Continuous Leadership of the Sultanate of Oman in Combating Human Trafficking
The Sultanate of Oman continues to strengthen its position as a leading nation in combating human trafficking through integrated national efforts combining legislation, awareness, and international cooperation. This reflects the principles of Oman Vision 2040, which places human beings at the heart of development. Oman is recognised globally as a nation that values and respects human dignity above all else.
The features of this leadership are evident in its robust legislative framework and specialised institutional structure. The Anti-Human Trafficking Law, issued in 2008, criminalises all forms of human trafficking and establishes clear mechanisms for the protection of victims. An updated version of the law is expected to be issued soon, as media outlets have reported that the Council of Oman has reviewed the draft of the new law and completed its legislative process, awaiting promulgation by Royal Decree. In addition, the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking was established, comprising representatives from 12 governmental and civil entities, to coordinate national efforts and continuously update related policies.
Efficient National Strategic Plan
As part of Oman’s leadership in combating human trafficking, a National Action Plan (2024–2026) has been developed in accordance with national and international recommendations. The plan aims to enhance border control, protect victims, and update relevant laws. Through this unified strategy, the Sultanate continues to develop a comprehensive and integrated response to human trafficking, reflecting its firm commitment to safeguarding human dignity and protecting all individuals within its territory from exploitation and abuse.
The National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking seeks to strengthen Oman’s efforts to prevent, suppress, and punish human trafficking in all its forms, while ensuring the protection and support of victims. It is grounded in the Anti-Human Trafficking Law and aligned with ratified international conventions and protocols.
The plan is structured around four main pillars: prevention, protection, prosecution, and regional and international cooperation. Under the prevention pillar, it seeks to enhance preventive measures by raising awareness of the dangers of human trafficking, reviewing national legislation, and building the capacity of first responders through training programmes to identify potential victims of all forms of trafficking.
Under the protection pillar, the plan aims to identify, protect, and assist victims of trafficking in accordance with the highest international standards by providing comprehensive care and rehabilitation. Regarding prosecution, it aims to strengthen the rule of law within the criminal justice system through an integrated framework for evidence collection, investigation, and prosecution of trafficking cases.
The plan also places special emphasis on regional and international cooperation by promoting the signing of bilateral memoranda of understanding, showcasing Oman’s efforts at the global level, and exchanging knowledge and best practices to enhance leadership in combating this crime.
The National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking continues to operate diligently in line with international and regional treaties and agreements, in cooperation with all national and international partners, to uphold the rule of law and preserve human values.
The Sultanate of Oman attaches great importance to the prosecution of those involved in human trafficking crimes, viewing the judiciary as a primary instrument in combating this offence. Dedicated offices and departments for anti-human trafficking affairs have been established within the Royal Oman Police, Public Prosecution, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Labour, thereby enhancing specialisation and efficiency in handling such cases.
In 2019, a Rapid Intervention Team was formed under the chairmanship of the Public Prosecution, comprising members from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Social Development, and the Royal Oman Police. The team coordinates and manages cases requiring urgent response. Additionally, specialised public prosecutors and liaison officers have been assigned in every governorate to handle human trafficking cases. The Anti-Human Trafficking Section of the Royal Oman Police has been elevated to a full department with four divisions: Information Monitoring and Collection, International Cooperation, Case Affairs, and Coordination and Follow-up.
Oman’s efforts to combat human trafficking are founded on national, regional, and international cooperation. These efforts are supported by numerous agreements and partnerships that strengthen coordination among relevant agencies. The Sultanate also focuses on victim protection by providing legal, social, and health assistance to help victims rebuild safe and dignified lives. The National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking continues to work with dedication and transparency, in accordance with international and regional treaties, in cooperation with partners at both national and international levels, to uphold the rule of law and human rights. Oman’s achievements in this field have received widespread international recognition, particularly for its progress in developing legislation, modernising investigative tools, and strengthening cooperation with international organisations.
Under the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Sultanate of Oman continues its efforts to raise public awareness through campaigns and community initiatives. On 30 July 2025, coinciding with the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the campaign “Aman” (“Safety”) was launched to increase public understanding of the dangers of trafficking, inform victims of their rights, and promote reporting mechanisms. At the same time, the National Committee for Combating Human Trafficking continues to conduct training programmes for law enforcement officials and periodic studies to monitor and address this phenomenon.
Through these efforts, the Government of Oman seeks to educate society about human trafficking, its risks, and its impact, raise awareness of reporting channels, and inform the public about legal penalties for offenders. This is reinforced through the bilingual (Arabic and English) website of the National Committee, which allows victims to seek help in 14 international languages. The Committee also maintains active social media platforms to enhance outreach and engagement with the public.