Oman Steps Up Fight Against Human Trafficking

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 29, 2026

Oman has launched a three-month awareness campaign called ‘Aman’ to educate the public about the updated Anti-Human Trafficking Law, which imposes stricter penalties and expanded protections for victims. This initiative supports the government’s broader strategy to prevent trafficking, ensure early detection, and provide comprehensive victim services amid rising reported cases.

Oman has intensified efforts to combat human trafficking through a newly launched awareness campaign coordinated by the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT). The initiative aims to educate the public on the legal repercussions of trafficking offenses and the protections available for victims under recently updated legislation.

The campaign follows the introduction of Oman’s revised Anti-Human Trafficking Law, enacted by Royal Decree No. 78/2025 in September 2025. This legislation replaced the previous framework from 2008, broadening the definition and scope of trafficking-related crimes to encompass various forms of exploitation, including slavery, servitude, and forced labor.

Under the updated law, trafficking offenses carry penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching 100,000 Omani rials (RO). Aggravated circumstances—such as involvement of children, organized crime networks, or cross-border trafficking—can result in sentences ranging from seven to 15 years and fines up to RO 100,000. The legislation also criminalizes the confiscation or destruction of passports when used to facilitate trafficking.

Officials from the Royal Oman Police noted that the heightened focus on public awareness reflects ongoing vigilance aimed at prevention, early detection, and victim protection. The law enhances safeguards for victims by exempting them from certain residency and labor fees, offering protection from legal liability for actions committed under coercion, and providing access to specialized shelters along with legal, psychological, and medical support services.

The NCCHT’s awareness campaign, titled ‘Aman,’ is designed as a three-month program employing social media outreach, workshops, and public exhibitions. It sequentially addresses key topics such as understanding human trafficking, avenues for safe reporting, and measures for protecting victims.

Data from the Ministry of Social Development indicates that in 2025, Oman handled 39 cases of human trafficking alongside reports of 4,199 child abuse incidents, 26 forced marriage cases, and eight instances of abuse against women. These cases were managed through an integrated approach combining legal action and social support systems, underscoring the government’s comprehensive strategy to address trafficking and related abuses.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.