Important advice before going to work in Oman

INTRODUCTION

The idea of seeking job opportunities in Oman has been attracting many Tanzanians, both men and women, with the promise of a better life and higher income. However, behind these promises lies a reality that demands thorough preparation and utmost caution. The journey from Tanzania to work in a Gulf country like Oman is not a simple affair; it is filled with opportunities but also many challenges that can be avoided with the right information. Many people have succeeded, but others have found themselves in difficult situations due to a lack of sufficient understanding before their departure. The purpose of this article is to provide you, a Tanzanian aspiring to work in Oman, with essential and practical advice that will serve as your guide. We will delve into every crucial area, from the initial preparatory steps, how to identify a legitimate recruitment agent, the importance of understanding your contract, to psychological and cultural readiness. This is your comprehensive guide to ensure your employment journey to Oman is safe, legal, and successful.

INITIAL PREPARATION AND ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Before you even begin the formal process of job searching, your personal preparation is the primary foundation. Having all the necessary documents and meeting the preliminary criteria will ease your journey and position you favorably before an agent or employer. Below is a list of essential requirements and advice on how to prepare them:

A Valid Passport with Long Validity: The passport is your most crucial document. Ensure it has at least one year of validity before you start the process. A passport that is close to expiring can stall your visa application. Make photocopies and digital copies (scans) of the important pages of your passport and save them in a secure place, such as your email.
A Professionally Prepared CV: Even if you are applying for jobs that do not require higher education, such as domestic work in Oman or cleaning jobs in Oman, having a CV shows seriousness. Prepare a brief CV in English that outlines your personal details, any work experience you have (even if informal), and your skills. This will help the agent and employer get to know you better.
Medical Fitness Certificate: This is mandatory. The Omani government requires proof that you are medically fit and free from communicable diseases. You will be required to undergo tests at embassy-approved medical centers. Being honest about your health status is crucial to avoid the inconvenience of being sent back home after arriving in Oman and undergoing tests again.
Educational and Skill Certificates: Prepare original copies of your certificates. For professional jobs, ensure the certificates are attested by relevant authorities like the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Omani Embassy. This is a vital step that verifies the legitimacy of your education.
Language Skills (English/Arabic): This is a challenge for many but is extremely important. Strive to learn basic English before you leave. Knowing how to introduce yourself, ask basic questions, and understand simple instructions will greatly help you in communicating with your employer and in daily life. Learning a few Arabic words like "Shukran" (Thank you) and "Salam" (Hello) will earn you respect.
Psychological Preparation: Acknowledge that you are going to a foreign country, far from family and friends. Prepare yourself psychologically for loneliness, culture shock, and the possibility of working harder than you are used to. Being mentally strong is a huge part of success.

IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS: THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU LEAVE

This is the most critical part of our advice. Understanding the following points in-depth will protect you from ninety percent (90%) of the problems that many who seek job opportunities in Oman face.

How to Identify a Legitimate Agent and Avoid Scammers

The problem of fraud in the overseas employment sector is significant. Many people have lost their money and even entered into exploitative contracts through fake agents. Here is how you can identify a legitimate agent:

Government Recognition: In Tanzania, a legitimate agent must be registered with the Tanzania Employment Services Agency (TAESA) or the relevant authority in Zanzibar. Do not hesitate to ask to see their license and verify the registration number on government websites.
Has a Formal Office: A legitimate agent operates from a proper, physical office, not someone you meet in a restaurant or on a street corner.
Does Not Demand Money Before a Contract: Be wary of an agent who demands large payments for "registration" or "job searching" before you have even received a job offer and a valid contract. Most visa and ticket costs should be borne by the employer.
Will Not Withhold Your Passport: An agent may ask for a copy of your passport, but not the original document. Do not hand over your original passport to anyone until the visa process has officially begun at the immigration offices.
Provides a Contract for Review: An honest agent will give you a draft of the employment contract to read and understand before signing. Avoid any agent who rushes you to sign without you understanding its contents.

The Importance of the Employment Contract: Key Things to Check

The employment contract is your law and your protection in Oman. Never travel without a contract signed by both you and your employer. When you review the contract, check these clauses carefully:

Job Description: Does the contract clearly state the duties you are going to perform? For example, if it's for domestic work, does it specify cleaning, cooking, and childcare? Avoid contracts with vague or non-existent job descriptions.
Salary and Payments: Is the salary clearly stated in Omani Rials (OMR)? Are there any deductions? When and how will the salary be paid (bank or cash)? Omani law emphasizes payment through the banking system (Wage Protection System - WPS).
Working Hours and Rest Days: The contract should specify how many hours you will work per day and how many rest days you get per week. Although this can be challenging for domestic workers, having rest time is your basic right.
Accommodation, Food, and Medical: Does the employer cover accommodation, food, and medical expenses? This is very important because the cost of living is high. Ensure this is clearly written in the contract.
Annual Leave: The law entitles you to paid annual leave. Does the contract specify how many days of leave you will get after what period? And will the employer pay for a round-trip flight ticket?
Contract Duration and Termination Clauses: Most contracts are for two years. What does the contract say will happen if you want to leave before the term ends or if the employer wants to terminate your employment?

Important advice: Do not agree to sign a contract written in a language you do not understand. Request an English translation and, if possible, have someone you trust help you read it.

Financial and Cultural Preparation

Being financially and culturally ready will save you from shock and many initial challenges.

Financially: Although the employer might cover everything, it is wise to have a small amount of money (at least $100-200 USD) for emergencies and small initial needs before you receive your first salary. Do not carry large amounts of cash.
Culturally: Oman is a conservative Islamic country. Respect their culture. Wear modest clothing that covers your body when in public. Avoid behaviors that could be seen as offensive, such as speaking loudly, public displays of affection, and consuming alcohol. During the holy month of Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours.

Understanding the Sponsorship System (Kafala System)

You must understand that you will be under the Kafala system. This means your work visa and your legal residency in Oman are tied to your employer (known as the sponsor). What does this mean for you?

You cannot change jobs and move to another employer without getting official permission from your current employer (an NOC - No Objection Certificate).
You cannot leave the country (even for vacation) without your employer's permission.
Your passport may be held by your employer. Although new laws are trying to prevent this, it is still a common practice. Keep copies of all your important documents.

Understanding this system will help you know your rights and limitations and avoid making decisions that could get you into legal trouble.

SUCCESS STRATEGIES AND KEY TIPS

To ensure your journey is successful, here is a collection of key tips to consider before and after arriving in Oman.

Contact the Tanzanian Embassy: Before you leave, find the address, phone numbers, and email of the Tanzanian Embassy in Oman. As soon as you arrive, try to contact them and register. The embassy is your main support system while you are away from home.
Keep a Record of Contacts: Ensure your family has a copy of your contract, your employer's name, address, and the phone number of where you will be working.
Build a Good Network: When you get to Oman, try to build friendships with fellow Tanzanians and other people. Having people to talk to will help reduce loneliness and provide support when needed.
Be Patient and Hardworking: The first few days can be very difficult. Be patient as you learn the job and adapt to the new environment. Show diligence and honesty in your work; this will build a good relationship with your employer.
Avoid Unnecessary Conflicts: Respect the law and the locals. Avoid getting involved in politics, religious debates, or any actions that could jeopardize your job and safety.
Use Money Wisely: Remember the main goal that brought you to Oman is to improve your life. Use your salary wisely. Send money home for development purposes, and also save for yourself. Avoid unnecessary expenses.

CONCLUSION

The decision to seek job opportunities in Oman is a courageous step with the potential to transform your life and that of your family. However, the success of this journey depends not on luck, but on thorough preparation, research, and caution at every stage. The advice provided in this article aims to prepare you fully – from knowing your rights, identifying fraudulent agents, understanding the importance of your contract, to preparing psychologically and culturally. Remember, knowledge is power. When you are well-informed, you are empowered to make the right decisions and protect yourself from exploitation. Work hard, respect the laws and culture of your hosts, and always maintain communication with your embassy and family. By doing so, you can turn your dream of employment in Oman into a successful and blessed reality.