MUSCAT, SEPT 7
The new Social Protection Law in Oman marks a milestone in creating an inclusive framework that balances social justice with financial sustainability.
Among its most notable provisions is the extension of early retirement options to persons with disabilities, under specific conditions - a progressive step underscoring the state’s commitment to dignity, empowerment and care for all citizens.
In an exclusive interview with the Observer, Shamsa al Tamimi, Director of Medical Affairs at the Social Protection Fund, emphasised that the decision reflects fairness and compassion, ensuring greater security and stability for persons with disabilities and their families.
Al Tamimi explained that the decision was driven primarily by humanitarian considerations: “Persons with disabilities face compounded challenges across health, social and professional spheres. This law acknowledges those realities by granting them access to early retirement without penalty deductions, ensuring a stable income and safeguarding their dignity.”
Aligned with international conventions on the rights of persons with disabilities and Oman Vision 2040, the new rules entitle insured persons with disabilities to retire at age 50 without deductions, provided they have completed at least 15 years of service during the period of disability - ten years earlier than the standard retirement age. Early retirement is also possible at 45 with proportional deductions.
“This ten-year difference is a legislative recognition of the unique circumstances persons with disabilities face,” Al Tamimi noted, adding that the 15-year service requirement ensures both fairness and sustainability: “Retirement should not be seen as an automatic entitlement, but as the result of meaningful participation in the labour market.”
Eligibility requires a 'Person with Disability' card from the Ministry of Social Development, with the disability categorised as severe under executive regulations. Qualifying conditions include autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, intellectual disability (IQ below 70), severe visual or hearing impairment and severe physical disability.
Al Tamimi said the decision will improve quality of life by offering financial stability, reducing workplace pressures, and creating space for healthcare, rehabilitation and family responsibilities. It also supports greater community engagement and volunteerism, reinforcing belonging and contribution to society.
On the labour market impact, she noted the measure will be 'limited but positive', allowing dignified retirement for some while opening opportunities for young job-seekers and supporting national workforce renewal.
Civil society and NGOs, she stressed, have a vital role in supporting implementation through awareness campaigns, administrative assistance, rehabilitation programmes and policy monitoring. “This complementary role ensures broader and fairer access to the benefits of the decision,” she said.
The Social Protection Fund is also focused on long-term sustainability through diversified investments - achieving a 6-per cent return in 2024, above its 5.5 per cent target.
Applications for early retirement opened on September 1 at the Fund’s service outlets, with eligibility verification and pension approval required.
Concluding, Al Tamimi pointed out: “Justice is incomplete unless it includes everyone, and human dignity should never be conditional on ability. This decision is not just an administrative measure - it reflects Oman’s deep belief that well-being, regardless of circumstance, is both the essence and the goal of development.”
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