Maternity and Parental Leave
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?
Oman provides maternity leave protections for working mothers:
- Maternity leave: Female workers are entitled to 98 days (14 weeks) of paid maternity leave under the Social Protection Law.
- Payment: Maternity benefits are paid through the Social Protection Fund for Omani women. Expatriate women receive at least 50 days at full pay under the Labour Law.
- Nursing breaks: After returning to work, mothers are entitled to 1 hour per day for nursing for up to 2 years after birth.
- Termination protection: It is illegal to dismiss a woman because of pregnancy or during maternity leave.
- Paternity leave: Under the Social Protection Law, fathers are entitled to 7 days of paid paternity leave.
When does it apply?
- You are a female employee who is pregnant or has recently given birth.
- You have been employed long enough to qualify — typically after completing the probation period.
- You are a father and want to take paternity leave under the Social Protection Law.
What should you do?
- Notify your employer of your pregnancy and expected due date as early as possible.
- Provide a medical certificate from a licensed doctor confirming your pregnancy.
- If your employer refuses maternity leave or dismisses you, file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour immediately.
- Register with the Social Protection Fund (for Omani nationals) to receive maternity benefits.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not resign under pressure — dismissal during pregnancy or maternity leave is illegal.
- Do not accept unpaid maternity leave if you are entitled to paid leave — check your eligibility.
- Do not skip registering with the Social Protection Fund if you are Omani — this is how you receive your benefits.
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