Muscat – A new law has been introduced mandating a 5% employment quota for qualified persons with disabilities across government entities and private sector employers with 40 or more workers.

Issued under Royal Decree No 92/2025, the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities aims to ensure persons with disabilities are integrated into the workforce and receive equal rights, benefits and opportunities as other employees.

The legislation underscores Oman’s commitment to promoting fairness, accessibility, and dignity in all aspects of public and professional life. It establishes comprehensive measures to protect the rights of persons with disabilities and create an inclusive environment across the social, educational, economic and professional sectors.

Article 47 of the law mandates the relevant authority to monitor employment data related to persons with disabilities and to coordinate with the Ministry of Social Development for registration and follow-up. Under Article 48, all public and private entities with 40 or more workers must allocate at least 5% of available jobs to qualified persons with disabilities nominated by the relevant authority.

Employers are required to provide equal pay, promotion opportunities and workplace treatment to employees appointed under this provision. Institutions must also ensure that reasonable facilities are in place so that persons with disabilities can perform their duties effectively. The competent minister, with Cabinet approval, may raise the quota in the future.

The law also provides for the establishment of a National Committee for Persons with Disabilities, chaired by the Minister of Social Development and including representatives of relevant government entities. The committee will prepare national strategies, propose legislation, oversee implementation of rehabilitation and employment programmes, and monitor Oman’s compliance with international conventions on disability rights. It will also coordinate with local and international bodies to advance awareness, prevention and inclusion efforts.

The committee is entrusted to manage funds allocated to disability-related initiatives and to receive donations and grants under regulated conditions. It will also review quality standards of services and programmes, identify barriers to inclusion, and propose solutions to promote social and professional integration.

Violation of Articles 14 and 15 of the law, which guarantee the right to personal freedom, safety and protection from violence or abuse, are punishable by imprisonment of six months to two years or a fine of RO1,000 to RO3,000, or both. Repeat offenders face doubled penalties.