
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman joined the countries of the world on Tuesday in marking International Nurses Day, observed annually on 12 May.
The occasion honours the humanitarian and professional roles performed by male and female nurses in strengthening the health system and elevating the quality of therapeutic and preventive services, as they represent a fundamental pillar of comprehensive healthcare.
This year's celebration underscores the importance of investing in nursing cadres, qualifying them, and empowering them to keep pace with modern medical and technical developments. Such efforts contribute to enhancing the efficiency of health services and achieving sustainable health development targets.
Statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate that the number of nurses working in the health sector in the Sultanate of Oman exceeded 24,000 by the end of December 2025. These professionals operate across various government and private health institutions, performing pivotal roles in providing healthcare at all levels, in addition to their contributions to health awareness programs, community care, and emergency response.
Over the past years, the nursing sector in the Sultanate of Oman has witnessed significant development in the fields of academic qualification, professional training, and specialised sub-specialties. This progress is supported by educational and training programs implemented by health and academic institutions, which enhance the readiness of national competencies and their ability to handle various health challenges in accordance with international best practices.
The nursing workforce remains a primary partner in the journey of developing the health sector, given their continuous efforts in patient care, improving quality of life, and promoting the safety of the healthy community. This role embodies the noble humanitarian values and the exalted mission of the nursing profession.