Oman Reserves Private Sector Jobs for Nationals Amid Economic Downturn

Oman has opted for national preference in employment in these times of Covid-19. "A number of professions in the private sector will be reserved for nationals," the Omani Ministry of Labor announced on Twitter. From now on, only Omanis will work in insurance companies, shops or car dealerships. The profession of driver, "regardless of the nature of the vehicle", will also be reserved for them, the ministry specified.

Foreigners, who represent about 40% of Oman’s population (4.5 million inhabitants), are therefore excluded from these various jobs. Their work permits will not be renewed.

Faced with many economic challenges, including the fall in oil prices, Omani leaders had called, in April 2020, for public companies to replace their foreign employees with nationals.