Oman transitioning towards sustainable development

The Sultanate of Oman reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable social development, guided by a national approach that places the citizen at its core as both the driver and ultimate beneficiary of progress. This commitment aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and the national Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises enhancing societal well-being, ensuring equal opportunities, and protecting the most vulnerable segments of the population.
This statement was delivered in a speech by Ambassador Omar bin Said al Kathiri, Oman’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, during the Sultanate of Oman’s participation in the 64th session of the Commission for Social Development.
Convening under the theme “Fostering Social Development and Social Justice through Coordinated, Equitable and Inclusive Policies,” the session was held at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Al Kathiri elaborated that Oman has implemented an integrated suite of policies and programmes designed to strengthen social protection. Key initiatives include the enactment of the Social Protection Law and the Labour Law, as well as the establishment of the Social Protection Fund as a unified umbrella system. These measures, he affirmed, ensure comprehensive coverage and the sustainability of social benefits for all members of society. Additionally, the Job Security System has been instituted to protect individuals affected by workforce reductions.
He further explained that Oman is transitioning toward a new phase of sustainable development through a strategic framework focused on expanding economic diversification, pursuing comprehensive development across all governorates, and cultivating a skilled national workforce. These efforts collectively reinforce the nation’s social protection infrastructure.
He highlighted that Oman has launched several pivotal national programs, including the National Employment Program, which seeks to generate opportunities for job seekers; the National Program for Economic Diversification, aimed at broadening the national production base; and the National Programme for Financial Sustainability and Development of the Financial Sector.
Notably, Oman ranked first in the Gulf region in establishing a comprehensive sustainable finance framework for the public sector, financing environmental projects to accelerate the realisation of the Oman Vision 2040.
The Ambassador affirmed that Oman places particular emphasis on enhancing the efficiency of social spending and improving the quality of essential services — especially in education, health and social housing. This focus is complemented by ongoing development of government support programmes, all of which contribute to strengthening social stability, promoting inclusion and achieving sustainable growth.
He reiterated Oman’s dedication to continued collaboration with international partners and to supporting United Nations efforts in advancing comprehensive social development, promoting social justice and building more equitable and sustainable societies for present and future generations.