Thursday 23 / April / 2026
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has achieved a new global health milestone, reflecting the strength of its healthcare system and the effectiveness of its strategic policies. Recent data reveals that healthy life expectancy at birth rose to 66.07 years by the end of 2023, surpassing both regional and global averages. This indicator measures the number of years an individual lives in good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities, distinguishing it from traditional life expectancy which focuses solely on total lifespan.
According to an assessment by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington, Oman outperformed the global average of 63.1 years and the Middle East and North Africa average of 62.7 years. An analytical review of this trajectory highlights the resilience of the national healthcare system; after a slight global decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, Oman quickly returned to an upward trend, rising from 62.74 years in 2021 to 65.51 years in 2022, before reaching its current level.
This progress places the Sultanate on track to achieve the targets of the first phase of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to raise healthy life expectancy to 67 years by 2030. The achievement reflects a successful strategic shift from curative to preventive care, bolstered by the expanded use of modern technologies and artificial intelligence for early disease detection and service efficiency.
Health indicators further emphasise the fundamental role of individuals in sustaining these gains through proactive daily behaviours. Adopting a prevention-based approach—including regular health screenings, adherence to immunisation programmes, and healthy lifestyles focused on nutrition and physical activity—is considered essential. Mental health and community environmental responsibility also serve as key pillars in this comprehensive national vision that prioritises a healthier, more productive, and fulfilling life for all citizens.
