Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Oman’s Ministry of Labour has introduced comprehensive reforms for domestic workers under Ministerial Decision No. 574/2025. The new law provides a clear legal framework to define working conditions, formalise employment, and strengthen worker protection across the sector.
Replacement of Old Regulation
This decision replaces the outdated Ministerial Decision No. 189/2004 and cancels old recruitment forms for non-Omani workers. Employers and employees have a three-month grace period to adjust to the new requirements and regularise their employment practices.
Coverage of the Law
The regulation applies to various professions including household staff, drivers, nannies, gardeners, residential guards, home nurses, cooks, agricultural workers, and animal caretakers. These roles are recognised as essential contributors to Oman’s domestic labour sector.
Working Hours and Rest Periods
Domestic workers may not work more than 12 hours a day and must receive at least eight hours of rest, excluding meal and break times. Employers can request up to two extra hours of paid overtime with written consent. Each worker is entitled to one paid day off per week, with double pay or a compensatory day if they work on that day.
Leave and Payment Rights
Workers are guaranteed a minimum of 21 days of paid annual leave and up to 30 days of paid sick leave per year with a valid medical certificate. Wages must be paid within seven days, through bank transfer or signed receipt, and deductions are allowed only in specific cases and cannot exceed 25% of total wages.
Worker Protection and Employer Obligations
The law prohibits forced labour, harassment, and confiscation of passports. Workers under 21 cannot be employed. Employers cannot charge recruitment fees or assign tasks outside the licensed role. They must provide adequate housing, food, health insurance, and transport, and maintain employment records for at least one year after the contract ends.
Electronic Contract Registration
All employment contracts must be registered electronically through the Ministry’s platform to enhance oversight, transparency, and proper monitoring of the domestic work sector.
Termination Rights and Penalties
Workers may terminate employment without notice in cases of abuse, fraud, or wage delays. Employers remain responsible for end-of-service benefits and repatriation. Violations may result in fines from OMR 50 to 500 per affected worker, and legal fees for disputes are covered by the law.
Alignment with Oman Vision 2040
The Ministry confirmed that these reforms align with Royal Decree No. 53/2023 and Oman Vision 2040, aiming to modernise the labour market, promote ethical employment standards, and ensure a fair and safe work environment for domestic workers.
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