MUSCAT — Oman will extend compulsory sick leave and extraordinary leave insurance coverage to expatriate workers in both the public and private sectors from July 20, 2026, under a new decision issued by the Social Protection Fund (SPF).

The measure, introduced through Decision No. 13/2026, makes participation in the insurance scheme mandatory for expatriate employees working in units of the State Administrative Apparatus, other public legal entities, and private sector establishments governed by the Labour Law.

According to the Social Protection Fund, the move is aimed at expanding social protection coverage and ensuring broader benefits for insured workers across the Sultanate.

The sick leave and extraordinary leave insurance branch has been in effect for Omani workers since July 2019, providing coverage for employees in the public and private sectors, including those employed under temporary and training contracts, as well as retired workers.

Under the new decision, the coverage will be extended to all eligible expatriate workers employed by government entities and private sector establishments subject to the Labour Law.

The provisions do not apply to expatriate workers who fall outside the scope of the Labour Law, including domestic workers.

SPF said the expansion forms part of Oman’s wider efforts to strengthen its social protection framework and enhance welfare safeguards for the country’s workforce.