02-07-2025
Seafarers' Day marked with focus on maritime growth and reforms
Muscat – Oman observed International Day of the Seafarer with a ceremony on Wednesday recognising the vital role of maritime professionals and reaffirming the sultanate's commitment to expanding its shipping and logistics capabilities.
Held under the patronage of H E Dr Said bin Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy, the event was organised by Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT).
Speaking at the ceremony, H E Khamis bin Mohammed al Shamakhi, Undersecretary for Transport, said Oman's ports continue to serve as strategic trade gateways along the nation's coastline. 'Our logistics infrastructure remains resilient despite regional challenges.'
H E Shamakhi added that over 1,000 Omani seafarers are currently employed across national ferries, commercial ships and fishing vessels, with many in leadership roles. The logistics sector contributes more than 6% of Oman's GDP, driven largely by maritime operations.
Mazen bin Hamad al Rashidi, Director of Maritime Transport at MTCIT, said the ministry has recently introduced a series of reforms including updates to the Maritime Law, which now features investor-friendly provisions aligned with Oman Vision 2040. These reforms are compliant with international maritime conventions.
Oman has signed 16 mutual recognition agreements for seafarer certificates and ten cooperation agreements with international classification societies. It has also joined the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities further cementing its global maritime ties.
According to Rashidi, over 95% of seafarer-related services are now offered digitally, allowing faster certification processes and improved verification. MTCIT issued 188 seafarer certificates, 315 maritime activity licences and processed 950 services through ship registration offices in Q1 2025. As part of inspection and compliance efforts, 74 foreign ships were checked at Omani ports during the same period. The ministry also issued more than 100 navigation permits for vessels operating in domestic waters.
To protect workers' rights, a new grievance mechanism has been introduced for seafarers. In a regional first, Oman has launched a bunkering service using ma- ss flow meters to improve transparency in marine fuel supply.
The celebration highlighted Oman's broader strategy to develop local talent, attract international investment, and position the sultanate as a competitive hub in maritime trade and logistics.
