MUSCAT : The ministry said all establishments and workers covered under the decision must complete registration procedures and obtain valid professional licences before the deadline, following the expiry of the grace period granted to regularise their status.

The move is being implemented in coordination with the Oman Energy Association, represented by the Sector Skills Unit for the Energy and Minerals Sector, as part of efforts to regulate the labour market and improve professional standards across critical industries.

Under the new rules, work permits for employees in the specified professions will not be renewed unless a valid professional licence has been obtained. The ministry also said new work permits for incoming workers will not be issued without prior licensing approval.

It further warned that failure to register and complete licensing procedures will lead to financial penalties in accordance with applicable labour regulations.

The mandatory licensing framework covers a wide range of technical and operational professions in the energy and mining sector, including occupational health and safety advisers, crane and heavy equipment operators, drilling personnel, welders, electricians, mechanics, maintenance technicians, pipe fitters, and CNC machine operators.

The ministry urged companies and workers to review the approved list of professions and ensure all affected employees are registered through the designated electronic platform before the enforcement date.

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