Oman Labour Law

Royal Decree 53/2023 highlights with official Ministry of Labour context.

Country: Oman
Jurisdiction: Sultanate of Oman private sector
Primary law: Royal Decree 53/2023 promulgating the Labour Law

Working hours

Royal Decree 53/2023 sets maximum actual working hours at 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, excluding one hour per day for rest and eating, with continuous work not exceeding 6 hours. During Ramadan, maximum hours for Muslim workers are 6 hours per day or 30 hours per week.

Leave

Workers are entitled to annual leave with gross wage of not less than 30 days. Leave is generally taken according to work needs and not before six months of service. Unused leave may be retained up to a balance of 30 days unless non-use is due to work interest. Workers should take leave at least once every two years for a period of no less than 30 days.

Employment contracts

The Labour Law governs private-sector contracts, Omanisation, and employment of non-Omani workers. Non-Omani workers are described as entitled to a return ticket for leave agreed in the contract. Always keep the signed Arabic/English contract and Ministry approvals.

Wages and employee rights

Wage protection, overtime consent and premiums, weekly rest, and dispute procedures are regulated under the new law and subsequent ministerial decisions (including wage-protection measures). Use Ministry of Labour channels for complaints and clarifications.