Oman has intensified its enforcement of labour regulations, resulting in the deportation of 2,944 workers and fines totaling approximately OMR 3.246 million (about KSh1.1 billion).
The Ministry of Labour conducted 6,707 inspections across various governorates to assess compliance with employment laws. Inspectors discovered that 11,172 workers were in violation of labour rules, with 4,680 cases being forwarded to the Public Prosecution for further legal proceedings.
Following the crackdown, 272 job opportunities were registered through settlement agreements related to the inspections. Despite these violations, Oman reported an overall labour compliance rate of 69.5% nationwide.
Context for Foreign Workers
This operation underscores Oman’s ongoing efforts to regulate employment practices and curb irregular work arrangements. The move is significant for Kenyan and other African workers who live or seek employment in Gulf countries.
Similar concerns have been raised in the United Arab Emirates, where authorities have clarified that valid residency permits do not always guarantee protection from deportation under certain circumstances.
