Oman Labour law, replaces the previous Royal Decree 35/2003 (old law). The New Law, which came into effect on 26 July 2023, brings significant changes to Oman’s labour landscape, in order to further the country’s objectives set out in it’s Vision 2040 national agenda. The key highlighted are stated below:-
- Changes to Fixed Contracts:-Fixed term contracts will no longer automatically convert to unlimited term contracts upon renewal. However, if the employment continues for more than five years, the contract term will automatically be treated as unlimited.
- Restructured Leave Provisions:-
- Special leave:-Employees can now request a special leave without pay, subject to an employer’s consent.
- Paternity leave:-Paternity leave of 7 calendar days for male employees.
- Sick leave:-Employee’s are entitled to paid sick leave from 10 weeks up to 182 calendar day subject to meeting certain conditions.
- Maternity leave and unpaid childcare leave:-Maternity leave has been increased from 58 days to 98 days and additional “unpaid childcare leave” that can be taken for up to 1 year.