diversify the economy away from a dependence on oil. In a speech in January 2019, the new Sultan said that “the achievement of the objectives of Vision 2040 relies on knowing and understanding the link between the social, economic, and cultural changes in Oman and the drivers of global change.” Therefore, one of the objectives of the vision is to work toward complying with international standards and agreements in these areas. There have also been changes to residence and employment laws, notably, the abolishment of Article 11 of the Foreigners’ Residence Law. This legal provision had obliged workers to obtain a no-objection certificate from their employer to move from one job to another within the private sector. With its withdrawal, foreign nationals will be able to freely change jobs within the country, without permissions or a lay-in period. Omani media’s reactions to the new administration The administrative changes have been positively received by the Omani media. Speaking about the positive reception of the structural changes, Turki bin Ali al Balushi, an Omani journalist wrote in a report in The Arabian Gulf States Institute in Washington: “The adoption of these new policies does not signal that these are the last decisions that will be made. More important changes, which many Omanis await, may be yet to come.”5 Salem bin Hamad al Jawhari, Omani journalist and researcher in international affairs, also elaborated: There are many investment opportunities in Oman’s Vision 2040, which is based on the pillars of the economy and investment in order to have very important returns, through which Oman can achieve many developmental and investment programs and implement development plans that include economic, industrial, agricultural and mineral wealth. The Vision 2040 builds on the principles of citizenship and genuine Omani identity to modernize the educational ecosystem, support scientific research and innovation, develop healthcare regulations and services and lay the foundations for social well-being and relevant basic services for all segments of society”.6 While His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s ruling style has been calm and deliberate, the steps he has taken during his first 100 days as head of the state have occurred quickly from the perspective of Oman’s citizens. Ali Al Matani, a columnist, says: 5 Turki bin Ali al Balushi. (2020). ‘Oman restructures government in bid to revive economy’. The Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.
6 Personal interview. 148
