Oman has maintained its Tier 2 status in the 2026 U.S. State Department Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, reflecting continued progress in combating human trafficking over the past year. The report underscores the Sultanate’s efforts to strengthen legal measures, enhance victim protections, and expand preventive initiatives.
Central to Oman’s advancement is the adoption of the 2025 Law on Combating Human Trafficking, which broadens the scope of trafficking offenses and introduces harsher penalties. The legislation also incorporates provisions aimed at safeguarding the rights of survivors and improving victim protection mechanisms. These legal updates signal Oman’s commitment to modernizing its anti-trafficking framework in line with international standards.
The report highlights improvements in victim identification and streamlined referral processes to specialised care centres. Government-supported services for survivors include shelter, food, medical assistance, legal counsel, psychological support, and financial allowances. Foreign victims benefit from alternative legal options concerning residency and employment, indicating efforts to provide comprehensive and accessible support for affected individuals.
Law enforcement agencies play a key role in Oman’s anti-trafficking strategy. The Royal Oman Police and the Office of the Public Prosecution continue operating specialised anti-trafficking units, complemented by targeted training programs to enhance operational readiness. The government also actively pursues bilateral cooperation with other countries to bolster law enforcement efforts related to trafficking networks.
Preventive measures are coordinated through the National Committee to Combat Human Trafficking (NCCHT), which is implementing the National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking for 2024–2026. These initiatives include public awareness campaigns tailored to vulnerable populations and improved reporting mechanisms, such as a dedicated human trafficking hotline.
In October 2025, the Ministry of Labor introduced new regulations aimed at strengthening protections for domestic workers, a group often at heightened risk of exploitation. Oman has also expanded collaboration with labour-sending countries through memorandums of understanding, bilateral agreements, and executive programs to safeguard migrant workers.
The TIP report’s evaluation reflects Oman’s ongoing dedication to enhancing its anti-trafficking ecosystem through legislative reform, victim support, prevention, and international cooperation. While challenges remain, the Sultanate’s recent measures demonstrate a sustained commitment to addressing human trafficking within its borders.