MUSCAT: The Ministry of Labour in Muscat has announced specific deadlines for employers to comply with the Wage Protection System (WPS) requirements aimed at regulating the labour market and enhancing transparency in wage payments. The initiative seeks to prevent violations that could result in financial penalties while ensuring that workers receive their wages promptly and securely. Employers are expected to align with the phased compliance measures as outlined by the Ministry to promote a fair and accountable work environment across all sectors.
According to the decision, establishments must transfer wages for at least 75% of their workforce through the WPS starting with the payment cycle for September 2025, which is due in October 2025. This initial stage marks a significant step toward comprehensive implementation of the system, encouraging more employers to adopt digital wage payments as a means to guarantee timely salary disbursements. The Ministry is closely monitoring the progress of adherence to these requirements and will provide support where necessary to facilitate the transition.
Further strengthening the enforcement of the system, the Ministry mandates that by November 2025, at least 90% of the total number of workers in each establishment must have their wages processed through the WPS, with payments due in December 2025. This second phase represents the Ministry’s commitment to achieving near-complete coverage of wage payments through the system within a defined timeline, thereby enhancing labour market regulation and protecting employee rights effectively.
The Ministry emphasised that these measures reflect its ongoing efforts to improve the labour market’s integrity and operational standards. Employers are urged to ensure compliance within the stipulated deadlines to avoid legal repercussions and contribute to a transparent wage payment ecosystem. By adopting the WPS comprehensively, the Ministry aims to bolster trust between employers and employees, reduce wage-related disputes, and foster a healthy working environment conducive to economic growth and development in Oman.
