Domestic Worker Rights in Oman (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
Sourced from Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Domestic workers in Oman (housemaids, drivers, cooks, gardeners) have specific legal protections:
- Written contract: Domestic workers must have a written employment contract specifying wages, duties, working hours, and rest days.
- Wages: Wages must be paid monthly as agreed in the contract. The employer cannot withhold or reduce wages without legal justification.
- Rest day: Domestic workers are entitled to at least 1 rest day per week.
- Passport retention: Employers are strictly prohibited from confiscating the domestic worker's passport.
- Abuse protection: Physical, verbal, or sexual abuse of domestic workers is a criminal offence under the Penal Code (Royal Decree 7/2018). Workers can call the ROP at 9999.
- Recruitment fees: Workers should not be charged recruitment fees — these are the employer's responsibility.
When does it apply?
- You are a domestic worker in Oman (housemaid, driver, cook, nanny, etc.).
- Your employer is withholding your passport, wages, or rest day.
- You are experiencing abuse or exploitation in your employer's household.
What to Do If You Are a Domestic Worker in Oman Being Abused or Not Paid
- If your passport is confiscated, report it to the Royal Oman Police — this is illegal.
- If you are being abused, call the ROP emergency line (9999) or contact your embassy.
- File a labour complaint with the Ministry of Labour for wage disputes.
- Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance and shelter if needed.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not run away without reporting — leaving without filing a complaint can result in an absconding charge.
- Do not sign documents you do not understand — ask for a translation.
- Do not accept work without a written contract — you need it to prove your rights.
About Immigration Rights in Oman
If you live in Oman on a visa, the framework is the Foreigners Residence Law (Royal Decree 16/1995), administered by the Royal Oman Police (ROP). Work visas typically run two years, with employer transfers via a Ministry of Labour Labour Clearance Card. The Investor and Talented Residency Visas give 5-10 years without a sponsor. Family sponsorship needs a minimum salary. Carry your resident card at all times. Overstay fines run OMR 10/day. Exit visas are largely abolished. Deportation can be challenged in court.
Common Questions
What is the domestic worker protections right in Oman?
Domestic workers in Oman (housemaids, drivers, cooks, gardeners) have specific legal protections:Written contract: Domestic workers must have a written employment contract specifying wages, duties, working hours, and rest days.Wages: Wages must be paid monthly as agreed in the contract. The employer cannot withhold or reduce wages without legal justification.Rest day: Domestic workers are entitled to at least 1 rest day per week.Passport retention: Employers are strictly prohibited from confiscating the domestic worker's passport.Abuse protection: Physical, verbal, or sexual abuse of domestic...
When does it apply — domestic worker protections?
You are a domestic worker in Oman (housemaid, driver, cook, nanny, etc.).Your employer is withholding your passport, wages, or rest day.You are experiencing abuse or exploitation in your employer's household.
What should I do if my employer in Oman is abusing me, withholding my wages, or confiscating my passport?
If your passport is confiscated, report it to the Royal Oman Police — this is illegal.If you are being abused, call the ROP emergency line (9999) or contact your embassy.File a labour complaint with the Ministry of Labour for wage disputes.Contact your embassy or consulate for assistance and shelter if needed.
What should you NOT do — domestic worker protections?
Do not run away without reporting — leaving without filing a complaint can result in an absconding charge.Do not sign documents you do not understand — ask for a translation.Do not accept work without a written contract — you need it to prove your rights.