Omani Human Rights Official: Withholding Workers’ Passports Is a Crime and a Violation of Human Rights

August 17, 2025
The Vice-Chairman of Oman’s National Human Rights Commission affirmed that employers withholding workers’ passports is considered illegal, inhumane, and a punishable crime under Omani law. His remarks came during an interview on the program “Forum Al-Wisal” hosted by Madiha Al-Suleimani.

Violation of the 2023 Labour Law
He explained that Oman’s 2023 Labour Law criminalizes the act of retaining a worker’s passport, stressing that restricting a worker’s freedom of movement or personal rights constitutes a clear violation of the law. He added: “If an employer has a claim or dispute, the proper channel is the judiciary—not confiscating passports or preventing workers from traveling.”

End of Contract Disputes
The official noted cases where some employers deny workers the right to end their service or return home after completing their contracts, citing reimbursement of expenses. He stressed that such practices are unlawful and violate workers’ rights.

Courts as the Legal Recourse
He emphasized that the courts are the only legitimate avenue to resolve disputes between workers and employers, with the law guaranteeing everyone the right to litigation. “Those who feel aggrieved must go to court rather than resorting to illegal individual measures,” he said.

These statements come amid ongoing social and human rights discussions in Oman on strengthening protections for migrant workers.