Muscat – A new regulation governing the employment of domestic and similar workers has been issued in Oman, coming into effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette. The regulation aims to safeguard the rights of workers, enhance working conditions, and align employment practices with Oman’s Labour Law (Royal Decree No. 53/2023) and the country’s broader social and economic development goals.

This new decision replaces Ministerial Decision No. 189/2004 and cancels outdated forms related to the recruitment of non-Omani workers. Employers and workers are granted a three-month grace period to regularize their status in accordance with the updated requirements.

The regulation covers a wide range of roles including household workers, nannies, private drivers, gardeners, agricultural workers, residential building guards, home nurses, cooks, and animal care workers such as camel and livestock breeders.

The rights outlined in the regulation represent the minimum entitlements for workers. Any agreement that contradicts or reduces these rights will be considered null and void, though contracts may offer better terms to the worker.

More details can be found, on the MoL’s official X handle, and website www.mol.gov.om