Corporate Structures in the Sultanate of Oman

Introduction Selecting the appropriate legal structure is one of the most consequential strategic decisions a business makes in the Sultanate of Oman. The choice determines governance mechanisms, liability exposure, capital flexibility, regulatory burden, and long-term scalability. Despite the apparent simplicity of acronyms such as LLC, SAOC, and SAOG, the underlying legal and operational distinctions are … Read more

The 2026 Mandatory Performance-Linked Salary Increment in Oman’s Private Sector

Executive Summary The Oman salary increment 2026 reform introduces a mandatory, performance-linked annual increase for Omani nationals employed in the private sector, effective 1 January 2026. Implemented through Ministerial regulation under Royal Decree No. 53/2023 (Labour Law), the framework establishes a structured increment scale ranging from 2% to 5% of basic salary, with 0% applicable … Read more

When “HSE Requirements” Become Scope Creep

Introduction In large EPC projects, especially those governed by FIDIC-based contracts, contractors are constantly required to balance two competing realities. On one hand, there is a genuine obligation to maintain high standards of health, safety, and environmental compliance. On the other hand, there is a growing tendency for employers and clients to use “HSE” as … Read more

Guarantees in Practice: How to Actually Protect Your Company

Introduction In theory, contracts protect you.In reality, contracts only protect you after years of dispute. Most professionals working in construction, EPC, supply chain, or large commercial projects eventually learn a painful lesson: being legally right and being commercially safe are two very different things. This article explains, in practical terms: Not in theory.In practice. The … Read more

Understanding FIDIC Silver Book Clause 21: Disputes, DAAB, and Arbitration Explained

In the world of international construction contracts, disputes are inevitable, even in the best-managed projects. The FIDIC Silver Book (2017 Edition) anticipates this reality and provides a clear framework for resolving disputes efficiently. At the heart of this framework lies Clause 21 — “Disputes and Arbitration.” Understanding this clause is critical for contract administrators, project … Read more

FIDIC Silver Book 2017 Clause 20 Explained: Employer’s and Contractor’s Claims Procedure

Introduction: The FIDIC Silver Book (2017 Edition) is widely recognized in international construction contracts for allocating risk and responsibility clearly between Employers and Contractors. Among its many clauses, Clause 20: Employer’s and Contractor’s Claims stands out as one of the most practical, critical, and potentially contentious. Why? Because claims — whether for additional payment, extension … Read more

Understanding FIDIC Silver Book 2017 – Clause 13: Variations and Adjustments

The FIDIC Silver Book (2017 Edition), officially titled Conditions of Contract for EPC/Turnkey Projects, is specifically designed for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects where the Contractor undertakes full responsibility for delivering a complete, functioning facility at a fixed price and within a fixed timeframe. Unlike the FIDIC Red or Yellow Books, the Silver Book … Read more