MUSCAT: The National Employment Programme has issued a new guide outlining procedures for government entities to contract self-employed Omani freelancers for specialised services and projects worth up to RO 5,000, under Financial Circular No. 1 of 2026.

The guide outlining procedures for contracting with self-employed Omani freelancers in the country aims to streamline contracting between government entities and independent Omani professionals, clarify the rights and obligations of both parties, and promote transparency and accountability.

The guide covers two types of contracts: providing services or carrying out specific work, and supplying products that meet defined specifications and requirements.

It also outlines procedures for announcing opportunities and receiving bids through approved government platforms, licensed freelance platforms or official media channels, subject to the applicable laws and regulations of the contracting entity.

Under the guidelines, contracts must include essential details such as the official information of both parties, the freelance work licence number, scope and duration of work, financial compensation and payment arrangements, professional obligations, and quality, health and safety requirements.

Provisions relating to confidentiality, data protection and intellectual property rights must also be incorporated into the agreements.

The guide further sets out requirements for documenting work and its deliverables, preparing periodic reports and regularly evaluating the contractor’s performance.

It allows payments to be made in instalments based on work progress or completion of agreed deliverables, provided that clear performance criteria and approval procedures are established for each stage.

Self-employed contractors are required to personally carry out the services or work specified in their contracts. They may engage others only after notifying the contracting entity and obtaining its prior approval.

The guidelines also address corrective measures, contract termination and settlement of outstanding payments. Upon termination, contractors must hand over completed work and related documents within the period stipulated in the agreement or within seven working days, unless otherwise agreed.

The issuance of the guide forms part of Oman’s broader efforts to establish an integrated self-employment framework and expand opportunities for national talent to provide specialised services to government entities.

The initiative is expected to help utilise Omani skills and expertise, strengthen local content and diversify income opportunities, in line with Oman Vision 2040’s objectives of developing a diversified, competitive and knowledge-based economy.