Muscat – More than 11,000 expatriate workers were found violating labour regulations in Oman during the first half of 2026, with nearly 3,000 deported as the Ministry of Labour stepped up inspections aimed at regulating the employment market and protecting workers’ rights.

An executive summary released by the ministry showed that 11,172 non-Omani workers were caught violating labour laws during the six-month period.

Inspection teams carried out 6,707 visits, while 4,680 cases were referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal action. A total of 2,944 workers were deported, according to the ministry.

The figures showed an overall compliance rate of 69.5% among establishments covered by inspection activities.

The ministry also recorded 272 employment opportunities pursuant to settlement decisions, highlighting the wider role of inspections in addressing labour market irregularities and supporting compliance with employment requirements.

The Ministry of Labour earlier signed an agreement with Security and Safety Services Company to strengthen monitoring of compliance with the Labour Law, particularly provisions governing the employment of non-Omani workers.