“I Was Sold”: Abuse and Exploitation of Migrant Domestic Workers in Oman

Researchers at Human Rights Watch

This research report focuses on migrant domestic workers in Oman, who are sometimes invited to work for Omani families and find themselves trapped in households where they receive no pay, little food, abuse, and long working hours. Through interviews with 59 female migrant workers, the researchers were able to gather information on the working conditions of domestic workers in Oman.  The report details an overview of the backgrounds of migrant domestic female workers, the abuses they face/ faced while in employment, the relationship of Omani law with domestic workers, and recommendations for international actors whose citizens are involved in this exploitation.  The report also discusses hardships faced by workers when trying to leave their situation, both physically and legally.