MUSCAT: The General Federation of Workers of the Sultanate of Oman (GFOW) has launched a programme of field visits to labour unions and private-sector companies, aiming to expand union membership and strengthen workplace dialogue, the federation said on Thursday. 
The initiative is being carried out in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and sectoral general unions. Its first phase covered a series of visits in North Al Batinah Governorate from Jan 19 to Jan 27, 2026, targeting labour unions and managements at private establishments. 
GFOW said the visits are designed to encourage union formation and membership in private-sector firms, raise awareness of the role and principles of union work, and promote “a language of dialogue” between workers and employers to help organise labour relations and balance the interests of both sides. 
Ibrahim Al Ghuraibi, acting director of the federation’s Union and Labour Services Department, said the goal is to engage workers on the ground, explain how labour unions protect rights and safeguard interests, and hold direct meetings with both workers and employers to bridge views and encourage negotiation in managing the work environment. He added that the visiting team also provides legal support related to labour demands and the procedures required to establish labour unions. 
Ammar Al Ghafili, assistant president for labour legislation, said the team received recurring queries, mainly on working hours, official holidays, and occupational safety and health procedures, and responded “in a balanced manner” while stressing compliance with relevant laws and the operating conditions of each firm. He said limited legal awareness does not necessarily point to serious violations, but can disrupt contractual relations or lead to claims without a clear legal basis. He added that labour stability is essential for economic and human stability, and that challenges should be addressed through legal and regulatory tools rooted in dialogue rather than escalation.
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