Oman’s Ministry of Finance has issued a new directive under the Oman employment policy framework, requiring ministries and other government entities to award certain works and specialised services worth up to OMR 5,000 to unemployed self-employed Omanis. The measure applies across government institutions and supports independent workers’ access to public-sector opportunities.
Oman employment policy sets new contracting rules
The directive covers ministries, government units, public institutions and public authorities. It focuses on contracts for selected works and specialised services valued at no more than OMR 5,000.
Financial Bulletin No. (1) of 2026 sets out the requirement. Government entities must apply the directive while following all relevant regulations and laws.
New opportunities for self-employed Omanis
The Oman employment policy aims to create more opportunities for Omani citizens who work independently and do not hold formal employment. Through the new arrangement, eligible workers can take part in delivering services and completing works for government entities.
The policy also supports wider participation by independent workers in public-sector contracting. As a result, self-employed Omanis can access a defined channel for offering their skills and services.
Oman contracts up to OMR 5,000 for independent workers
The framework follows the Guide to Contracting with Independent Workers in the Sultanate of Oman. The National Employment Programme approved the guide as part of efforts to organise contracting arrangements for independent workers.
The Financial and Economic Committee of the Council of Ministers provided the basis for the directive. Consequently, government entities now have a clear framework for awarding eligible contracts within the stated financial limit.
Oman Employment Policy monitoring implementation
The Ministry of Finance has asked all covered entities to monitor compliance and ensure proper implementation. They must also observe the provisions, regulations and laws that apply to government contracting.
The directive forms part of the Oman employment policy framework and places responsibility on government institutions to follow the approved contracting process. It also establishes a structured route for self-employed Omanis to provide specialised services to the public sector.
