03-08-2025
12-day Work Forum to tackle Oman's labour market challenges
Salalah – Ministry of Labour's 12-day Work Forum 2025 opened in Salalah on Sunday to address key challenges in the labour market and explore opportunities aligned with national development goals.
Inaugurated by H E Mahad Baawain, Minister of Labour, the forum has brought together over 1,000 participants including international experts, senior officials, business leaders and investors.
The event will feature 33 working papers focused on aligning labour policies with emerging trends, fostering public-private partnerships and promoting sustainable employment models in line with Oman Vision 2040.
Nasser Salim al Hadhrami, Director General of Labour in Dhofar, said the forum highlights Oman's commitment to keeping pace with global labour developments. 'Introduction of the new Labour Law and Social Protection Law reflects our efforts to align with international standards,' he said. 'We are moving towards comprehensive strategies in education, training and employment to support emerging work patterns.'
Mohammed Hassan al Obaidli, Director General of Executive Bureau of GCC Council of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs, warned that rapid economic and technological transformations are reshaping the labour landscape. 'We must build fair and flexible models for skills development, employment and social protection,' he said.
Azar Bayramov, Director General of OIC Labour Centre, said the forum plays a critical role in fostering cooperation. 'Our mission is to be a bridge between governments, workers and employers to ensure decent work for all,' he said, announcing a post-forum training programme on leadership in occupational safety and health for Omani stakeholders.
The forum is being held in collaboration with local and international partners, including Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the General Federation of Oman Workers and Arab Labor Organization.
Activities during the forum will include exhibitions by vocational students, dialogue sessions with employers and H E Baawain, and discussions on government transformation and sustainable leadership. The event will conclude on August 14.
