On April 9, 2025, the Ministry of Health officially launched the National Health Policy during a high-level ceremony attended by H.E. Sayyid Dr. Sultan Yarub Al Busaidi, the Advisor at the Private Office; H.E. Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, the Minister of Health; H.E. Dr. Hanan Balkhy, the Regional Director of the World Health Organization (WHO); as well as several ministers, undersecretaries, and directorate generals.

The launch of this policy marks a significant milestone, as it replaces the previous national health policy established in 1992. The new policy comes at a critical time to align Oman’s healthcare system with the aspirations of Oman Vision 2040.

Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Mandhari, the Undersecretary for Health Planning and Regulation, opened the event with a keynote speech emphasizing the pivotal role of the new policy in advancing health sector development and achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040. He highlighted the policy’s adoption of the “Health for All by All” approach, underscoring the shared responsibility of promoting health across all sectors and stakeholders.

Dr. Hanan Balkhy commended the Ministry’s efforts, noting that the policy adheres to the World Health Organization’s standards. She praised the policy for its recognition that public health is a collaborative effort and a shared responsibility among all sectors of society.

Dr. Qasim bin Ahmed Al Salmi, the Director General of Planning, presented the key components of the policy, which include its guiding principles and a comprehensive model designed to address demographic and epidemiological shifts, advocate for sustainable health financing, and integrate digital technologies to enhance healthcare delivery.

The National Health Policy consists of 5 strategic objectives, 13 basic pillars, 14 strategic enablers, and 21 strategic actions that were all formulated as a result of immense collaboration between the Ministry of Health and multiple sectors and stakeholders. The policy will serve as a strategic framework, guiding the development of future policies and regulations not only within the health sector but also across allied and partner sectors, ensuring a unified and holistic approach to health in the Sultanate of Oman.