New Omani Law for Domestic Workers: No 12+ Hour Shifts, No Passport Holding, and Health Insurance is a Must
Long hours, no break? Not anymore — Oman’s new labour law is changing how domestic work is done.
A brand-new regulation has officially been issued in Oman to protect the rights of domestic and similar workers, with tougher rules, clearer standards, and stronger worker protections than ever before.
Under Ministerial Decision No. 574/2025, the regulation comes into effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette, replacing laws that have been in place since 2004. Employers and workers now have three months to update their contracts and adjust to the new requirements.
Who’s Covered
The new law applies to everyone working in or around private homes, including:
- Domestic workers and nannies
- Private drivers and gardeners
- Home nurses, cooks, and health aides
- Animal and livestock care workers such as camel herders and horse grooms
- Building guards and agricultural workers
Key Worker Rights
The regulation clearly states that the listed rights are the minimum standard — meaning no contract can reduce them. Employers can offer more, but never less. Here’s what’s changing:
1. No Forced Labour or Harassment
Employers are explicitly banned from imposing any form of forced labour, violence, or harassment.
2. Passports Stay With the Worker
Employers cannot hold a worker’s passport or ID unless the worker gives written consent.
3. No Underage Employment
Domestic workers must be 21 years or older — employing anyone younger is illegal.
4. Recruitment Must Be Licensed
Only employers with a license from the Ministry of Labour can recruit workers. Charging workers fees for recruitment or transfers is strictly prohibited.
5. Respect and Dignity Come First
Employers must treat workers fairly and respectfully, providing:
- Safe, clean, and air-conditioned accommodation
- Proper food and supplies
- No dangerous or demeaning tasks
6. Health and Safety
All workers must be covered by health insurance paid for by the employer.
7. Work Hours and Rest
- Maximum 12 working hours per day (with breaks for meals and rest).
- At least one full rest day per week (with extra pay or a replacement day if worked).
- Overtime pay is required if extra hours are agreed upon.
8. Paid Leave
- 21 days of paid annual leave every year.
- 30 days of paid sick leave (with medical proof).
9. End-of-Service Benefits
When the job ends, workers are entitled to:
- Half a month’s wage for every year of service (after two years).
- All payments and benefits must be settled within five days of the last working day.
10. Fair Termination Rules
- Employers can’t fire workers unfairly or withhold gratuity unless there’s serious misconduct.
- Workers can quit without penalty if unpaid for over two months, mistreated, or assaulted.
11. Return and Repatriation
Employers must pay for the worker’s return to their home country once the contract ends, unless the worker leaves early without a valid reason.
Disputes and Enforcement
- Workers are exempt from court fees if they file legal complaints.
- Employers must cooperate with Ministry inspections and investigations.
- Fines for violations range from OMR 50 to OMR 500 per worker, depending on the offence.
Why It Matters
This update is one of the biggest steps Oman has taken to modernize its labour laws and align domestic work with national labour standards, promoting fairness, safety, and dignity for every worker in the country.
Bottom line: whether you’re an employer or a worker, this new law changes the game — protecting rights, setting clear rules, and shaping a fairer future for domestic employment in Oman.
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