Times Of Oman, 27 September 2025: Oman has introduced comprehensive Maritime Labour Regulations through Oman Sultani Decree 313/2025, implementing commitments under the Maritime Labour Convention and establishing detailed rights and responsibilities for both Omani and foreign seafarers.

The regulations apply to all vessels except fishing boats, traditional vessels, warships, war-supply ships, and those operating in protected waters. Under the new rules, vessel operators must ensure all seafarers hold valid medical certificates with a minimum of six months ‘ validity.

Key provisions include mandatory rest periods of at least 10 hours per day and 77 hours weekly. Seafarers are entitled to a minimum of 30 days paid annual leave. The regulations also mandate operators to cover repatriation costs to either the port of contract or an agreed alternative port under specific circumstances, including contract completion in foreign ports or service exceeding nine consecutive months.

Vessel operators must provide free medical care and health insurance for crew members, along with compensation in cases of ship loss. The regulations require employment contracts to be available in Arabic or include an approved Arabic translation.

Certain vessels must now carry a Maritime Labour Certificate to demonstrate compliance with the new standards. Where the regulations do not specifically address an issue, Omani Labour Law provisions will apply.

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