Minister Emphasizes Respecting Domestic Workers’ Rights: What This Means for Employers and Businesses in Oman
The Minister of Labour addressed the rights of domestic workers during a press conference on Wednesday, emphasizing that these rights are established according to both local and international standards, and must be respected by all.
The minister highlighted Decision 574/2025, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of employers and domestic workers in Oman. The regulation aims to ensure fair treatment, safety, and mutual respect within households.
Employer Responsibilities
Article 13 requires employers to treat domestic workers with respect, safeguarding their dignity, safety, and health. Employers must provide suitable food, appropriate accommodation, and necessary supplies for the agreed tasks. Assigning duties that could jeopardize a worker’s safety, health, or dignity is strictly prohibited.
Accommodation Standards
Article 14 sets clear standards for domestic workers’ living conditions. Residences must be well-ventilated, adequately lit, air-conditioned, and equipped with secure doors, windows, and ceilings. Each living space should have comfortable bedding, storage for personal belongings, and a clean, safe, and ventilated bathroom. Workers are also expected to keep their quarters clean.
Transportation, Health, and Records
Articles 15 and 16 oblige employers to provide free transportation for workers who live outside the employer’s household and to cover their health insurance. Article 17 mandates that employers maintain a file for each worker containing identification copies, leave records, wage deductions, and other employment details. This file must be retained for at least one year after the end of the worker’s service and made available to the Ministry upon request.
Worker Duties
Article 18 details the responsibilities of domestic workers, including respecting the religion, customs, and moral values of Omani society. Workers must treat employers and their families with respect, especially children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. They are expected to perform their duties diligently, protect property, maintain confidentiality, and obey lawful instructions.
This comprehensive framework seeks to balance the rights and duties of both domestic workers and their employers, reinforcing a respectful and safe working environment.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The new comprehensive regulations for domestic workers in Oman signal a shift toward enhanced labor rights and protections, creating a more structured and transparent framework for employer-worker relations. For businesses and households employing domestic help, this means increased operational responsibilities and compliance costs, but also an opportunity to foster ethical work environments that could improve worker retention and satisfaction. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should consider opportunities in services that support compliance, such as quality accommodation solutions, health insurance plans, and legal advisory tailored to domestic labor.
