The Ministry of Labor of Oman has called on all employers to strictly adhere to the Occupational Safety and Health Regulation, emphasizing the importance of implementing safety measures to reduce the risk of workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses.
The ministry stated that these regulations are designed to protect workers, foster safer workplaces, and promote a culture of accountability and compliance across all sectors in the Sultanate.
Citing Article 13 of the regulation, the ministry reiterated that employers are legally required to notify the relevant department or section head within 24 hours of any confirmed workplace accident, injury, or work-related illness. This includes incidents involving employees covered under the Social Protection Fund, ensuring transparency and timely action in response to safety breaches.
Officials underscored that maintaining high occupational safety standards is crucial for safeguarding employee well-being and sustaining productivity. Failure to comply may result in administrative and legal action in accordance with Omani labor laws.
In a related development, the Sultanate of Oman has also introduced a new directive aimed at strengthening the participation of the local workforce in the private sector. According to a report by Atheer Newspaper, all foreign-owned companies operating in Oman are now required to hire at least one Omani employee within a year of starting commercial operations.
The mandate, issued under Ministerial Resolution No. 411/2025 by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), adds Article (12) bis to the executive regulations of the Foreign Capital Investment Law.
Under this new rule, each foreign-owned business must employ an Omani national registered with the Social Protection Fund. The objective, officials said, is to promote Omanisation, support local talent development, and align the private sector with national employment goals.
Existing foreign enterprises that have been operational for over a year must regularize their employment structure within six months of the regulation’s enforcement. The adjustment must be completed either at the time of commercial registration renewal or when applying for new or renewed work permits.
The ministry clarified that any conflicting provisions have been repealed and confirmed that the regulation took effect the day after its publication in the Official Gazette. These initiatives, the ministry added, reinforce Oman’s commitment to labor safety, transparency, and equitable economic growth.
