Amongst the 191 countries worldwide, Oman is one of the most-improved nations over the last 40 years. Royal Haskoning has been active in the region since early 2000 and has recently underlined its further commitment to the Sultanate by opening up an office in Muscat. Since this was established in April 2010, our number of permanent staff have grown. Furthermore, Royal Haskoning staff are working on several project sites throughout the country like Sohar, Sidab and Duqm. Business prospects in Oman look promising.Oman Seas ofOpportunitiesOman General Manager, Martijn van den Berk, spent seven years in the UAE, and compares the two neighbouring countries; "Most of the work we carry out is for the Oman Government, which is interesting and challenging at the same time, Martijn elaborates. "The fact that some of our current projects, like for example the development of Duqm Port has the continuous interest of the Ministry and requires a large variety of port planning and engineering expertise, allows us to share our capabilities with senior client contacts on an almost day to day basis. This has contributed to Royal Haskoning being recognised as an experienced consultancy that delivers quality projects in the Sultanate", he added.Of particular note is the high level of organisation of new projects run by the Government. "Oman has adopted a very transparent system for tendering and awarding contracts, including online advertisement of competition and bid prices, which allows for regular benchmarking of our services in the local market", Martijn explains.Another element that is firmly embedded in the Oman business environment is the so-called process of 'Omanisation'. This implies that it is mandatory for companies doing business in Oman, to hire and train locals, a serious attempt by the Government to develop a sustainable Omani work force 10-15 years from today. >> 18rangeinternational

A wise decision so it seems, since potential unemployment of people between the ages of 20-35 is currently recognised as a serious problem for most of the Gulf countries."This process of Omanisation, which provides interesting job opportunities for locals, strengthens the enthusiasm and dedication of young Omani's to further develop themselves, this is also recognised within our own local organisation, where we have employed several Omani's in disciplines ranging from secretarial and administrative support to civil engineers. They receive training on the job and in some cases also in the UK. This commitment emphasises Royal Haskoning's long term commitment to the Sultanate of Oman." Martijn adds.Martijn van den Berkm.vandenberk@haskoning.ae+971 50 348 7240""Image courtesy of Sohar Port Special ProjectsAn element that is firmly embedded in the Omani business environment is the process of Omanisation. Martijn van den Berk, General Manager - Royal Haskoning Omanrangeinternational >> 19