Muscat – H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed bin Awad Al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, has issued Ministerial Decision No 154/2026 introducing a new regulatory framework to govern the management and operations of childcare homes in Oman.

Under the decision, childcare homes will provide integrated services to beneficiaries, including accommodation, healthcare, psychological support, education and recreational activities. Specialised residential units will also be established for children with disabilities and equipped with the necessary medical facilities.

The regulation defines eligible beneficiaries as children born in Oman to unknown parents, children of unknown fathers and Omani mothers under specific legal conditions, as well as orphans and children deprived of family care. Exceptions may be granted in emergency cases with the approval of the competent authority.

The decision also sets out governance mechanisms, including the preparation of individual files for each beneficiary containing personal data, documentation and social reports. It also introduces clear rules of conduct within the homes, requiring beneficiaries to respect staff and fellow residents and to safeguard the facilities.

In addition, the regulation outlines transition and exit pathways for beneficiaries. These include transfer to youth care homes upon reaching a specified age, placement with foster families, or reintegration with biological families following legal rulings. Continued care and support may also be provided for persons with disabilities beyond the standard age limits.

The framework further establishes guidelines for volunteering in childcare homes. Volunteers must meet specific eligibility criteria, including legal capacity, good conduct and a clean criminal record. They are required to adhere to strict regulations, such as maintaining confidentiality and obtaining prior approval before carrying out any activities.

Violations of the volunteering rules may result in penalties ranging from RO100 to RO500, or suspension of volunteer activities.