Oman government introduces new ‘licensing system’

Muscat: Oman’s Ministry of Labor has officially announced a mandatory “licensing system” for several professions in the energy and mining sectors on December 7, 2025. According to the ministry, all individuals and institutions working in these sectors will have to obtain specific professional licenses, which will be monitored by the Omani Association for Energy and Mining Skills. The Ministry of Labor says that a list of professions for which licenses have been made mandatory has been released, while all companies and employees have been given a reform period until June 1, 2026. During this time, it will be possible to renew or issue work permits, even if employees have not yet applied for a license. According to the ministry, work permits for these professions after June 1, 2026 The permit can only be issued or renewed if the worker has a formal license from the Sector Skills Unit for Energy and Mining. The government says this move is essential to upskill the country’s workforce, regulate the labor market and maintain professional standards. The required occupations include: HSE advisor, mobile crane operator, forklift operator, excavator operator, welder, mechanical and electrical technicians, driller, dredge man, tool pusher, machine operator, si CNC operator, fitting and assembly technician, structural steel worker and dozens of other technical positions. The ministry directed all institutions to adhere to the stipulated licensing dates so that business activities can continue without disruption. For more information, the ministry’s help center can be contacted on 80077000.