Overview
The mining sector in Oman employs ~15,000 direct workers with an Omanisation rate of ~45%. Workforce development is a critical enabler of Vision 2040 objectives, requiring targeted interventions in skills training, career pathway development, and nationalisation policies tailored to sector-specific needs.
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Current | 2040 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Employment | ~15,000 direct | See 2040 targets |
| Omanisation Rate | ~45% | See 2040 targets |
| Key Employers | Public Authority for Mining, Oman Mining… | Expanding |
Analysis
Workforce composition in Oman’s mining sector reflects both historical development patterns and emerging skill requirements. The current Omanisation rate of ~45% indicates moderate progress toward nationalisation targets. Key employers including Public Authority for Mining, Oman Mining Company, Al Tasnim, Minerals Development Oman are implementing structured training programmes. However, skills gaps persist in technical specialisations, middle management, and digital competencies. The sector must balance rapid Omanisation with maintaining operational excellence and international competitiveness.
Challenges
Skills mismatch between education outputs and sector requirements remains the primary workforce challenge. Limited geological survey data for frontier areas, small-scale artisanal operations lacking efficiency, water scarcity for processing, environmental permitting bottlenecks, and low domestic value addition (most minerals exported as raw ore). Additionally, retaining Omani talent in the face of competition from government and higher-paying sectors requires innovative compensation and career development frameworks.
Opportunities
Structured apprenticeship programmes, industry-academia partnerships, and TVET alignment with sector needs can accelerate workforce readiness. Copper smelting and refining (Oman has significant sulphide deposits), limestone for cement and construction materials export, rare earth element exploration, marble and dimension stone for luxury markets, and critical minerals for battery supply chains.
Vision 2040 Targets
Raise mining GDP share to 3-5 percent; complete national geological survey; establish three mineral processing zones; double mining exports; achieve 60 percent Omanisation.