Oman nearly doubles paid maternity leave as part of new laws

Earlier, paid maternity leave in Oman could last up to 50 days. But as part of a raft of employment reforms boosting workers’ rights and offering employers more flexibility, the country’s government has almost doubled the figure, increasing it to 98.

Progressive Reforms Welcomed By Workers And Employers Alike

Other changes include the introduction of seven days’ paid paternity leave, when previously there was none. The new laws also bring in a 14-day paid bereavement leave when the husband of a non-Muslim worker passes away.

The progressive reforms have been welcomed by workers and employers alike. According to Mohammed Al Rahbi, an Omani working in the oil and gas sector, “the introduction of new rights for employees … is a significant step forward for work-life balance.”

The recent changes also allow employees to take time off from work for a number of reasons, including study leave to sit examinations. The reforms were part of an overhaul of previous legislation from 2003, covering multiple areas such as wages, said Mohammed Al Farsi.

What Effects Could The Reforms Have On Omanisation?

The law appears to provide more flexibility to employers and provides new grounds for terminating the services of underperforming Omani employees, the legal associate at Decree added. The latter is one of the key changes in the new Labour Law.

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The change should leave a positive impact on the quality of hired Omani employees, Al Farsi said. Fatma Al Balushi also expressed her support for the move. The small-business owner said the provision is believed to encourage companies to maintain higher standards in their workforce.

The reforms will offer more opportunities to the deserving Omanis, she added. Meanwhile, Al Rahbi said the provisions showed the government cares about the well-being of the people and is committed to promoting a “fair and inclusive work environment”.