Human rights handbook for expat labour in Oman explained

A number of expatriate worker complaints to Oman’s Human Rights Commission (OHRC) over abuse at work prompted the government body to release a handbook. The manual, in English and Arabic, is a go-to guide of the rights and obligations of every worker in the Sultanate.

The government’s Human Rights Commission compiled it after monitors there were approached by a number of expats who wanted to air grievances against rogue employers.

Explaining why the commission published the guide, a spokesman said: “The OHRC received and monitored a number of labour cases related to the non-Omani labour force in recent times. Most of these cases involved domestic workers and other labour issues relating to salaries, adequate housing, and other rights.
 

“To raise awareness of the rights and duties of non-Omani workers, the committee has initiated the publication of a manual containing a compilation of local laws and legislation relating to the rights and duties of non-Omani manpower and domestic workers, and the mechanism for making complaints about irregularities to various parties.”

Resolving complaints

The OHRC has outlined seven ways of resolving complaints of expat workers against employers. A spokesman for the rights body said they had been approached and wanted to ensure that everyone in Oman was treated fairly.

The official guide published by the OHRC states: “Omani and non-Omanis workers are safeguarded by laws against violations and aggressions. Oman has also found certain mechanisms that deal with violations against workers.

Therefore, the non-Omani workforce is advised not to take illegal individual actions, such as leaving work, going on strike or running away, as these actions would hold them legally accountable and might result in forfeiting their rights.”

The OHRC suggests expat workers should discuss the problem with their employer first.

“Secondly, they should involve labour syndicates and trade unions. As of 2017, there are more than 230 syndicates and trade unions in the Sultanate. Third, they should involve the recruitment agencies. If that doesn’t work, then they should file a complaint with the labour welfare department and follow up by going to the labour court.

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