Wednesday 01 / October / 2025
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman has maintained its position in international indicators for combating human trafficking, according to international reports, as a result of the government's continuous efforts in this field.
In a qualitative step that reinforces this approach, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued Royal Decree No. (78/2025) last September, promulgating the Anti-Human Trafficking Law, which aligns with relevant international standards.
The new law aims to protect victims by exempting them from fees and fines related to residency and work, ensuring they are not held accountable for actions associated with their status as victims, and providing care and support through the establishment of specialised protection shelters that offer legal, psychological, and medical support, guarantee freedom of movement and safe housing, and impose stricter penalties, including imprisonment of up to 15 years and fines of up to OMR100,000 in aggravated cases.
The law also aims to criminalize accompanying practices, such as withholding or destroying victims' passports for coercive purposes, and to enhance international cooperation in mutual legal assistance, extradition, and the exchange of information and expertise.
Additionally, it assigns national coordination to the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking, under the Foreign Ministry, to unify efforts, develop national plans and build specialised databases.
Oman has continued to strengthen law enforcement through the investigation, prosecution, and punishment of those involved in human trafficking crimes, including non-compliant employers and recruitment agencies, thereby reinforcing the principles of justice and accountability.
Efforts have also expanded to proactively identify victims and provide them with necessary support without linking it to their participation in legal procedures, ensuring their care and human dignity.
The National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking has enhanced the implementation of the national referral mechanism among various entities to ensure a swift response to victims' needs.
Protection shelters for females, children, and males have been established, operating on a victim-centered approach focused on trauma rehabilitation, while providing legal and psychological support and ensuring victims' freedom of movement.
In terms of prevention and awareness, Oman has intensified its efforts to combat illegal practices by holding violators accountable and educating workers about their rights. On the awareness front, Oman is moving forward with the implementation of the National Plan to Combat Human Trafficking (2024–2026), supported by the launch of the national campaign "Aman," or “Security” which serves as a comprehensive platform to raise awareness about the dangers of this crime and reporting mechanisms, ensuring that rights are preserved and protected.
Oman is working to strengthen bilateral, regional, and international cooperation in combating human trafficking through the exchange of expertise and best practices, as well as active participation in relevant international conferences and forums. It also emphasises the involvement of civil society organisations and the private sector in national efforts, ensuring integrated roles and enhancing the effectiveness of preventive and protective measures.
The Sultanate of Oman affirms that these efforts, foremost among them the issuance of the Anti-Human Trafficking Law, reflect its steadfast commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and building a safe and fair work environment, thereby reinforcing its position as an active international partner in protecting and preserving human rights.
