MoL intensifies inspections to regulate labour market
The Ministry of Labour (MoL) is stepping up its efforts to regulate Oman's labour market with a series of inspection campaigns across the Sultanate of Oman's governorates. These inspections are part of an ongoing strategy to create a positive, transparent and productive work environment while ensuring compliance with the Labour Law and related regulations.
The campaigns are designed not only to detect violations but also to raise awareness among employers and workers about the importance of adhering to the law. By doing so, the Ministry seeks to safeguard the rights of workers, strengthen fair competition and promote sustainable job opportunities for the national workforce.
Amanullah bin Balan al Balushi, Head of the Inspection Campaigns Department at the Labour Control Office in Muscat, explained that inspections are carried out in multiple ways. They may be scheduled visits based on action plans, targeted operations following public complaints, or surprise checks to uncover irregularities such as the employment of illegal workers. He added that such campaigns are essential in maintaining order in the labour market and curbing practices that negatively impact the economy and society.
To enhance effectiveness, the Ministry has recently assigned the Inspection Unit of the Security and Safety Services Corporation (SSC) to conduct field campaigns. These include identifying non-Omani workers who violate labour laws in governorates such as Muscat, Dhofar and Al Batinah North. The scope of this partnership is expected to expand to additional governorates, reflecting the Ministry's commitment to broader nationwide coverage.
Inspection campaigns cover a wide range of sectors that are vital to Oman's economic growth. These include healthcare — such as hospitals, clinics and pharmacies — retail markets, logistics and transportation, tourism establishments, warehouses, private education institutions, industrial workshops and public services. By extending oversight across these diverse fields, the Ministry ensures that all establishments abide by regulations and that Omani workers are given fair employment opportunities.
'Inspection campaigns contribute significantly to regulating the labour market, reducing irregular labour and creating sustainable job opportunities for Omanis', Al Balushi emphasised. He pointed out that the campaigns not only protect the interests of workers and employers but also enhance investor confidence in the Omani market by promoting transparency and stability.
The Ministry's latest data highlights the scale of these efforts. Since the beginning of this year, 6,698 inspection campaigns have been carried out in cooperation with competent authorities. In addition, 697 reports were received through the Ministry's electronic complaints system and the Tajawab platform. During this period, 7,874 non-Omani workers were found to be in violation of labour laws, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and enforcement.
By maintaining strict oversight, the Ministry of Labour is aligning its efforts with Oman's National Vision, which seeks to create a fair and competitive labour market, attract foreign investment and ensure that national human resources are employed effectively in line with the country's development goals.
Amanullah bin Balan al Balushi
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