According to Oman Observer, published in July 2026, Dhofar’s Al Najd farmers will benefit from a temporary labour transfer facility introduced by the Ministry of Labour in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture. The service supports seasonal farming activities while ensuring compliance with labour regulations and protecting workers’ rights.
Oman launches Farm Labour Transfer service initiative
The Oman temporary labour transfer service also helps farmers respond more efficiently to seasonal labour requirements without interrupting agricultural operations. By providing access to additional workers during peak farming periods, the initiative supports timely cultivation and harvesting while helping maintain productivity across farms in the Al Najd area.
The service follows a structured framework that balances the needs of farmers with the protection of workers’ legal rights. Clear eligibility requirements and defined transfer periods help ensure that temporary labour movements remain organised, transparent, and fully compliant with Oman’s labour regulations.
The initiative also strengthens cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Agriculture in supporting the agricultural sector. Through improved workforce planning and regulated seasonal labour access, the Oman temporary labour transfer service contributes to sustainable farming activities and enhances operational efficiency during critical agricultural seasons.
Application process requires official approval
Farmers seeking to use the Oman temporary labour transfer service must first submit an application to the Directorate of Agriculture in Wilayat Thumrait. Applicants must provide details about their crop type, farm size, proof of land ownership, a valid agricultural holding certificate, and a well permit. These documents help authorities verify eligibility before processing each request.
After receiving approval from the agricultural authority, applicants complete the remaining procedures with the Directorate General of Labour in Dhofar. This process ensures that labour transfers follow official regulations before workers begin seasonal assignments. The coordinated procedure also allows both ministries to review applications efficiently while maintaining compliance with labour and agricultural requirements.
The structured approval system helps government authorities manage seasonal workforce requirements while maintaining accurate employment records. It also enables farmers to access additional workers through an organised process during busy farming periods. By following clear application procedures, the Oman temporary labour transfer service supports efficient workforce planning and strengthens the delivery of seasonal labour services across the Al Najd region.
Oman temporary Labour Transfer supports agriculture
The Oman temporary labour transfer system includes clear conditions to protect workers and ensure appropriate use of the service. Transferred workers may only perform agricultural duties listed on their original work permits and cannot move into commercial activities. These measures help maintain compliance with labour regulations while ensuring workers remain in roles that match their approved employment status.
Workers must also have completed at least three months with their current employer, hold a minimum of three months remaining on their visa, and maintain an active employment status before qualifying for a temporary transfer. These eligibility criteria ensure that only authorised workers participate in the programme while supporting a transparent and well-regulated labour transfer process.
These requirements support legal compliance while allowing farms to meet seasonal labour needs through regulated workforce mobility. The Oman temporary labour transfer service also promotes responsible labour management by balancing the operational needs of farmers with the legal rights of workers, helping create a fair and efficient seasonal employment system across the agricultural sector.
Transfer limits ensure fair workforce management
The new system places annual limits on seasonal labour transfers to support balanced workforce management. Farmers may receive approval for up to two temporary transfer requests each year during cultivation and two additional requests during harvest.
By establishing clear eligibility requirements, application procedures, and seasonal limits, the Oman temporary labour transfer service strengthens agricultural workforce planning while supporting farmers during peak production periods. The initiative also reinforces cooperation between the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Agriculture to improve seasonal employment services across Dhofar Governorate.
