MUSCAT : The official told TAS that one of the key reasons for the ban was the high numbers of expat workers in the listed professions. The increase in expatriate workers filling these roles had raised concerns about labour market regulations, he added.

Besides, he noted that most illegal workers apprehended in the country are employed in these professions, which underscores the need for stricter rules.

Through the ban, the ministry aims to better regulate and control the labour market, ensuring adherence to legal employment practices, while encouraging illegal workers to correct their employment status.

However, he explained that the decision would not affect expatriates currently employed in the country in these jobs, as it permits renewal or transfer of visa, provided it is submitted from within the country. As per Article 2 of the Ministerial Decision No. 180/2022, ‘permits may be issued for the employment of non-Omani workers in the professions listed in the annex, provided that the request for renewal or transfer of services is submitted from within the Sultanate of Oman.’

It may be noted that the Ministry has announced suspension of expatriate workers in 13 13 professions: construction worker (general), cleaning worker (general building), loading and unloading worker, bricklayer, steel fixer, tailor (women’s clothing and general), tailor (men’s clothing and general), electrician (general electrical installations), waiter, painter, chef (general), electrician (home installations) and barber.

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