The Arabian Stories, 26 May 2025: The Ministry of Social Development in Oman has issued Oman Ministerial Decision No. 169/2025, to implement new governance regulations aimed at enhancing the quality of care and support in government-run homes for the elderly.

This decision marks a significant shift in the management of institutional care for the aging population in Oman, impacting government-run homes for the elderly, mandating them to provide comprehensive social, health, psychological, cultural, and recreational care services. The regulations require these institutions to create a suitable environment for the elderly and coordinate with relevant authorities to manage their financial affairs.

Key obligations under the new regulations include the requirement for residents to confirm their registry information annually through an electronic verification process, replacing the traditional renewal requirement. The regulations also grant residents the right to receive visitors and leave the home under specific guidelines. The decision encourages volunteer participation in organising activities for residents, with strict conditions on health and conduct, including a prohibition on photographing or sharing images of residents.

Article 7 of Oman Ministerial Decision No. 169/2025 mandates that the home must inform a family member of the elderly person if there is a critical health condition or accident. If contacting a family member is not possible, the home is authorised to approve necessary surgical interventions in the resident’s best interest.

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