Starting in 2009, this day has been designated to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women to the development and progress of Oman. Omani Women’s Day is a testament to the continuous efforts made by the Omani government to promote and support gender equality, women empowerment, and women’s rights in the country. Among the many events and activities that take place on this day, the most significant is the official ceremony where a group of exceptional women are honored for their notable and remarkable achievements. These women come from different backgrounds and fields, spanning from business and entrepreneurship to arts and science, and their stories inspire and motivate both men and women in Oman. To celebrate and honor Omani Women’s Day, we have compiled some important and interesting facts about Omani women and the progress that has been made in promoting gender equality and women’s rights in the country. October 17th is also known as Oman’s National Day, making it a double celebration! Omani Women’s Day is a reminder that women are crucial to the development and progress of Oman. In Oman, women have equal access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The constitution of Oman guarantees equal rights and opportunities for both men and women. Oman’s Supreme Council for Women was established in 2001 to support and ensure the participation of women in the development of the country. Women hold 17% of seats in the parliament of Oman. In 2016, the Omani government launched the National Strategy for the Advancement of Women, which aims to enhance and expand women’s role in the development process. Omani women have made significant progress in different sectors, including education, health, and business. In 2019, H.E. Shaikha Aisha bint Khalfan Al Siyabiyah became the first Omani woman and Arab woman to summit Mount Everest. Oman is also one of the few countries in the Arab region that does not have a law that gives men the right to unilaterally divorce their wives. In 2020, Oman announced a law that allows women to become judges for the first time in the country’s history. Women in Oman are actively involved in promoting and preserving the country’s culture and heritage through arts, music, and literature. Oman has a Women’s Craft Center that supports and empowers women working in traditional handicrafts and arts. Empowering and supporting women in the workforce is a key focus of the Omani government, with many initiatives and programs in place to promote women’s entrepreneurship and self-employment. Oman also has an all-women’s police force, which is the first of its kind in the Gulf region. Omani women have made significant strides in the field of education, with primary and secondary school enrollment rates reaching 100%. In higher education, women make up 49% of the total student population. Omani women have excelled in different fields of science and technology, with an increasing number of women pursuing degrees in these fields. Some notable Omani women who have made strides in their respective fields include Dr. Sharifa bint Khalfan Al Yahyai, the first Omani woman to receive a Ph.D. in Arabic literature, and Dr. Nadia bint Abdullah Al Jabri, the first Omani woman to become an orthodontist. Omani women also make significant contributions in the field of rock art conservation and preservation. Omani Women’s Day is a reminder of the achievements and progress made by women in Oman, and also serves as a platform to address challenges and barriers that women still face in the country. Perspectives and discussions on gender equality, women’s rights, and women empowerment take center stage during the various events and activities held on Omani Women’s Day. Women in Oman have shown that they are capable, empowered, and integral to the progress and development of their country. Omani Women’s Day serves as a celebration of their strength, resilience, and achievements. With continuous efforts and initiatives in place, Oman is steadily moving towards becoming a more gender-equal society, where both men and women have equal opportunities and rights. Omani Women’s Day is not only a celebration for the women of Oman but a reminder to the world that women’s progress and empowerment is crucial for the development and progress of any society. So let us join hands and celebrate Omani Women’s Day, honoring the inspiring, fearless, and remarkable women of Oman! 
Celebrating Omani Women’s Day: Empowering Women, Developing Communities
