Annual Leave and Public Holidays
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State.
Omani National Law
What is this right?
Workers in Oman are entitled to generous paid leave under the Labour Law:
- Annual leave: A minimum of 30 calendar days of paid leave per year after completing 6 months of service.
- Public holidays: Workers receive paid leave on all official public holidays declared by the government (typically 8-10 days per year, including National Day, Islamic holidays, and Renaissance Day).
- Sick leave: Up to 10 weeks per year — first 2 weeks at full pay, next 4 weeks at 75%, last 4 weeks unpaid.
- Special leave: 3 days for marriage, 3 days for death of a close relative, and other special circumstances.
- Unused annual leave cannot be forfeited — the employer must either let you take it or pay you for it.
When does it apply?
- You have completed 6 months of continuous service with your employer.
- You are a private-sector employee covered by the Labour Law.
- Annual leave accrues proportionally if you have not yet completed a full year.
What should you do?
- Request your annual leave in writing and keep a copy of the request.
- If your employer refuses leave or does not pay for unused leave upon termination, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour.
- Track your leave balance — employers must maintain records.
- For sick leave, obtain a medical certificate from a licensed doctor.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not agree to give up your annual leave — the law guarantees it and it cannot be waived.
- Do not take unapproved absence — this can be treated as a disciplinary matter.
- Do not forget to claim unused leave when your employment ends — you are owed payment for accrued days.
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