03 Apr Interview with Eng. Mohammed Al-Naabi, CEO of Oman Energy Association (OPAL), Sultanate of Oman
JT: How does OPAL align its initiatives with Oman Vision 2040, and what key milestones has it achieved to advance the energy and minerals sector in line with this vision?
Al-Naabi: OPAL supports Vision 2040 by driving excellence in Oman’s energy and minerals sector through collaboration, opportunity creation, and a future-ready workforce. In the past year, we organized 22+ forums, workshops, and conferences, including a unified Omani Women’s Day celebration with industry operators. We launched programs to help young Omanis enter the workforce, with our Energy & Minerals Sector Skills Unit becoming the industry’s hub for workforce development. A key milestone was the International Occupational Health Summit, which addressed health and safety challenges, reinforcing our commitment to workforce well-being and industry sustainability, central to Vision 2040.
JT: What strategies does OPAL employ to strengthen collaboration among its members, and how does this collaboration translate into tangible benefits for Oman’s energy sector?
Al-Naabi: As the industry’s voice, OPAL connects energy companies, service providers, and regulators to build a stronger, more competitive sector. With over 500 members, we ensure all stakeholders contribute to shaping the industry’s future. One of our key strategies is hosting engagement forums, where companies can raise challenges and collaborate on solutions. In 2023 alone, we processed nearly 400 labor clearance requests, helping businesses secure the talent they needed. Additionally, we launched a new digital platform to streamline access to OPAL’s services, making industry collaboration more efficient and effective.
JT: How is OPAL promoting sustainability within the hydrocarbon sector, and what role do renewable energy projects play in the organization’s long-term vision?
Al-Naabi: Sustainability is not just a buzzword—it’s the future of energy. OPAL is ensuring its members are prepared for this transition through key initiatives. A major milestone was the development of Oman’s Road Safety Strategy (2023-2030), aimed at improving transportation safety and reducing environmental impact. We have also updated critical industry standards, such as the Lifting Operations Management and Industrial Hygiene Guidelines, to enhance safety and sustainability. Through close collaboration with the government and private sector, OPAL is actively driving Oman’s energy industry toward a greener future.
JT: Can you elaborate on the objectives and expected impact of the Green Alliance Initiative, and how Opal’s members are contributing to its success?
Al-Naabi: The Green Alliance Initiative aims to make Oman’s energy sector more sustainable through afforestation, green technologies, and carbon credit investments. Our members play a key role by adopting sustainable practices, supporting reforestation projects, and improving energy efficiency. Beyond afforestation, we are actively collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Energy & Minerals, to advance environmental sustainability across the sector. This is just the beginning, and we remain committed to driving greener industry practices.
JT: How is OPAL enhancing workforce development in Oman’s energy sector, and what new initiatives or partnerships are planned to further empower Omani talent?
Al-Naabi: Empowering Omanis with industry-ready skills is a top priority. We have trained and employed over 15,000 Omanis and now oversee national occupational standards for oil and gas, clean energy, and minerals through the Energy and Minerals Skills Sector Unit. Key programs include Ruwad with BP Oman and EMDAD with PDO, creating jobs for fresh graduates. In 2024, we partnered with Chiyoda to provide Omani students with specialized training in Japan, enhancing their global expertise. We are also working with the Ministry of Education to introduce six vocational subjects for Grades 11 and 12, equipping students with industry-relevant skills early on. Looking ahead, we are expanding our Training for Employment programs, signing agreements with OXY Oman (ISHAM Program) and OLNG to train contractors and support Omanization.
JT: How does OPAL support and promote the role of women in the energy sector, and what message does the ‘You Are the Energy Award’ send about gender diversity in the industry?
Al-Naabi: Women have long played a vital role in Oman’s energy sector, which is why we launched the Enti Al Taqa Award—‘You Are the Energy’—in partnership with the Ministry of Energy & Minerals to recognize their contributions. The award’s theme and branding were unveiled in October 2024, aligning with Omani Women’s Day, during our first-ever joint industry-wide celebration with all operator members—a milestone in unifying the sector’s commitment to gender diversity. As this initiative evolves, we will reveal more details about future editions, reinforcing our belief that a diverse workforce strengthens the industry.
JT: As Oman’s energy sector grows, how does OPAL represent Oman’s energy industry on the global stage, and what opportunities exist for international collaboration, particularly with partners like Japan?
Al-Naabi: OPAL plays a key role in positioning Oman as a leader in energy and minerals through strategic partnerships and workforce development. For example, our collaboration with Chiyoda Corporation enabled Omani students to receive specialized training in Japan, enhancing technical expertise and knowledge exchange. This milestone was celebrated at a graduation ceremony attended by H.E. Eng. Mohsin Al Hadhrami, H.E. Jota Yamamoto, and Chiyoda’s Chairman, Mr. Masakazu Sakakida. Looking ahead, Oman offers significant opportunities in renewable energy, hydrogen production, and sustainable energy solutions. As the world shifts to cleaner energy, OPAL is committed to collaborating with global partners to drive innovation and maintain Oman’s leadership in this transformation.
JT: Do you have any closing remarks for our readers who are considering visiting or investing in Oman?
Al-Naabi: Oman is a thriving business hub, with the energy sector at the heart of its future. Whether you are looking for investment opportunities, strategic partnerships, or career growth, there has never been a better time to engage with this dynamic industry. At OPAL, we are committed to building an energy sector that is strong, competitive, and sustainable. We welcome partners who share this vision—because together, we can shape the future of energy in Oman and beyond.