Sunday 12 / October / 2025
MUSCAT: In a move that underscores Oman’s deep commitment to social justice and human dignity, the Ministry of Labour has issued a Ministerial Decision enacting the Executive Regulation governing the work of domestic workers and those in similar professions.
The decision represents a significant step in strengthening the legal and regulatory framework for a vital workforce that supports the stability of Omani families and contributes to the country’s social and economic development.
The regulation aligns with the pillars of Oman Vision 2040, which places the human being at the centre of development and emphasises the creation of an organised and balanced labour market.
By ensuring justice between employers and workers, the regulation guarantees the rights and obligations of both parties within a safe, stable, and humane working environment.
The provisions of the regulation apply to employers and workers across a wide range of domestic professions, including domestic workers, child caregivers, private drivers, security guards, agricultural workers, gardeners, health aides, private nurses, cooks, camel and livestock keepers, and horse grooms.
Among the key rights and obligations introduced are:
Weekly rest and annual leave: Workers are entitled to one paid weekly rest day and annual leave with full salary, with compensation for unused leave upon termination.
Timely wage payments: Salaries must be paid on due dates, with a gradual shift toward digital payments to enhance transparency and reduce disputes.
Adequate living conditions: Employers must provide suitable accommodation, healthcare, and proper meals.
Protection of human dignity: The regulation prohibits the retention of personal documents, restriction of movement, or any form of forced labour.
The decision also introduces a clear framework for organising the contractual relationship, enhancing the status of domestic workers while ensuring fairness and accountability.
This regulatory move reflects the state’s broader orientation toward developing the work environment and strengthening legal and social protections for all workers in the Sultanate, without discrimination.
From a social and economic perspective, the regulation is expected to strengthen the stability of Omani families, improve social efficiency, and reduce legal and administrative disputes in the recruitment market. By gradually integrating domestic workers into the national economy through modern digital platforms, the decision fosters a more organised and transparent labour sector.
At the international level, the issuance of this regulation strengthens Oman’s position as a state committed to global labour standards and International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. It enhances the Sultanate’s reputation as a fair and safe work destination while consolidating balanced relations with labour-sending countries.
To ensure effective implementation, the Ministry of Labour has established monitoring mechanisms and awareness programmes aimed at families and employers. These initiatives are designed to promote a culture of mutual rights and obligations, embedding the principle of shared responsibility in maintaining a humane and just work environment.
A ministry statement said, “The issuance of this regulation is not merely an administrative measure; it is a civilised step that demonstrates Oman’s belief that social justice must be practiced on the ground and that preserving human dignity is the foundation of social stability and the state’s reputation, both domestically and internationally.”
Through this landmark decision, the Sultanate reaffirms that placing human beings at the centre of development, and upholding justice and mutual respect, is essential to building a more prosperous, fair, and equitable future for all.
