Saturday 11 / July / 2026
The Cybercrime Law issued under Royal Decree 61/2026 introduces detailed provisions on invasion of online privacy, addressing conduct committed through websites, information systems, or information technology means that violates the sanctity of private or family life.
Speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Zadjali, Chairman of Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm, explained that “the law prohibits eavesdropping, intercepting, recording, transferring, transmitting, or disclosing conversations, communications, or audio or video materials, and also forbids taking, transmitting, revealing, copying, or retaining photographs or video footage of others.” “These protections extend to online publications, making it an offence to publish news, electronic images, photographs, audio or video clips, comments, data, or information, even if true and accurate, with the intention of harming another person. The law also prohibits taking, transmitting, or publishing photographs of the injured, the deceased, or victims of accidents and disasters without the permission or consent of those concerned,” he said.
“Privacy safeguards further cover geographical location data, as tracking, monitoring, disclosing, transmitting, revealing, copying, or retaining another person’s location done with the intention of violating the sanctity of their private or family life is a punishable act. The law similarly criminalises modifying audio recordings, videos, or images of a third party with the intention of defaming, harming, or portraying that person in a way prejudicial to honour or dignity,” Dr. Al Zadjali noted.
He stated that “special protection is given to children under 15 and domestic workers by prohibiting their exploitation as negative media content, or the publication of material promoting violence or excessive terror directed at children. Violations of these provisions carry imprisonment ranging from 03 months to 03 years and a fine from OMR 1,000 to OMR 5,000, or either penalty.”
“He concluded by stating that these provisions reflect Oman’s commitment to protecting individuals’ privacy, honour, and dignity against violations committed through websites, information systems, and other information technology means, strengthening the legal framework for safeguarding privacy in the digital age.”
(Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm ([email protected]), (+968 244 87 600) was established on 14th December 2006 and is serving clients through its offices in Muscat and Sohar, as well as operating on a request basis in other areas. It offers legal representation across a wide range of practice areas that include Labour Law, Corporate, Commercial, Contracts, Banking and Finance, International Trade, Foreign Investment, Insurance, Maritime Law, Construction and Engineering Contracts, International Arbitration, Intellectual Property and more).
