OCCI calls on commercial centers owners, landlords to exempt, reduce, postpone rents

Locals and expats who are unable to pay their rent due to the economic impact of the novel coronavirus may be exempt from paying rent for their homes and shops, if the measures suggested by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) are approved.

Within the responsibility of the Chamber’s interest in safeguarding workers in the private sector, the OCCI has worked in coordination with the Ministry of Manpower and with the competent authorities to provide many measures and incentives aimed at reducing the pressures it suffers from as a result of the current economic conditions.

“We are approaching the government to ask for them to waive rents for those people who cannot find work or do not have work at the moment,” explained Ahmed Al Hooti, head of the Economic Committee and a Board Member at OCCI.

“If a person is not getting a salary, then how can they pay rent? It will be impossible for them to pay rent, as well as many of the other commitments they have. This applies to both Omanis and expats.”

“There are some companies that have offered reduced salaries to their employees, but these employees are still required to pay their rents in full,” he added.

“In this case, we hope that these companies can reach an agreement with their employers, or provide them an alternative to their current issue, as this is a practice that is currently taking place all over the world, and companies are trying to help their employees.”

Source: Oman News Agency, Times of Oman, Oman Observer