The number of expats working in Oman's private sector fell 24.4 per cent since January 2003. More than 134,000 expatriates left jobs in less than three years.
The total number of expatriate workers in the private sector with valid work permits stood at 415,135 as at the end of July 2005 compared with 549,338 as at the end of January 2003, a media report said.
In seven months, from December 2004 to July 2005, more than 9,000 expatriates left jobs.
"Omanisation policies of the government cover all socio-economic activities. The Omanisation campaign is not only meant to ensure jobs for citizens but also to reduce dependence on expatriates seeking self-reliance in human resources.
It's now the government's top priority more than ever before," a senior government official told Times of Oman.
"Traditionally, government has been the employer of first resort for Omanis. Liberal recruitment and good working conditions led to an oversized bureaucracy, and expatriates have filled opportunities in the private sector, predominantly," labour market analysts said.
The number of Omanis working in the private sector still accounts for less than 23 per cent (94,000) of the total expatriate work force.
There is a over three lakh-strong Indian community in Oman.
© 2026