Updates on Non-Omani Recruitment Policies

A new ministerial decision, No. 390/2026, has been issued regarding the regulation of hiring foreign labor in the Sultanate of Oman. It specifies the conditions and procedures for licensing recruitment offices, as well as their obligations. The regulation sets the recruitment period at 45 days, with the possibility of an additional 30-day extension. It also introduces controls related to service guarantees, insurance coverage, and employer compensations. To obtain a license, the owner or partners must be Omani nationals and possess relevant experience or qualifications. The office must have a designated premises, and there must be suitable accommodation for the workers. The license is valid for two years, with the option to open branches after one year from the initial license, provided that additional financial guarantees are met. The regulations outline the rights of employers, including the ability to recover funds within 90 days and receive compensation for violations. They also specify inspection procedures and sanctions for violators, with license revocation in cases of repeated violations or involvement in crimes related to forced labor or human trafficking. The new regulations will come into effect on January 1, 2027, replacing the previous regulation.