Oman has considerably toughened its legal approach towards illicit drugs, enforcing severe punishments like the death penalty and huge financial penalties for serious violations. This order, made through Royal Decree No. 67/2026, replaces the old statutory system that existed in 1999. The new law acts as an aggressive deterrent to organized crime but ensures rehabilitation options for the victims of substance abuse. Oman Anti-Narcotics Law
The new law focuses on organized drug trade, smuggling activities, and manufacturing of illicit drugs with severe punishment measures. It states that those who engage in the importation, manufacture, or export of controlled drugs for trade shall be sentenced to prison in addition to punishments ranging from RO 35,000 and RO 60,000.
Capital punishment is reserved for high-level smuggling convictions under aggravating circumstances—such as repeated criminality, exploitation of official power or legal immunity, involvement of minors or vulnerable individuals, and operation within international syndicates.
To protect vulnerable public zones, lawmakers have instituted a minimum 15-year prison term and fines reaching RO 25,000 for local distribution and delivery. Offences occurring within or adjacent to educational institutions, sports complexes, religious sites, and correctional facilities carry elevated life sentences.
Conversely, the legislation balances punitive enforcement with public health considerations. Individuals possessing controlled items strictly for personal consumption face one to three years in prison and fines up to RO 5,000. However, the law explicitly exempts users from criminal prosecution if they voluntarily seek medical assistance or are brought forward for treatment by family members.
Courts now hold statutory authority to substitute prison terms with mandatory six-to-twelve-month rehabilitation programs at certified specialized medical centers, prioritizing recovery over incarceration for addicts.
Legal experts view the updated statutory framework as a vital modernization of Omani jurisprudence, aligning national anti-drug directives with evolving international security standards. By establishing rigorous oversight across border entry points while encouraging community-led addiction recovery, the law seeks to fortify domestic stability, dismantle transnational smuggling networks, and foster a safer social environment across all governorates.
