The theme this year – ‘Women are Partners in Development’ – highlights their contribution across sectors

Muscat – The sultanate will celebrate Omani Women’s Day on October 17, recognising the essential role women play in building the nation. This year’s theme – ‘Women are Partners in Development’ – highlights their contributions across political, economic, cultural and educational fields, underscoring their importance in driving sustainable development.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has consistently advocated for Omani women’s rights, emphasising their role as equal partners in shaping the country’s present and future. His Majesty the Sultan has called for their empowerment across sectors, including senior positions in government, reflecting their critical role in the nation’s progress.

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, as of June 2024, over 100,450 Omani women were employed in the government sector and 119,593 in the private.

Women make up 57% of the workforce in craft industries, showcasing their significant contribution to the economy.

In education, there are 366,532 female Omani students in government schools and 62,212 in private institutions. There are 40,368 female teachers in government and 6,793 in private schools. The higher education sector welcomed 19,939 female students in the 2022/2023 academic year, and 1,361 Omani women now serve as faculty members.

Amira bint Salem al Shuaibi, the first woman from Oman and the Gulf states to hold the title of Ship Traffic Officer and trained in commanding warships and nuclear submarines, reflected on the determination of Omani women in overcoming challenges. “Women raise the sail of pride for all, navigating the waves of challenges with determination,” she said. She highlighted the fact that Omani women are key partners in the nation’s renaissance, contributing to Oman Vision 2040 through creativity and perseverance. “Determination and persistence know no boundaries, and a woman’s self-confidence is the key to overcoming difficulties,” she added.

Nasra bint Salem al Majrifi, an electrical engineer and the first Omani woman to work in the crane department at Asyad Container Terminal, echoed these sentiments noting that Oman Vision 2040 places women’s empowerment at the forefront of societal development. “Omani women have demonstrated their worth in various fields,” she said, while also acknowledging the challenges they face in the workplace. Nasra stressed the importance of confronting stereotypes and balancing the multiple roles women play. “Success is not defined by gender but by hard work and passion,” she said, adding that the support Omani women receive motivates them to excel and contribute to society.

Nasra bint Sulayem al Harthi, an aircraft maintenance engineer at Oman Air, highlighted the crucial role women play in sectors traditionally dominated by men pointing to their accomplishments in aviation and other challenging fields. “Omani women have proved themselves as true partners in sustainable development.”

As the sultanate celebrates Omani Women’s Day, the achievements of these women are a testament to their vital role in the nation’s development. Their contributions, spanning various fields, continue to shape the country’s progress and align with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, ensuring that women remain a driving force in Oman’s future.