Programme Overview
The National Program for Empowering Omani Mid-Level Management in the Private Sector (Etimad) stems from the attention of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik – may God protect and preserve him – towards the development of human capital and the preparation of promising national leaders in both the public and private sectors. This initiative aligns with future needs and is designed to address the rapid changes the world is witnessing, in alignment with Oman Vision 2040. The program targets 100 mid-level leaders from the private sector, offering a comprehensive six-month learning journey that includes specialized learning modules, a leadership camp, online learning, and professional coaching sessions. Participants are partially seconded throughout the program to ensure maximum engagement and impact. Designed in alignment with the latest leadership development methodologies, the program integrates specialized coaching, simulation-based practical workshops, “Meet the Leader” sessions, and collaborative learning projects. It enhances participants’ capabilities in self-leadership and leading others, institutional leadership, financial and entrepreneurial mindset, business simulation, and the future of business — from innovation to impact — combined with field-based experiential learning. The program prepares leaders to drive sustainable institutional impact and achieve measurable strategic results.
Target Audience
Middle Management in the Private Sector, Including Managers, Department Heads, and Equivalent Positions.
Programme Vision
To cultivate a new generation of empowered Omani leaders in the private sector, equipped to drive sustainable growth and navigate future challenges in alignment with Oman Vision2040
Language
English
Programme Message
Empowering Omani leadership through a high-level leadership programmme.
Strategic Programme Objectives
- Empowering Omanis to assume senior leadership positions
- Enhancing mid-leaders ability to achieve performance excellence and institutional objectives efficiently and effectively, thereby strengthening the local economy and supporting the realization of Oman Vision 2040.
- Developing leadership and supervisory skills to increase productivity in the private sector
Programme Dates
- 6 Months
Participants:
- 100 Participants
Programme Application Requirements
Applicants must be Omani nationals and work in either in the private sector/state owned enterprises or be an entrepreneur
Applicants must submit non-objection letter from their employer
Applicants must hold at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent
Applicants must have a minimum of ten years of work experience, including at least five (5) years in a leadership position
Applicants must have mid-level leadership experience, such as managing a department or a team.
Applicants must be Proficient in English at an advanced level (speaking and writing)
Applicants must be registered with the Ministry of Labor
Applicants, if an entrepreneur, must be registered with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Riyada)
Applicants must not be older than 45 years
Those who were previously nominated for the program but did not join the previous cohorts are eligible to apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target audience of the “Etimad” program?
The “Etimad” Program targets employees working in the private sector and entrepreneurs.
Where will the in-person learning modules be held?
The in-person learning modules will be delivered at the Royal Academy of Management (Muscat), except for the first module, which will be held in one of the governorates.
How long is the period during which the applicant must fully dedicate themselves to the program?
Participants are required to fully commit to the program for a total of 17 working days, distributed across different periods. During these days, participants must take leave from their workplace in coordination with their employer. The remaining days will be delivered through online learning and will not require leave from work.
What will be the learning approach in “Etimad”?
The “Etimad” learning journey includes in-person and practical learning modules, online learning, and the implementation of real-world projects within the targeted sectors and the companies to which participants belong.
What commitments does the individual undertake in return for benefiting from the program?
The program requires full commitment from applicants, including full attendance, completion of the learning journey, and cooperation in post-graduation follow-up activities.
What documents and information must be attached during the registration process?
A letter of undertaking confirming that the employer has no objection to their employee joining the program and commits to releasing them for eighteen (18) days upon acceptance must be submitted. The applicant must print the letter template, have it officially stamped by the concerned entity, and re-upload it. Entrepreneurs must attach a membership certificate from the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA).
Will the candidate undergo any assessments before being accepted into the program?
To ensure the applicant’s suitability and readiness for the program, they will undergo several assessments in areas such as English language proficiency, general aptitude, personal skills, managerial skills, and others.
What will the nature of training be in “Etimad”?
The “Etimad” training journey includes:
In-person learning modules
Workshops
Online learning modules
Individual online assessments
Applied learning project sessions
Leader engagement sessions
Coaching and mentoring sessions
Virtual reality components
Is the program open to small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs to benefit from “Etimad”?
Yes, 10% of seats have been allocated to owners of small and medium enterprises to join the program.
When will registration open for “Etimad”?
From 15 March to 2 April 2026.
What are the eligibility requirements for applicants applying to the “Etimad” program for middle management?
Eligibility Criteria:
The applicant must be an Omani national working in the private sector or an entrepreneur.
The applicant must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university. Entrepreneurs must hold at least a Higher Diploma.
A minimum of seven (7) years of work experience is required, including at least three (3) years in a leadership position.
The applicant must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency (spoken and written).
The applicant must have mid-level leadership experience (e.g., managing a department or team).
The applicant’s data must be registered with the Ministry of Labour.
Entrepreneurs must be registered with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority.
Individuals who were previously nominated but did not join the first or second cohort are eligible to apply.
Nominations for private sector employees must be submitted through their employers.
How can one apply for the program?
through the Royal Academy of Management’s Programs and Initiatives Registration Platform: https://register.ram.gov.om/home
Will private sector companies bear any financial cost for their employees’ participation in the program?
No; The Academy will fully fund and manage the “Etimad” program.
