In March 2019, Oman’s government introduced compulsory health insurance (known as the Unified Health Insurance Policy or “Dhamani”) for private sector employees and visitors.
To finalize the implementation process of the mandate, Oman’s Financial Services Authority (FSA), formerly known as the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), has implemented a new electronic platform for the administration of health care insurance services.
The Omani government recently issued Royal Decree No.53/2023 (the “New Law”), which introduces a seven-day paternity leave, a one-year unpaid childcare leave for female employees, and increases current maternity, sick, and bereavement leaves. The New Law also introduces an Omanization requirement, mandating that companies employ a certain number of Omani nationals based on their local headcount.
The New Law entered into effect on 26 July 2023, and businesses must comply by 26 January 2024 (six months from the enactment of the New Law). Companies will receive additional guidance via the implementing regulations expected to be released in the coming months.
The government of Oman recently issued Royal Decree 52/2023 (the “New Law”) promulgating the Social Protection Law, which extends certain social protection benefits—including maternity leave, paternity leave, work injury, and sick leave—to foreign workers.
The New Law is effective from 20 July 2023, but its provisions will enter into effect on different dates between July 2023 and July 2026. Companies will receive additional guidance via the implementing regulations expected to be released in the coming months.