How overtime is calculated in Oman
The 2023 law sets 9 hours a day / 45 a week (6 hours / 30 a week in Ramadan for Muslims). Hourly rate here = basic ÷ 30 ÷ 9. Rest-day work may alternatively be compensated with a day off plus 100%. Total daily hours including overtime may not exceed 12.
Worked example
OMR 500: hourly = 500 ÷ 30 ÷ 9 = 1.85. Ten hours of daytime overtime (125%) = 10 × 1.85 × 1.25 = OMR 23.15.
Overtime rates across the GCC
| Country | Weekday | Night | Rest day / holiday | Hourly basis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Qatar | 125% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Saudi Arabia | 150% | 150% | 150% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Oman | 125% | 150% | 200% | basic ÷ 30 ÷ 9 |
| Bahrain | 125% | 150% | 150% | full ÷ 30 ÷ 8 |
| Kuwait | 125% | — | 150% / 200% | full ÷ 26 ÷ 8 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the overtime rate in Oman?
Daytime overtime (125%); Night overtime (150%); Rest day / public holiday (200%). Legal basis: Royal Decree 53/2023, Art. 70–72.
How do I calculate my hourly rate for overtime in Oman?
Monthly basic salary ÷ 30 days ÷ 9 hours. Example: OMR 500 → OMR 1.85 per hour; one weekday overtime hour = OMR 2.31.
Is overtime calculated on basic or gross salary in Oman?
On basic salary. Allowances are excluded, which is why the overtime rate often looks low relative to total pay.
Is there a limit on overtime hours in Oman?
Yes — normally 3 hours a day. See the notes above for annual limits and exceptions.
Can my employer give time off instead of overtime pay?
For work on the weekly rest day most GCC laws allow a substitute day off (sometimes plus a premium). For ordinary weekday overtime the law requires payment; time-off-in-lieu arrangements need your agreement.
Are managers entitled to overtime?
Most GCC labour laws allow employers to exclude senior managerial or supervisory staff from working-hours provisions by contract or ministerial decision. Check your contract and job classification.
Is overtime pay subject to tax or social insurance?
There is no personal income tax in the GCC. For nationals, overtime is generally excluded from the pensionable wage used for GOSI/PASI/GRSIA contributions.