Muscat – The Oman American Business Council (OABC) – the sultanate’s largest international business networking group and the official affiliate of the US Chamber of Commerce in Oman – in partnership with Al Tamimi & Company, the region’s leading law firm, hosted an informatinal session on the Omani Labour Law.

The event took place on Tuesday at the Intercontinental Hotel Muscat, and brought together over 200 esteemed legal professionals, executives and business leaders to discuss the significant changes introduced by the new labour law, according to a press release.

The experts provided valuable insights and guidance on the implementation of the newly announced labour law, ensuring that employers and employees left well-informed and equipped to navigate the evolving legal landscape.

The session included a dynamic Q&A session that provided participants with the opportunity to seek clarification on specific aspects of the labour law.

“OABC gathered over 200 professionals from every business sector in Oman, to receive clear, highly beneficial advice on a very important aspect; the new labour law, which impacts all businesses in Oman,” said Ali Daud, president and chairman emeritus of OABC. “These sorts of experiences and events set the organisation apart here in Oman, and add incredible value for our members.”

“Reforms such as this new labour law show the government’s support of the country’s workforce and its ongoing drive towards continued development,” said Fouad Eid, vice president of OABC and VP of Champion X, an American company.

“At OABC, our membership consists of both local and foreign companies, and individuals from the public and private sector, who eagerly attended this event to better understand the new law’s implementation,” Eid added.

Abdelhaleem Mohammed Ahmed, senior counsel and head of litigation – Oman, Al Tamimi & Company, said, “The new labour law overhauls the legal framework in respect of the employment relationship in the private sector and introduces significant changes to the old legal framework. The new law seeks to address changes in the work environment, align Oman labor relations with international best practices, and it is the most significant amendment to the Oman labour legislation since 2003.”

He said, “The new law provides employers with additional rights for terminating employment relationships and introduces new and additional obligations on employers and employees alike. Employers should be aware that they are required to comply with the new law by January 25, 2024.”

Rebecca Olson, chief executive officer of OABC, said, “Since the day the labour law was announced, OABC members have been asking for this session to clarify aspects regarding its implementation, and we are proud to present the topic with our corporate member, Al Tamimi & Company. This is part of OABC’s mission, to keep member companies in the know about changes, opportunities, and developments that impact their business in Oman.”