
Oman among leading Arab countries in ITUC Global Rights Index
MUSCAT, JUNE 2
Oman has emerged as one of the leading Arab countries in the ITUC Global Rights Index, published by the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). The country's rating improved from Level 4 to Level 3 — a notable step forward in terms of trade union rights and freedoms. This progress reflects the sustained efforts of the General Federation of Oman Workers (GFOW) at both national and international levels.
According to the Index, the improved rating is the result of a series of reforms to labour legislation and regulatory frameworks. These reforms include enhanced access to justice for workers and the promotion of more effective tripartite dialogue between the government, employers, and workers' representatives. This has been achieved through the establishment of a joint dialogue committee comprising representatives of all three parties, tasked with drafting, reviewing, and amending labour laws and policies.
The reforms introduced in recent years have contributed to fostering constructive dialogue on labour and employment issues and to strengthening mechanisms for the resolution of labour disputes.
The ITUC Global Rights Index is an annual global assessment of trade union rights and human rights in the world of work. It is published by the ITUC as part of the International Labour Conference (ILC), held annually in Geneva, Switzerland. The Index ranks countries on a scale from 1 (best) to 5+ (worst), based on 97 indicators derived from International Labour Organization (ILO) standards. These include restrictions on collective bargaining, the right to strike, freedom of association, trade union membership, violence against trade unionists, and limitations on freedom of expression.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Observer
6 days ago
- Observer
Oman–China strategic cooperation: Anchoring the future through people, partnership, and purpose
As global markets shift and geopolitical dynamics evolve, Oman and the People's Republic of China have steadily forged a partnership that exemplifies strategic foresight, economic complementarity, and cultural affinity. This evolving relationship, grounded in history and propelled by shared ambitions, has grown into one of the most significant bilateral frameworks in the region. Recent developments—most notably the Third Session of the Omani-Chinese Friendship Forum 2025 in Salalah—reaffirm the commitment of both nations to elevate their cooperation into a model for sustainable and diversified development. The transformation of this partnership is visible not only in its diplomatic momentum but also in the depth of its economic engagement. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from China into Oman has grown remarkably, rising from RO 627 million in 2022 to RO 1.1 billion in 2023, and further reaching RO 1.3 billion in 2024. With this upward trajectory, China now ranks fourth among Oman's top FDI source countries. These figures reflect an evolving economic synergy—one that is well-aligned with Oman Vision 2040's aspirations for greater diversification, industrial sophistication, and global integration. Trade dynamics have also advanced in scope and complexity. In 2024, Oman's exports to China totaled RO 9.3 billion, making up 40% of the nation's total exports. Crude oil remained the dominant commodity at RO 9 billion, followed by liquefied natural gas (LNG) at RO 110 million and methanol at RO 44 million. Conversely, Omani imports from China stood at RO 1.8 billion, accounting for 11% of total imports, and included vital infrastructure materials such as oil pipelines. With such numbers, China holds the position of Oman's fourth-largest trade partner among Arab and global nations. Yet beyond trade and investment, the true strength of the Oman–China relationship lies in its people-to-people connectivity and institutional cooperation. Partnerships do not thrive solely on numbers—they are sustained through dialogue, shared values, and collaborative learning. The forum in Salalah, held under the theme 'Chinese Modernisation and Oman Vision 2040: Our Work and Proposals,' was emblematic of this ethos. It brought together business leaders, experts, and institutional stakeholders to explore ways of aligning China's developmental experience with Oman's long-term vision. Importantly, the forum was not merely a ceremonial gathering; it was a platform for business-to-business engagement, project exploration, and cultural understanding. Organisations such as the Oman-China Friendship Association (OCFA) are central to cultivating this connective tissue. Acting as an enabler of cross-sector cooperation, OCFA supports initiatives that span economic, cultural, and humanitarian domains. From business forums and bilateral exhibitions to cultural programs and exchange initiatives, the association ensures that the Oman-China relationship remains vibrant at both grassroots and strategic levels. By championing informal diplomacy and trust-building efforts, OCFA helps convert high-level agreements into practical, people-centered outcomes. The private sector, in particular, stands to benefit immensely from this robust bilateral framework. Chinese investors have shown sustained interest in Oman's Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, particularly those in Duqm, Sohar, and Salalah, where joint ventures in manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy are gaining momentum. Omani firms, in turn, are increasingly exploring opportunities to tap into China's manufacturing capabilities, technology ecosystem, and vast consumer markets. This mutual engagement is not only fostering economic resilience but also expanding the industrial base of the Sultanate. One of the most promising sectors in this regard is manufacturing, which is fast becoming a cornerstone of Oman's economic diversification strategy. Over the past four years, the manufacturing sector has achieved an average growth rate of 7.3%, reaching a value of RO 3.6 billion in 2024, equivalent to 9% of Oman's GDP. Export figures from this sector are equally impressive, totaling RO 6.2 billion. Meanwhile, FDI into manufacturing surged from RO 1.7 billion in 2021 to RO 2.5 billion in 2024, and Chinese capital is expected to further catalyse this momentum. With enhanced collaboration in advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, and technology transfer, the sector is poised for accelerated expansion. This dynamic is further supported by Oman's strategic location at the crossroads of major global trade routes, modern logistics infrastructure, and transparent investment frameworks. As China continues its outward economic engagement—driven by the Belt and Road Initiative—Oman is well-positioned to serve as a critical link between Asia, the Gulf, East Africa, and beyond. The alignment of China's manufacturing strength with Oman's logistics potential presents a compelling value proposition for businesses on both sides. But even as the Oman-China relationship advances on commercial and strategic fronts, it is the human element that will ensure its endurance. Skills development, training programs, academic exchange, and joint innovation hubs are vital for fostering shared competencies. Thousands of Omanis have already participated in China-led capacity-building efforts, and expanding this cooperation to cover new fields—such as fintech, agritech, and AI—can build a knowledge ecosystem that supports long-term national transformation. In a time marked by uncertainty and fragmentation in the global economy, partnerships with high-growth, high-capacity economies like China are not simply desirable—they are essential. China, with a GDP exceeding USD 20 trillion and a population of 1.5 billion, offers not only market access and investment capital, but also valuable developmental experience. Oman, with its unique geographic positioning and clear national vision, offers stability, opportunity, and an open invitation for strategic collaboration. The road ahead calls for more structured cooperation—defined projects, clear timelines, and institutional partnerships that bring the private sector to the forefront. By weaving together economic opportunity with cultural understanding and human development, the Oman–China partnership is steadily laying the foundations for a prosperous, resilient, and forward-facing future.


Observer
02-08-2025
- Observer
Global universities take part in Muscat for JEDEX 2025
MUSCAT, Aug 2 The International Higher Education Exhibition 2025 (JEDEX), which began on July 31, concluded on Saturday, August 2 and was held for students, educators and academic professionals. Organised under the auspices of Dr Rahma bint Ibrahim al Mahrouqiyah, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the exhibition marked a significant moment in Oman's academic calendar, offering a window to the world of educational opportunities. This year's edition of JEDEX featured a dynamic lineup of 70 universities, colleges and academies from within the Sultanate of Oman and beyond, including institutions from Arab, Gulf and Asian countries. The exhibition was further enriched by the participation of Oman's Unified Admission Centre and the Directorate-General of Internal and External Scholarships and Postgraduate Studies under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. The primary objective of JEDEX is to bridge the gap between aspiring students and the institutions that shape their futures. It serves as an open forum where students, parents and education seekers can interact directly with representatives, learn about academic programmes and specialised fields and explore scholarship and admission opportunities. During her tour of the exhibition, Dr Rahma engaged with representatives from various institutions, receiving briefings on new academic programmes, innovative learning platforms and future-focused disciplines designed to meet the changing needs of the job market and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In addition to its role as an academic fair, JEDEX functions as a networking hub, fostering meaningful collaborations between local and international institutions, promoting research exchange and facilitating the development of dual-degree and exchange programmes. The exhibition, which concluded on Saturday, was held in collaboration with Horizon International Exhibitions and drew thousands of visitors, reaffirming Oman's commitment to educational excellence and global partnerships in higher learning. — ONA


Observer
30-07-2025
- Observer
Developing sustainable tourism in Dhofar Governorate
The collective efforts of official institutions and civil society are complementary in providing greater attention and success to the Salalah khareef season events, which attract thousands of citizens and visitors from outside the region. Oman Air plays an important role during these events by increasing its daily flight schedule to Salalah International Airport and supporting institutional activities with relevant programmes. The surge in flight traffic to Salalah Airport presents an opportunity for domestic carriers, including Oman Air and SalamAir, as the Salalah khareef season is one of the most attractive tourist events in the region. The direct air link between Muscat and Salalah makes it easier and more convenient for tourists to travel, not only during the khareef season but year-round. Economically, the season brings numerous benefits: increased tourism revenues for airlines, revitalisation of the hospitality sector, and growth in entertainment-related services. It also generates both temporary and permanent job opportunities in transportation, retail, and tourism services — opportunities that should primarily benefit citizens. Moreover, it supports local commerce and contributes to the development of the region's infrastructure. Socially, khareef activities help strengthen cultural identity and raise awareness of local heritage through events and festivals. They foster engagement between the local community and visitors, encouraging cultural exchange and mutual understanding, while also promoting environmental and heritage preservation. Despite these positives, it is also important to consider the economic and social challenges associated with such activities. The high influx of visitors can strain infrastructure and services, increasing operational costs for government institutions. It may also cause price hikes during the season and contribute to negative environmental impacts. Relevant authorities are mindful of these issues, regularly publishing reports and messages that highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of the Salalah khareef season. Still, the season plays a critical role in stimulating local economic growth and driving infrastructure development through public and private investment, particularly in modernising tourist areas, roads, and health facilities — delivering long-term benefits to the governorate. The season attracts visitors from across the region and beyond, enriching cultural interaction and fostering a broader sense of tolerance and understanding. To ensure sustainable tourism growth in Dhofar throughout the year, it is essential to stimulate continuous air traffic to Salalah Airport and enhance international connectivity. The current scarcity of direct flights to and from international destinations diminishes the governorate's appeal to global travellers. There is a pressing need for more tourism facilities, marketing initiatives, and attractive offers targeting Gulf, Arab, and international markets. This includes reducing the cost of flight operations to Salalah, making it more affordable for a wider range of travellers. Hotel and accommodation prices should also be made more competitive. Furthermore, efforts should focus on launching annual promotional campaigns, negotiating with international and regional airlines to establish direct routes, and improving transport links between the airport and key tourist destinations. Offering incentives and financial facilities — such as reduced airport usage fees — can help attract airlines, along with streamlining travel procedures. By implementing these measures, Salalah Airport can grow into a key travel and tourism hub in the region, boosting year-round demand and contributing to the sustainable development of Dhofar Governorate.