Salalah – The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced a package of measures to support Dhofar Khareef 2026, including temporary employment opportunities for Omani youth, financial incentives and labour market regulations aimed at meeting the demands of the peak tourism season.

Nasser bin Salem Al Hadhrami, Director General of Labour in Dhofar, said the ministry is coordinating with government and private sector entities to organise seasonal job opportunities for Omanis across sectors linked to the khareef season, enabling young people to benefit from the economic activity while gaining practical work experience.

As part of the initiative, eligible Omanis taking up seasonal jobs will receive temporary financial support of RO150 per month throughout the khareef season to encourage greater participation in seasonal economic activities and promote labour market stability.

The ministry has also introduced several measures for employers and Omani entrepreneurs, including temporary work permits for hiring expatriate workers and a service allowing the temporary transfer of expatriate labour between establishments. The move is intended to help businesses cope with increased demand during the tourism season while ensuring compliance with labour regulations and reducing illegal employment practices.

To raise awareness, the MoL has launched a campaign – ‘Together We Work for a Season with an Omani Identity and National Hands’ – highlighting the importance of adhering to labour laws and promoting the role of Omani talent in seasonal businesses.

Officials stressed the need to prioritise national employment opportunities, respect Omanisation requirements and avoid employing expatriates in roles reserved for citizens. Temporary licence holders have also been urged to comply with regulations and refrain from leasing or transferring permits or allowing expats to manage licensed activities.

Al Hadhrami said the ministry is conducting awareness visits to businesses, commercial establishments and mobile vendors to provide guidance on labour rights, workplace safety requirements and the services available during the season.

In addition, the MoL is making arrangements to conduct the third edition of the Labour Forum in Salalah from July 26 to August 13. The event is expected to attract more than 1,000 participants from government agencies, private companies and academic institutions.

The forum will address the future of labour markets, global economic trends, employment and social protection policies, updates to labour legislation and opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation. Representatives from regional and international organisations, including the International Labour Organization, are expected to participate in sessions focused on workforce development and employment policies.

Al Hadhrami said the forum will provide an important platform for sharing expertise, discussing best practices and facilitating dialogue among stakeholders to support the development of a more efficient, sustainable and resilient labour market in Oman.