Price Controls in Oman
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
While Oman is generally more affordable than the UAE or Qatar, the CPA actively monitors and enforces pricing rules, particularly during Ramadan and national holidays:
- Price gouging: It is illegal to raise prices excessively on essential goods, especially during emergencies, Ramadan, or shortages. The CPA ramps up inspections during these periods.
- Price display: All products must have clearly displayed prices in Omani Rials. Hidden costs are prohibited.
- Essential goods: The government can set maximum prices on staple foods, fuel, and essential items during crises.
- Price monitoring: The CPA conducts regular market inspections and publishes price comparison reports. Businesses caught charging more than the displayed price face immediate penalties.
- Receipts: Businesses must provide itemised receipts showing the price of each product or service.
When does it apply?
- You are being charged more than the displayed price for a product.
- A seller is price gouging on essential goods during Ramadan or a shortage.
- A business refuses to give you a receipt or provides an incomplete one.
What to Do If a Seller in Oman Charges More Than the Displayed Price or Price Gouges
- Check the displayed price before purchasing and compare it with the amount charged.
- If overcharged, request a correction from the seller and keep the receipt as evidence.
- Report price violations to the CPA by calling 1222 — include photos of the displayed price and the receipt showing the higher charge.
- During Ramadan or emergencies, check CPA announcements for any regulated maximum prices on staple goods.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not pay without checking the price — always verify before completing the transaction.
- Do not hoard essential goods during shortages — this can also lead to CPA penalties.
- Do not accept "prices subject to change" at the point of sale — the displayed price must be honoured.
Common Questions
When does it apply — price controls?
You are being charged more than the displayed price for a product.A seller is price gouging on essential goods during Ramadan or a shortage.A business refuses to give you a receipt or provides an incomplete one.
What should I do if I am charged more than the marked price or notice price gouging on essential goods in Oman?
Check the displayed price before purchasing and compare it with the amount charged.If overcharged, request a correction from the seller and keep the receipt as evidence.Report price violations to the CPA by calling 1222 — include photos of the displayed price and the receipt showing the higher charge.During Ramadan or emergencies, check CPA announcements for any regulated maximum prices on staple goods.
What should you NOT do — price controls?
Do not pay without checking the price — always verify before completing the transaction.Do not hoard essential goods during shortages — this can also lead to CPA penalties.Do not accept "prices subject to change" at the point of sale — the displayed price must be honoured.