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2 clusters · 2 sources · 7 days · First seen · Last updated

Oman legal restrictions on speech and national symbols

Overview

Oman has tightened legal oversight regarding public expression and the protection of state identity. Initially, the Public Prosecution issued a warning to social media users, stating that posting or sharing content that insults foreign nations, leaders, or citizens could lead to legal consequences. This advisory noted that under cybercrime legislation, liability extends to those who repost or distribute harmful material.

Following this, Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued Royal Decree No. 99/2026, which introduces specific prison sentences of three months to three years for the deliberate insult of national symbols. This decree criminalizes acts of hatred or contempt toward the national flag, state emblem, or national anthem. The law also establishes updated official specifications for the flag and emblem and grants authorities the power to designate venues for the national anthem.

Entities

Oman · Council of Ministers · Haitham bin Tarik · Public Prosecution of Oman

Timeline

  1. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Oman implements prison sentences for insulting national symbols

    Oman has enacted Royal Decree No. 99/2026, establishing prison terms of up to three years for deliberately insulting the national flag, emblem, or anthem.

  2. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Oman warns of legal action for insulting foreign nations on social media

    Oman's Public Prosecution warns that reposting or sharing offensive content about foreign nations or leaders on social media can lead to criminal liability, including fines and imprisonment.

Sources

gulfnews.com · thearabianstories.com