Freelancers to get govt projects worth RO5,000

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Finance (MoF), in its Financial Circular No (1) for 2026, directed all ministries, government units, authorities, and public institutions to award certain specialised projects and services, valued at no more than RO 5,000, to independent, Omani non-employed freelancers.
The directive aligns with the regulatory framework outlined in the Guide to Procedures for Contracting with Freelancers in the Sultanate of Oman, prepared by the National Employment Programme based on a decision by the Financial and Economic Committee of the Council of Ministers.
Eng Omar bin Abdulaziz al Maamari, Head of the Entrepreneurial Track at the National Employment Programme, said the financial circular constitutes a qualitative leap in the development of the self-employment system in the Sultanate of Oman as it opens broader horizons for independent Omanis to participate in executing projects and providing services to government entities.
Al Maamari noted that a guide to contracting procedures with freelancers in the Sultanate of Oman will be published in the upcoming period. This guide will serve as a comprehensive procedural reference, regulating contracting mechanisms between government entities and freelancers. It will clearly define procedures and responsibilities to ensure efficient implementation and high-quality outputs and services. In addition, it will create a more transparent environment that allows freelancers to compete for opportunities offered by government agencies.
He said that the move is part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at building an integrated freelancing system that keeps pace with rapid global changes and opens new horizons for skilled and talented individuals to benefit from opportunities that match their abilities. He noted that this strategy focuses on developing regulatory and legislative frameworks, identifying areas and activities related to freelance work, enhancing training and qualification programmes, building capacity and providing professional and business consultations. It also aims to facilitate access to business opportunities and leverage the incentives and support provided by government entities.
Opening the door to freelancers to participate in government projects enables Omani talent to utilise their skills and expertise, transforming them into effective and direct economic opportunities. This contributes to building a solid professional portfolio that enhances their growth and competitiveness in the labour market, in addition to strengthening local content, diversifying income sources, and stimulating a spirit of innovation and initiative, Al Maamari said.
He added that the circular aligns with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to build a diversified and competitive national economy based on knowledge and Omani talent. He noted that such initiatives would enhance labour market flexibility, raise productivity levels as well as expand youth participation in various economic activities and sectors.
The circular constitutes a pivotal practical step in moving the freelancing system from its regulatory framework to a tangible economic reality that provides real opportunities for freelancers, Al Maamari said, stressing that publishing the guide in will enhance will contribute to building a more flexible and dynamic national market for specialised skills and services, enabling Omani talents to participate more broadly in implementing businesses and projects, and to contribute effectively to the comprehensive economic development process. — ONA