Domestic Violence Protections 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?
Oman enacted a dedicated Anti-Domestic Violence Law (Royal Decree 8/2021) to protect family members from abuse:
- Definition: Domestic violence includes physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse between family members or household members.
- Protection orders: Victims can apply to the Sharia court for a protection order requiring the abuser to stay away, leave the family home, or stop contact.
- Criminal penalties: Domestic violence is a criminal offence. Penalties include imprisonment and fines, with harsher sentences for repeat offenders and abuse of children or elderly persons.
- Reporting: Victims can report to the Royal Oman Police (9999), the Ministry of Social Development, or through the domestic violence hotline.
- Shelters: The Ministry of Social Development provides shelter and support services for victims of family violence.
When does it apply?
- You are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse from a family or household member.
- A child or elderly person in your household is being abused.
- You need a protection order to keep the abuser away from you.
What to Do If You Are Experiencing Domestic Violence or Family Abuse in Oman
- Call the Royal Oman Police (emergency: 9999) if you are in immediate danger.
- File a report at the nearest ROP station or contact the Ministry of Social Development.
- Apply for a protection order through the court — you can do this with or without filing criminal charges.
- Seek medical treatment and document your injuries with a medical report.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not stay silent — domestic violence is a crime in Oman under Royal Decree 8/2021, and help is available.
- Do not destroy evidence — keep photos of injuries, threatening messages, and medical reports.
- Do not return to the abuser without a safety plan — contact a social worker at the Ministry of Social Development for guidance.
Common Questions
When does it apply — domestic violence protections?
You are experiencing physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse from a family or household member.A child or elderly person in your household is being abused.You need a protection order to keep the abuser away from you.
What should I do if I am being physically or psychologically abused by a family member in Oman?
Call the Royal Oman Police (emergency: 9999) if you are in immediate danger.File a report at the nearest ROP station or contact the Ministry of Social Development.Apply for a protection order through the court — you can do this with or without filing criminal charges.Seek medical treatment and document your injuries with a medical report.
What should you NOT do — domestic violence protections?
Do not stay silent — domestic violence is a crime in Oman under Royal Decree 8/2021, and help is available.Do not destroy evidence — keep photos of injuries, threatening messages, and medical reports.Do not return to the abuser without a safety plan — contact a social worker at the Ministry of Social Development for guidance.