4 May 2025

The General Federation of Oman Workers (GFOW) celebrated Labour Day today, observed globally on 1 May each year. The event was held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Mohad Said Baowain, Minister of Labour, and was attended by a number of dignitaries, representatives from private sector companies and civil society organisations, as well as members of the media with a focus on workers’ issues.

This celebration reflects Oman’s participation alongside countries around the world in recognising the contributions of workers and the importance of the trade union movement. The event highlighted the role of trade unions in improving working conditions in the private sector, honoured the recipients of the 2025 Trade Union Work Award, and shed light on the current challenges facing private sector workers.

The occasion featured an address by the Chairman of the GFOW Board of Directors, Nabhan Ahmed Al-Battashi, who stated:“We believe that we are facing significant national responsibilities that require all of us—unions, institutions, and individuals—to intensify our efforts in meeting the aspirations of workers in Oman. Raising the minimum wage in line with the cost of living, creating sustainable employment opportunities for young people, expanding social protection to ensure dignity and security for all workers, and regulating domestic and temporary work are priorities we remain committed to. We will continue working together with our tripartite partners to achieve these goals through evidence-based approaches and coherent economic and social policies.”

Al-Battashi added:“As part of our ongoing efforts to promote positive and constructive engagement, we are proud to celebrate the Trade Union Work Award, which recognises a group of trade unionists, workers, and private sector companies that have shown outstanding commitment and made a meaningful impact in advancing workers’ rights. We offer them our warmest congratulations and sincere appreciation. This recognition is not only a tribute to the recipients, but also a call for all to keep up the momentum, take the lead in improving working environments, and promote social and economic justice for workers across all sectors.”

He also underscored the importance of social dialogue: “On this occasion, we reaffirm the importance of ongoing social dialogue between trade unions and employers. Effective dialogue is the cornerstone of a work environment built on mutual understanding and respect. At the GFOW, we believe that meaningful partnership among all tripartite partners is essential for achieving balance, progress, and stability in the labour market, and for enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy.”

During the event, GFOW launched Trade Union Data Management System, a major milestone in its efforts to modernise union operations in response to global digital transformations. The system is designed to streamline processes, strengthen communication, provide a unified data platform, and promote transparency in trade union work.

The event also saw the launch of  Members’ Benefits Programme, part of GFOW’s broader strategy to grow its membership base and enhance the quality of services provided to union members. One of the programme’s key components is a dedicated platform that offers a range of exclusive benefits to affiliated members.

The celebration concluded with the presentation of Trade Union Work Award—an initiative developed and owned by the GFOW. Through this award, the GFOW honours selected trade unions, government institutions, private sector companies, and civil society organisations—or their representatives—for their active role in supporting and advancing trade union activities. The award aims to promote balance in the labour market and ensure both economic and social stability, while encouraging all stakeholders to continue contributing to a stronger, more effective trade union movement.