Lease Renewal in Oman (2026 Legal Guide) — Rules & Requirements
About this article
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's Rent Law gives tenants certain rights when a lease comes up for renewal:
- Automatic renewal: If neither party gives notice before the lease expires and the tenant continues to occupy the property, the lease is typically renewed on the same terms for a similar period.
- Right of first refusal: Existing tenants generally have priority to renew over new applicants, unless the landlord has a legitimate reason not to renew.
- Notice to vacate: If the landlord does not want to renew, they must give written notice (usually 3 months) before the lease end date.
- New terms: The landlord may propose new terms (including rent changes) at renewal, but must give adequate notice and the increase must be reasonable.
When does it apply?
- Your lease is approaching its expiry date.
- You want to stay in the property but the landlord wants you to leave.
- The landlord is offering a renewal at significantly different terms.
What to Do If Your Landlord Refuses to Renew Your Lease in Oman
- Start renewal discussions at least 3 months before the lease expires.
- If you want to renew, notify your landlord in writing.
- If the landlord refuses to renew without valid reasons, seek legal advice or file a complaint with the Primary Court.
- Negotiate new terms in writing — do not rely on verbal agreements.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not wait until the last day to discuss renewal — start early.
- Do not assume automatic renewal means the same rent — the landlord may propose changes with proper notice.
- Do not stay without a contract after your lease expires — this weakens your legal position.
About Housing Rights in Oman
Your tenancy in Oman sits under the Rent Law (Royal Decree 6/1989) and the Civil Transactions Law (Royal Decree 29/2013). Leases should be in writing and registered with the local municipality. Landlords can't raise rent mid-lease, and renewal increases must be reasonable. Security deposits are typically 1-2 months' rent. Landlords cover structural maintenance. Eviction needs valid grounds and a court order — self-help is illegal. Foreigners can only own freehold in Integrated Tourism Complexes under Royal Decree 12/2006, such as The Wave, Muscat Hills, and Jebel Sifah.
Common Questions
What is the lease renewal right in Oman?
Oman's Rent Law gives tenants certain rights when a lease comes up for renewal:Automatic renewal: If neither party gives notice before the lease expires and the tenant continues to occupy the property, the lease is typically renewed on the same terms for a similar period.Right of first refusal: Existing tenants generally have priority to renew over new applicants, unless the landlord has a legitimate reason not to renew.Notice to vacate: If the landlord does not want to renew, they must give written notice (usually 3 months) before the lease end date.New terms: The landlord may propose new...
When does it apply — lease renewal?
Your lease is approaching its expiry date.You want to stay in the property but the landlord wants you to leave.The landlord is offering a renewal at significantly different terms.
What should I do if my landlord in Oman will not renew my tenancy contract?
Start renewal discussions at least 3 months before the lease expires.If you want to renew, notify your landlord in writing.If the landlord refuses to renew without valid reasons, seek legal advice or file a complaint with the Primary Court.Negotiate new terms in writing — do not rely on verbal agreements.
What should you NOT do — lease renewal?
Do not wait until the last day to discuss renewal — start early.Do not assume automatic renewal means the same rent — the landlord may propose changes with proper notice.Do not stay without a contract after your lease expires — this weakens your legal position.