Muscat, Oman – In a major step toward strengthening the country’s healthcare system and aligning with Oman Vision 2040, the Ministry of Health officially launched the Oman National Health Policy during a high-level ceremony held at Al Bustan Palace Hotel.
The launch event was held under the auspices of H.E. Sayyid Dr. Sultan bin Ya’arub Al Busaidi, Advisor at the Private Office, and attended by H.E. Dr. Hilal Ali Al-Sabti, Minister of Health, alongside senior officials, dignitaries, and representatives from health-related international organizations.
H.E. Dr. Ahmed Salem Al-Mandhari, Undersecretary for Health Planning and Regulation, emphasized the collaborative and participatory process that shaped the new policy. He highlighted that the policy reflects the principle of “Health for All, by All,” underlining the importance of intersectoral cooperation in addressing health determinants beyond traditional healthcare—including education, housing, and environmental conditions.
The policy adopts the Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach, aimed at improving public health outcomes, promoting health equity, and ensuring health is considered in all governmental policymaking. Dr. Al-Mandhari also cited national efforts already underway, such as initiatives on non-communicable diseases, tobacco control, school health, and community health, as well as Oman’s recent role as host of the Third Global High-Level Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance.
Dr. Hana Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, commended the policy’s alignment with the WHO’s strategic goals and regional flagship initiatives. She praised Oman’s recognition of shared responsibility in improving population health.
Dr. Qasim Al-Salmi, Director General of Planning at the Ministry, noted that the existing health policy dates back to 1992 and outlined the updated policy’s foundational principles, objectives, and alignment with national vision priorities. He pointed to the increasing role of the private sector and community in achieving long-term health outcomes.
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The updated policy focuses on key health challenges such as non-communicable diseases, aging populations, and sustainable healthcare financing. It also emphasizes improved governance, the promotion of decentralization, enhanced service quality, and the integration of digital technologies to support efficient healthcare delivery.
A panel discussion followed the launch, moderated by Dr. Yusuf Al-Farsi, and featured H.E. Dr. Al-Mandhari, H.E. Dr. Saeed Al-Lamki, and Dr. Balkhy. The session addressed critical topics, including global health trends, root causes of diseases, and strategies to strengthen primary healthcare and universal health coverage.
National health policies, officials noted, are essential for defining healthcare priorities, guiding resource allocation, and ensuring equitable access to services across urban and rural settings. The new policy is expected to serve as a foundational pillar in Oman’s journey toward a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable healthcare system.
