Mental Health Rights 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 is expanding its mental health services and recognises patient rights in this area:
- Access to care: Mental health services are available at MOH hospitals and specialised clinics, with Al Masarra Hospital serving as the national psychiatric facility in Muscat.
- Voluntary treatment: Mental health treatment is generally voluntary — you cannot be forced into treatment except in specific emergency situations.
- Involuntary admission: A person can only be involuntarily admitted if they pose an immediate danger to themselves or others, and this requires a medical assessment and legal authorisation.
- Confidentiality: Mental health records are strictly confidential within the DARIS system and subject to the same privacy protections as other medical records.
- Non-discrimination: Persons with mental health conditions cannot be discriminated against in employment or public services solely because of their condition.
When does it apply?
- You or a family member needs mental health treatment in Oman.
- Someone is being involuntarily committed to Al Masarra Hospital or another facility and you want to know their rights.
- You have experienced discrimination because of a mental health condition.
What to Do If You or a Family Member Cannot Access Mental Health Services in Oman
- Visit a government health centre or polyclinic for a mental health referral — MOH primary care doctors can refer you to specialists.
- If a family member is involuntarily admitted, request the legal basis for the admission and verify it meets the requirements.
- Contact Al Masarra Hospital directly for specialised psychiatric care and support services.
- Call the MOH health hotline at 1212 for guidance on available mental health services.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not ignore mental health symptoms — treatment is available and seeking help is not a sign of weakness.
- Do not attempt to have someone committed without proper medical and legal procedures.
- Do not share another person's mental health information — it is confidential under the Personal Data Protection Law.
Common Questions
When does it apply — mental health rights?
You or a family member needs mental health treatment in Oman.Someone is being involuntarily committed to Al Masarra Hospital or another facility and you want to know their rights.You have experienced discrimination because of a mental health condition.
What should I do if I need mental health treatment in Oman and do not know where to go or how to access it?
Visit a government health centre or polyclinic for a mental health referral — MOH primary care doctors can refer you to specialists.If a family member is involuntarily admitted, request the legal basis for the admission and verify it meets the requirements.Contact Al Masarra Hospital directly for specialised psychiatric care and support services.Call the MOH health hotline at 1212 for guidance on available mental health services.
What should you NOT do — mental health rights?
Do not ignore mental health symptoms — treatment is available and seeking help is not a sign of weakness.Do not attempt to have someone committed without proper medical and legal procedures.Do not share another person's mental health information — it is confidential under the Personal Data Protection Law.