Labour Ministry Introduces Professional Classification System: What It Means for Industry Sector Businesses in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Labour has announced the launch of a new professional accreditation system aimed at occupational classification and professional licensing within the industrial sector. This initiative is part of broader efforts to regulate the labour market and improve the efficiency of the national workforce.
According to a statement released on January 29, 2026, the Ministry of Labour is implementing this system in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, as well as the Sector Skills Unit for Industry. The system will apply to all establishments operating in Oman and covers a comprehensive list of approved professions designated by the ministry.
Under this new framework, workers must complete the required procedures to obtain professional classification certificates and licenses to practice their respective professions through the official accreditation platform. The introduction of the system will begin in phases starting February 9, 2026.
Full enforcement will commence on May 1, 2026. From this date forward, the Ministry of Labour will not issue or renew work permits for workers who have not secured the necessary professional certificates or licenses for the specified occupations.
The ministry has called upon all relevant establishments to adhere to the new requirements and ensure timely completion of all necessary procedures to facilitate a smooth transition. Registration is available on the official platform.
The occupations subject to professional classification include roles such as factory manager, operations manager, production manager for transformational industries, maintenance manager, analytical chemist, operations analyst, advertising specialist, ceramic artist, operational risk analyst, electronics technician for measuring devices, production mechanical technician, welding mechanical technician, general chemical technician, paint industry technician, factories installation technician, and graphic designer.
Professions requiring professional licensing encompass plastic extruding machines operator, food industry chemist, food industry technician, stone and marble cutting and sawing worker, plastic injection machines operator, plastic bags production line worker, furniture carpenter, and stone and marble lathe operator.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The new professional accreditation and licensing system in Oman’s industrial sector signals a strategic move toward workforce formalization and enhanced skill standards, creating significant opportunities for businesses to improve productivity and compliance. However, companies and workers face risks of operational disruptions if they fail to meet certification deadlines by May 2026—smart investors and entrepreneurs should proactively support employee upskilling and align their hiring practices with the new regulations to stay competitive and compliant.
