Oman
Strengthens Status of Its Cultural Heritage

Muscat,
11 June 2026 (ONA) — Royal Decree No. 62/2026 has been issued, introducing
amendments to certain provisions of the Cultural Heritage Law. These amendments
reflect the growing importance the Sultanate of Oman places on protecting its
tangible and intangible cultural heritage, while enhancing its standing both
locally and internationally. The move is part of broader efforts to reinforce
the legal framework for safeguarding cultural heritage and consolidating
national identity.

A
key amendment expands the definition of the “competent authority” to include
the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and
Youth, each within its respective areas of competence. This ensures
institutional integration in the management and protection of cultural heritage
in all its dimensions.

The
law stipulates that the competent authority shall be responsible for protecting
cultural heritage, including its collection, documentation, proper management,
preservation, sustainability, and transmission to future
generations—recognizing heritage as a cornerstone of Oman’s national identity
and civilizational legacy.

The
amendments also introduce terminology covering tangible and intangible cultural
heritage, as well as movable, immovable, and underwater heritage. A new term,
“Omani World Cultural Heritage,” has been coined to refer to sites inscribed or
nominated for UNESCO lists, underscoring Oman’s international presence and its
commitment to relevant global conventions.

A
dedicated chapter on geological heritage has been added. This includes
distinctive geological phenomena of exceptional scientific value, such as rock
formations, strata, structural and geochemical features, fossils, and
meteorites, as well as surface geomorphological features resulting from
weathering and erosion.

The
law prohibits taking or borrowing samples—whole or partial—from geological
heritage except for exhibition in museums and galleries, or for scientific
research and studies, and only after obtaining approval from the competent
authority. This ensures the preservation of this natural legacy of scientific
and national importance.

The
law also pays particular attention to meteorites, defined as rocky masses
originating from asteroids or solar system planets that have fallen to Earth in
various sizes. Clear controls have been established for searching, possessing,
or disposing of meteorites, in line with their scientific and heritage value.

To
strengthen legal protection for geological heritage, the amendments impose
stricter penalties for related violations. In cases of smuggling geological
heritage items, penalties include imprisonment for a term of no less than four
years and no more than ten years, and/or a fine of no less than RO 20,000 and
no more than RO 150,000. Additional penalties apply for unauthorized
possession, disposal, or destruction.

The
amended law also mandates reporting any archaeological discoveries within no
more than 48 hours, and requires the competent authorities to take necessary
action within 60 days, ensuring a balanced legal environment for cultural
heritage protection.

Furthermore,
the amendments provide more precise regulation for licensing heritage-related
activities, including the establishment of private museums and heritage galleries,
as well as the sale, purchase, or export of heritage artifacts.

—
Ends/AH