Oman strengthens freelance ecosystem through digital platforms

MUSCAT, JUNE 13
With the accelerating digital transformation in the Sultanate of Oman, digital platforms have emerged as a key tool for empowering freelancers to expand their businesses and access new opportunities. This has made freelance work a vital contributor to the modern economy and a supporter of economic diversification efforts.
The proceedings of the 'Reality of Freelance Work in the Sultanate of Oman' symposium, organized recently by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), represented by its Labour Market Committee, emphasized the importance of anticipating the transformations taking place in the labour market and maximizing the benefits of the opportunities offered by modern work models in supporting economic growth and empowering national talent.
Saleh bin Juma al Balushi, OCCI’s Assistant Director General for Board Affairs, explained that freelance work represents one of the promising economic pillars that contribute to enhancing the flexibility of the labour market, empowering national talent, and supporting economic diversification efforts.
He pointed out that the rapid growth of modern work models necessitates providing a supportive and stimulating environment for freelancers, keeping pace with global changes and enhancing the sector's contribution to the national economy.
Nasser bin Juma al Harthi, Senior Media and Corporate Communications Specialist at OCCI, commented: 'Freelancing platforms have an increasing role in supporting the digital economy and providing flexible work opportunities for national talent, in light of the rapid transformations the global labour market is witnessing and the growing reliance on digital and specialized skills.'
Al Harthi added that freelancing platforms have become a key component of operational business models in the global market. These platforms also serve freelancers by reducing costs, increasing productivity, and accelerating task completion. Al Harthi mentioned the importance of a comprehensive national platform for freelance work platforms. This platform would serve as a mechanism for any institution or contracting between service providers and beneficiaries, ensuring that the contract is legal and compliant with Omani laws.
Al Harthi also explained which national platforms are most frequently used by freelancers. He noted two main types: platforms based on the Algex economy and freelance work platforms, most notably Dawam and Zameeli, as also platforms are numerous and diverse, such as Tamadun and Masdar.
Despite the promising opportunities offered by freelance work, those working in this field face a number of challenges, most notably increasing competition on global platforms, the ongoing need to develop digital skills, cybersecurity requirements, and building a stable client base. However, experts believe that continued government support and the development of legislation and digital services will contribute to enhancing the sector's growth and increasing its contribution to the national economy.