MUSCAT – In an exclusive interview with The Arabian Stories, Jabir welcomed the new amendments to the law, which affirm Oman’s commitment to fulfil the provisions of Royal Decree No. 52/2023 with an extended timeframe.

“Oman is the first country in the region to introduce social protections to migrant workers,” stated Jabir, who has closely followed the law’s progression. He highlighted the inclusion of maternity and sick leave, as well as occupational injury benefits for migrant workers, which, he noted, is unprecedented in other regional nations.

“We, as social workers, help hundreds of people to get their benefits, and this ensures migrant workers who were previously unable to secure their entitlements will now have a formalised system to receive their rights,” Jabir added, emphasising the positive impact on the lives of expatriate workers. He also specifically lauded the inclusion of migrant women in maternity benefits.

The International Labour Organization (ILO), which supported the development of Oman’s original Social Protection Law (under Royal Decree No. 52/2023), had recognised this legislation as a significant benchmark. The ILO previously stated that the new law “significantly expands protection to migrant workers in Oman,” and noted the establishment of a national provident fund to administer end-of-service benefits for migrant workers – a first in the region.

Jabir revealed that the ILO is actively encouraging other countries to follow Oman’s lead, with serious discussions already underway in several nations. “Migrant social workers in other countries are also considering (this model) because Oman is the first country,” he said. Countries like India and the Philippines are also reportedly pleased, as it addresses long-standing issues concerning end-of-service gratuities, now transitioning into a more secure savings system ensuring workers receive their due.

It is pertinent to note that the Savings Systems under the Social Protection Law replaces the end-of-service gratuity for expatriate employees. This system is mandatory for non-Omani workers (Article 136) and requires their contribution of 9 percent of the basic salary.