logo
Oman launches hotel training drive for youth employment

Oman launches hotel training drive for youth employment

Observer02-06-2025
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has signed a partnership agreement to launch a training-for-employment program in hotel reception across various establishments in Dhofar Governorate.
The initiative aims to equip young Omanis with skills for front desk and hotel management roles, reflecting a broader strategy to enhance national employment in the growing tourism sector.
The three-month training will be conducted by the Muscat Hospitality Academy, in affiliation with the internationally accredited Swiss School of Business, Hospitality, and Hotel Management.
This collaboration between the public and private sectors is intended to boost service quality in the hospitality industry while aligning with Oman's vision for sustainable tourism development. The program also supports long-term economic diversification by creating new job opportunities for national talent.
The agreement is part of a broader set of initiatives launched by the Ministry to build a skilled local workforce and support the continued growth of Oman's tourism sector.
— ONA
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Annual date harvest season, Al Tabseel, showcases centuries-old techniques
Annual date harvest season, Al Tabseel, showcases centuries-old techniques

Observer

time10 hours ago

  • Observer

Annual date harvest season, Al Tabseel, showcases centuries-old techniques

Farms and villages across Oman are brimming with excitement as the season of Al Tabseel unfolds — a time of jubilant celebration, collective effort and cultural pride deeply rooted in the country's rich heritage. This annual tradition, which coincides with the peak summer months from late June to late July, transforms local communities into vibrant hubs of activity centred around date harvesting, processing and communal merriment. Al Tabseel is much more than merely an agricultural activity; it embodies Oman's centuries-old social fabric and farming expertise. The season signifies the harvest of the prized Mabsali dates, particularly from the lush plantations of Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, renowned for producing some of the finest dates that are not only beloved locally but also exported globally. These dates, distinguished by their bright yellow colour and sweet flavour, are carefully harvested, boiled in large traditional vessels known as Marajel, and sun-dried in open spaces such as Al Mestah — an age-old practice that preserves the dates' nutritional qualities whilst maintaining their cultural significance. Safa al Balushi, Creative Director of Al Mirani Fort, explains, 'Al Tabseel takes place during the hottest months when the Mabsali dates ripen. Farmers gather to harvest, then boil the dates for around half an hour before drying them under the sun for several days. It is a deeply rooted cultural event that brings communities together through traditional songs, storytelling and celebrations once the processing is complete'. The Al Mirani Fort, majestically perched on the Muttrah Corniche, recently hosted a lively celebration of Al Tabseel, supported by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. The event attracted numerous farmers and artisans from different regions, displaying a remarkable variety of dates and honouring Oman's enduring agricultural traditions. The gathering exemplified the inseparable link between coastal trade routes and inland farming practices — the historical relationship where dates harvested from oases were transported to coastal markets, bolstering local economies and fostering cultural exchange. 'Al Tabseel is a vivid illustration of Oman's interconnected heritage', remarks Safa al Balushi. 'It reflects the symbiotic relationship between sea and land, between commerce and community and highlights how these traditions have sustained generations of Omanis'. Since ancient times, farmers across Oman have celebrated this season with communal spirit and pride, often inviting entire families to participate in the harvest. Although modern influences have altered some traditional practices, the essence of Al Tabseel endures. Many wilayats continue to value this season as a significant social, cultural and economic event — an annual celebration that unites communities and safeguards their collective identity. According to historians and agricultural specialists, the tradition of Al Tabseel probably dates back several centuries, symbolising Oman's resilience and harmonious relationship with its natural resources. Today, efforts are underway to preserve and promote this cultural treasure, ensuring that future generations can continue to uphold and enjoy the legacy of their ancestors while sharing the renowned taste and tradition of Oman's dates with the world.

Minimum periodic increment for Omani workers in pvt sector
Minimum periodic increment for Omani workers in pvt sector

Observer

time11 hours ago

  • Observer

Minimum periodic increment for Omani workers in pvt sector

The Minister of Labour has issued a ministerial decision setting the minimum periodic bonus (salary increment) and regulating its disbursement to Omanis working in the private sector. An Omani worker will be entitled to a periodic increment on January 1 of each year, provided that he has been employed in the establishment for at least 6 months, according to the result of his evaluation in the performance report (Ejada), and as a minimum, as follows: Four percent of the basic wage if the worker receives a very good evaluation. Two percent of the basic wage if the worker receives an acceptable evaluation. Five percent of the basic wage if the worker receives an excellent evaluation. Three percent of the basic wage if the worker receives a good evaluation. The worker is not entitled to a periodic increment if he receives a (poor performance report. Decision The Minister of Labor issued Ministerial Resolution 317/2025 on Sunday regarding setting the minimum periodic allowance and regulating its disbursement to Omanis working in the private sector. Based on the Labor Law issued by Royal Decree No. 53/2023, and Ministerial Resolution No. 541/2013 specifying the minimum periodic allowance for Omanis working in the private sector and the procedures and conditions for its disbursement, and based on what the public interest requires, it is decided. Article 2 Without prejudice to any better benefit granted to the worker, the Omani worker is entitled to a periodic bonus on the first of January of each year, provided that he has been appointed for at least (6) six months in the establishment, according to the result of his evaluation in the performance report and as a minimum as follows: - (5%) five percent of the basic salary if the worker receives an excellent evaluation. - (4%) four percent of the basic salary if the worker receives a very good evaluation. - (3%) three percent of the basic salary if the worker receives a good evaluation. - (2%) two percent of the basic wage if the worker receives an acceptable evaluation. The worker is not entitled to a periodic bonus if he receives a 'weak' performance report. In all cases, the worker has the right to file a grievance against the results of his evaluation in the performance report with the relevant administrative division in the Ministry. Article Three In applying the provisions of Article (50) of the Labor Law, the establishment in which the worker spent the longest period of one year is responsible for preparing a performance report on him, and the establishment to which he is transferred is obligated to pay the periodic bonus due to him. Article Four The employer may reduce the periodic increment if the establishment proves that there is an economic reason, provided that the committee stipulated in Article 45 of the Labor Law approves. Article 5 The employer may stop the periodic bonus in the following cases: 1 - If the worker is accused of committing a misdemeanor or felony within the workplace and is referred for investigation by the competent authorities, and in the event that a final judgment is issued acquitting him, the establishment shall be obligated to pay the periodic bonuses that were suspended, in accordance with the provisions of this decision. 2 - If the worker spends unpaid leave under the provisions of Articles (80, 83) of the Labor Law or is absent from work for a period exceeding (6) six months in the year in which the periodic bonus is calculated. Article 6 The periodic increment shall continue to be paid to the worker after the reason for the reduction or suspension has been removed, under the provisions of this decision. Article Seven An administrative fine of RO50 shall be imposed on every employer who violates the provisions of this decision, and the fine shall be multiplied by the number of workers involved in the violation. Article Eight Ministerial Resolution No. 541/2013 referred to herein shall be cancelled, as shall anything that contradicts this resolution or conflicts with its provisions. Article Nine This decision shall be published in the Official Gazette and shall take effect from the day following the date of its publication.

Osara: A coastal tourism experience redefining Dhofar's khareef season
Osara: A coastal tourism experience redefining Dhofar's khareef season

Muscat Daily

time4 days ago

  • Muscat Daily

Osara: A coastal tourism experience redefining Dhofar's khareef season

Dhofar – The 'Osara' tourism project, located on Raysut Beach in Salalah, is one of the most prominent tourist and entertainment destinations accompanying the Dhofar Khareef Season 2025. An Omani youth project launched in 2022, 'Osara' witnessed new developments this year across several of its facilities, including the waterfront, which was redesigned to provide a better visitor experience by expanding areas overlooking the sea, creating open seating areas, and adding restaurants and cafes with direct views of the beach. Majid Samhan Al-Mashli, one of the project's founders, said 'Since the launch of the project, we have been keen to present innovative ideas that are in line with visitors' aspirations, and we constantly strive to develop the various facilities of 'Osara' to enhance the quality of the tourism experience.' He pointed out that a new electric games area was added this year within the adventure area, to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children and their families. In addition to the waterfront and a playground, the site includes a popular market showcasing Omani crafts and traditional products for which Dhofar Governorate is famous. Various retail outlets are also located throughout the site, contributing to supporting productive families and local brands. 'Osara' also includes a theater hosting cultural and entertainment events targeting all age groups, along with quiet beach seating areas that combine entertainment and relaxation. It's worth noting that the 'Osara' project is distinguished by its environmental nature, as it was constructed using recycled wood, making it a model for sustainable tourism. OSARA is supported by Dhofar Municipality, the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, and the Port of Salalah, as part of its efforts to support youth initiatives and enable local entrepreneurs to contribute to boosting tourism during the autumn season. The 'Osara' tourism project, set along Salalah's scenic Raysut Beach, has emerged as a key destination during Dhofar's Khareef Season 2025. Launched by young Omanis in 2022, the project has seen several upgrades this year, particularly along the waterfront. The redesigned beachfront now features expanded sea-view areas, open seating, and a range of cafés and restaurants directly overlooking the shore, all aimed at enhancing the visitor experience. Majid Samhan al-Mashli, one of the founders, told Oman News Agency (ONA), 'Since Osara's inception, we've been committed to offering fresh, innovative ideas that meet visitor expectations. Each year, we work on improving the project's features to elevate the tourism experience.' Among the new additions this season is an electric games zone within the adventure area, designed as a safe and fun space for children and families. Beyond the waterfront, Osara also includes a playground and a vibrant market showcasing traditional Omani crafts and Dhofar's famous local products. Spread across the site are retail outlets that support local brands and productive families. A dedicated theatre hosts cultural and entertainment events catering to all ages, while quiet beachside seating offers a peaceful escape. What sets Osara apart is its eco-conscious design. Built using recycled wood, it serves as a model of sustainable tourism. The project is supported by Dhofar Municipality, the Public Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, and the Port of Salalah — all working to empower youth initiatives and drive local tourism during the autumn season.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store