Muscat – The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced the mandatory implementation of a Professional Accreditation System for the industrial sector across the sultanate, making occupational classification and professional licensing compulsory for several professions.

The decision, issued in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and the Sector Skills Unit for the Industrial Sector, will apply to approved professions operating in industrial establishments. Applications for professional classification certificates and practice licences will open on February 9, with mandatory enforcement beginning on May 1.

MoL said it will not issue or renew work permits for professions covered under the system unless the required professional certificate or licence has been obtained after the enforcement date. The requirement applies to both Omani nationals and expatriate workers.

Under the professional classification track, the system will apply to occupations including factory manager, operations manager, transformational industries production manager, maintenance manager, analytical chemist, operations analyst, advertising specialist, ceramic artist, operational risk analyst, electronics technician, production technician, welding technician, chemical technician, paint industry technician, factories installation technician and graphic designer.

Other professions cover plastic extruding machines operators, food industry chemist and technicians, stone and marble cutting and sawing workers, plastic injection machines operators, plastic bags production line workers, furniture carpenters, and stone and marble lathe operators.

All employees in the targeted professions must complete the accreditation process through the ministry’s electronic system. Industrial establishments are urged to take immediate steps to ensure compliance within the specified timeframe and avoid disruption to employment or operations.

The Professional Accreditation System covers managerial, technical and specialised roles under two tracks – professional classification and professional licensing – aimed at regulating skills, standardising qualifications and supporting workforce development in the industrial sector.

MoL called on all concerned establishments to complete the required procedures ahead of the May deadline. Registration and applications details are available through its website – www.mol.gov.om