all stakeholders. The labor market laboratories moved beyond identifying challenges to proposing practical solutions, prioritizing issues, and preparing actionable recommendations with clear timelines and responsible entities.

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He stressed that the growth of the sector requires an integrated regulatory framework that matches the nature of its activities, improves operational efficiency and strengthens competitiveness.

Specific laboratories focused on improving the legal and regulatory framework for the labor market, enhancing transparency, and simplifying procedures. Another laboratory explored employment, investment, and entrepreneurship opportunities within the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector, recognizing the role of creative industries in diversifying income streams and generating high-quality jobs. Recommendations include developing the legislative framework, aligning education and training with emerging sector needs, and supporting investment and entrepreneurship.

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This approach, he noted, helps update regulations and ministerial decisions in line with economic developments while balancing the interests of all production partners.