Workshop
Held on Construction, Engineering Consulting Sector

Muscat,
16 Jul (ONA) — The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion
today organized a workshop in Muscat focused on the regulation, governance, and
development of the construction and engineering consulting sector.

The
workshop addressed the primary challenges facing the sector and explored
opportunities for its advancement.

During
the session, discussions revolved around mechanisms for implementing a modern
operational methodology that aligns with future aspirations and supports
efforts to Omanize the workforce and enhance the efficiency of the national labour
market. This aims to bolster the competitive advantage of the construction and
engineering consulting sector and ensure its sustainable growth.

The
workshop also delved into several key areas, including establishing a clear
operational methodology for the construction and engineering consulting sector
and identifying potential replacement opportunities. A strong emphasis was
placed on pinpointing activities and professions of national priority.
Additionally, mechanisms for calculating appropriate Omanization percentages
for the sector were discussed, along with proposals for offering incentives
that encourage company stability and help them increase Omanization rates
sustainably and effectively.

Among
the topics covered were challenges related to direct operation. The workshop
also explored operational alternatives like “parallel operation,”
which leverages modern technologies, including artificial intelligence, to
improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance occupational health
and safety standards at worksites. A proposal to include new activities within
the freelance program was highlighted, aiming to expand opportunities for job
seekers and open new avenues for entrepreneurship in construction and related
engineering services.

A
comprehensive analytical presentation was delivered during the workshop,
featuring statistical data related to employment in the construction and
engineering consulting sector, categorized by major economic activities and the
sector’s contribution to the gross domestic product.

The
workshop was attended by Dr. Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry
of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry,
along with members of the reference committee representing various relevant
governmental and private entities.

—Ebds.AG