MUSCAT: In line with its mission to update, inform, and connect Oman’s business community, the Oman American Business Center (OABC) hosted ‘Workforce Planning: Key Trends in Immigration, Travel, and Labor Policies’, with speakers from Fragomen, CMS Oman, and Qatar Airways on February 22, for OABC members and special guests.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly created significant obstacles for companies in Oman, especially regarding workforce requirements,” says Rebecca Olson, Executive Director of the OABC.  “There is an increased need to respond quickly and effectively to employee mobility challenges while continuing to comply with evolving travel requirements, increased focus on Omanization and precautionary restrictions. Planning is vital to ensure companies navigate this complex landscape,” says Shayan Sultan, Director of Fragomen.

Given the strategic importance of maintaining and refreshing the talent in Oman, the session examined current immigration and labor policies, and discussed what workforce planning and mobilization look like for companies now and in the near future.

Shayan Sultan, Director – Middle East and North Africa at Fragomen, Ajay Jacob, Regional Manager GCC at Qatar Airways, and Ben Ewing, Partner at CMS Oman, each presented in turn, leaving time for Q & A. 

The Oman American Business Center (OABC) is best known for hosting high-level professional networking events and informational sessions for professionals across the Sultanate.  

As the official affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Oman, the OABC is devoted to supporting the development of commercial relations between Oman and the U.S., and also focuses heavily on networking Oman’s business community through unique events, knowledge-sharing events, and programs year-round.