Khareef Business Boosted: Over 600 New Work Permits Enhance Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in Oman
SALALAH, AUGUST 1 — The Ministry of Labour, through its Dhofar Directorate, has issued over 600 temporary work permits since the commencement of the Khareef Dhofar Season 2025. This initiative aims to enhance commercial activity and support entrepreneurs during the peak tourism period in the governorate.
According to the Director General of the Ministry’s Labour Directorate in Dhofar, these permits—offered at no cost—facilitate the hiring of expatriate workers for jobs that are not exclusive to Omanis. These positions often attract little interest from local citizens. The initiative is designed to regulate seasonal employment, addressing the increased demand from small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly in sectors such as food services, logistics, and event management.
The official noted that there has been significant interest from small and seasonal enterprise owners, as the permits provide a legal and adaptable means to recruit workforce support without violating labour regulations. Permit holders are also required to employ and oversee Omani staff, ensuring that nationals remain involved in seasonal business operations.
This initiative underscores the Ministry’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and reducing bureaucratic hurdles by waiving fees and simplifying the application and approval processes. It also ensures compliance with labor laws and protections.
These efforts align with broader government strategies to promote local and seasonal investment in Dhofar, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors every monsoon season. The measures are anticipated to enhance the quality and scale of tourism and retail services while maintaining a well-regulated business environment.
As tourism activities continue to rise across Dhofar’s wilayats, the demand for temporary permits is expected to increase in the coming weeks, bolstering private sector participation and supporting local economic momentum through formal seasonal employment channels.
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The issuance of over 600 temporary work permits during the Khareef Dhofar Season signals significant opportunities for businesses in Oman, particularly in tourism-related sectors like food services and logistics. This initiative not only addresses the workforce demand but also encourages entrepreneurs to scale operations while ensuring local workforce engagement.
Smart investors should seize the moment to leverage this legal framework for hiring and participate actively in the growing tourism and retail landscape, while remaining compliant with new regulations to capitalize on the influx of seasonal visitors.
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