Oman's job market in 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges. According to the National Centre for Statistics & Information (NCSI), the unemployment rate in Oman was recorded at 2.3% in 2024. The government's Omanization policy aims to increase employment opportunities for Omani nationals, which can impact the availability of jobs for expatriates. However, sectors like healthcare, education, and information technology continue to seek skilled professionals.
Suggested: Top Applicant Tracking System in Oman
Job Hunt Starter Checklist
- Understand which industries are excluded from Omanization and focus your efforts there (e.g., IT, oil & gas, private healthcare, construction).
- Create a CV in English, but prepare a brief one-page Arabic version if you are applying to a local or semi-government firm.
- Research your visa type; employers will ask if your employment visa is transferable or if you’re on a family/dependent visa.
- If eligible, familiarise yourself with the Ministry of Labor job portal (https://www.mol.gov.om) and register with your civil ID.
- For a wider listing pool, use Omani-specific job portals like Qureos, Oman Jobs, Jobzella Oman, Tanqeeb Oman, and Qureos.
- Join Omani LinkedIn groups and follow the pages of local companies. Many job updates are posted there before they hit job boards.
Suggested: How to Answer 'What Are Your Salary Expectations?'
How to Find Jobs in Oman in 2025
1. Don’t Waste Time on Roles Under Strict Omanization
Oman has been actively pushing Omanization policies to increase employment for citizens in certain roles like HR, admin, accounting, and clerical work. If you're an expat job seeker, avoid these sectors unless the company is explicitly hiring foreign nationals. Instead, go after roles in IT, engineering, healthcare, logistics, or oil services, fields where specialized expat talent is still in demand.
2. Having a Local Reference Changes Everything
Even if you don’t know someone personally, find a way to get a local name on your application, someone who worked at the company, even briefly. Reach out via LinkedIn or through alumni networks and say, “Would you be open to answering a quick question about working at [Company]?” People in Oman are often generous with referrals once they know you’re respectful.
Also Read: Top Recruitment Agencies in Oman
3. Tailoring Your CV for the Omani Market
Your CV should be concise, ideally one to two pages, and tailored to the job you're applying for. Highlight relevant experience and skills, and avoid including unnecessary personal details. Employers in Oman appreciate clarity and relevance. Consider using Qureos' Iris AI Job Coach to enhance your CV and find suitable job matches.
4. Follow Company WhatsApp Numbers or Telegram Channels
Several private companies in Oman (especially in retail, sales, and services) now post openings via WhatsApp status updates or Telegram job boards. This is how local hiring happens, quietly and fast. Ask friends in your target industry to share the latest job group invites.
Suggested: Top In-Demand Jobs in Oman
5. Don’t Rely on Public CV Drops at Malls or Cafés
It used to be common to drop off your CV at reception desks in malls, hospitals, or restaurants. That practice is fading fast, most hiring is digital now. If you’re applying in person, it must be intentional: ask to speak to the HR admin directly and introduce yourself with a short elevator pitch.
6. Use Your Visit Visa Window Wisely
You're on the clock if you’re visiting Oman and job hunting on a tourist or family visa. Target walk-ins in free zones, industrial parks, and business clusters like Knowledge Oasis or Airport Heights. Weekdays between 9 AM and 1 PM are your best shot. Be professionally dressed and bring multiple hard copies of your CV and pa assport copy.
Suggested: Complete Guide to Oman Labor Laws!
7. Know Your Salary Expectations in OMR
One of the most common mistakes job seekers make is quoting unrealistic salaries. Research average ranges in Omani Rial (OMR) on sites like Glassdoor, Bayt, and Qureos salary benchmarks. You'll be silently skipped if you ask for 800 OMR for a 500 OMR role.
Navigating Oman's job market requires a proactive approach, cultural fluency, and adaptability. You can enhance your chances of securing employment in Oman by leveraging available resources, tailoring your application materials, and staying informed about market trends. Remember, persistence and continuous learning are key to success in any job market.
