Gen Z Breaking stereotypes
Unlike the generations before them, Omani Gen Zs are less focused on simply securing a government job or climbing the corporate ladder. Instead, many are looking for purpose, flexibility and impact.
Whether it is starting a small business on Instagram, producing short films with a message, or launching an app that solves a community need, Gen Z is proving to be both pragmatic and idealistic.
'We are not just job seekers; we're problem solvers,' says Sara al Mahrouqi, a 23-year-old computer Science graduate and freelance developer. 'We grew up with social media, so our sense of community and impact is global. But we also care deeply about our roots and how we can give back to Oman'. As Oman continues to diversify its economy and embrace innovation, the role of Gen Z will be critical.
Yet, they also face challenges: job market uncertainty, climate anxieties and pressure to meet both traditional expectations and modern aspirations. Still, their outlook remains largely hopeful.
'We are the bridge generation,' says Sara. 'And we're ready to build something different — not just for ourselves, but for the next generation, too'. According to recent studies by Oman Vision 2040 youth initiatives, there is a marked shift among Gen Z towards fields like renewable energy, digital content creation, cybersecurity and sustainable entrepreneurship. Many are also drawn to hybrid career paths such as combining a day job with a passion project or digital startup.
Ahmed al Shidi, 21, a business student shares: 'I don't want to wait until graduation to start building something. My generation sees opportunities online. We want to learn fast, fail fast and adapt'. This generation is also challenging traditional education models. While higher education remains important, many Gen Zs in Oman are supplementing their degrees with online courses, bootcamps and certifications in digital skills.
'You can learn anything online now,' says Fatma al Rawahi, 19, who is teaching herself graphic design via YouTube and Coursera. 'Universities are great, but self-learning makes us agile and independent'. The Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation has responded by increasing support for research, innovation grants and integrating entrepreneurship in university programmes — an alignment many Gen Z students welcome.
Despite their tech-savviness, many Gen Zs are also wary of social media's downsides. Mental health awareness is rising and discussions around digital balance, online identity and cyber safety are increasingly common in schools and university forums.
'We know the dangers of comparison culture and misinformation,' says Salim al Hinai, 20. 'That's why we value authenticity. We use social media as a tool, not a lifestyle'. Gen Z in Oman may be digital natives, but they are also proudly Omani. Their identity is a fusion of global influence and local pride — reflected in the way they celebrate National Day on TikTok or start eco-conscious ventures rooted in traditional crafts.
'They may dress in sneakers and hoodies,' says educator Amal al Hosni, 'but their values — family, faith, community — remain deeply Omani. The difference is in how they express and negotiate those values'.
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