Domestic Violence Protections
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Omani royal decrees, ministerial decisions, and the Basic Statute of the State.
Omani National Law
What is this right?
Oman enacted a dedicated Anti-Domestic Violence Law in 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 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 (ROP), the Ministry of Social Development, or call the domestic violence hotline.
- Shelters: The government provides shelter and support services for victims through the Ministry of Social Development.
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 should you do?
- Call the Royal Oman Police (emergency: 9999) if you are in immediate danger.
- File a report at the nearest police 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, 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 for guidance.
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