Oman has expanded its sick leave and extraordinary leave insurance to include expatriate workers in both the public and private sectors. The new rule took effect on July 20, 2026, and it comes under a decision that had been issued by the Social Protection Fund (SPF).
Under the SPF Decision No. 13/2026, all expatriate employees working in government institutions, other public bodies, and private companies covered by the Labour Law have to join the insurance scheme.
The sick leave and extraordinary leave insurance program was first introduced for Omani workers in July 2019.
It also covers employees in the public and private sectors. Further, it includes workers on temporary and training contracts as well as retired workers.
However, the new decision does not apply to expatriate workers who are not covered by the Labour Law. This includes domestic workers as well.
Deadline for Omani Scholarship Program extended
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) recently extended the deadline to apply for the Omani Scholarship Program for Undergraduate Studies 2026-27 until July 16, 2026.
The extension gives eligible students from Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) more time to apply.
HEC said that Pakistani and AJK students with a valid Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) score that has been obtained on or after June 13, 2025, and is valid until June 13, 2026, can apply. The commission also said that it will not hold a separate USAT test for the scholarship.
The scholarship is offered by the Government of the Sultanate of Oman under its Cultural and Scientific Cooperation Program. It provides two fully funded undergraduate scholarships for Pakistani students.
HEC also said that selected students must get their General Education Diploma or equivalent certificate. Additionally, they should also get an academic transcript apostille that has been attested by Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
