MUSCAT: Oman’s manufacturing and industrial sector recorded the strongest hiring growth among all major industries in the Sultanate during April and May 2026, highlighting the sector’s growing role in supporting economic activity and employment opportunities.

According to the latest Naukrigulf Hiring Index, employer demand in the manufacturing and industrial sector rose by 36 per cent year-on-year, making it the best-performing industry in Oman during the period. The report also found that hiring in the retail, FMCG and consumer sector increased by 23 per cent, reflecting continued confidence in consumer-driven businesses and domestic demand.

The findings come amid a softer hiring environment across the Gulf region, with recruitment activity affected by wider economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Despite these challenges, Oman’s industrial sector continued to attract talent, underlining the importance of manufacturing and production-related industries to the Sultanate’s diversification agenda.

The report also noted that the oil, gas and energy sector remained stable, demonstrating sustained activity across one of Oman’s most important economic pillars. Together, the strong performance of manufacturing and the resilience of energy and consumer sectors helped support hiring momentum in key areas of the economy.

Sharad Sindhwani, Executive Vice President and Business Head at Naukrigulf, said hiring activity continues to vary across markets and industries, with Oman showing particular strength in industrial and consumer-facing sectors despite broader challenges across the region. He noted that while overall hiring demand has softened compared to last year, several sectors continue to generate employment opportunities and attract employer interest.