Police Encounters
Your rights during arrest, detention, and search under Oman criminal procedure law, the Basic Statute, and the Penal Code.
Right to Know Charges
If you are arrested or detained in Oman, you have the right to be told why:Immediate notification: The arresting officer must inform you of the reason for your arrest at the time of detention.Written...
Right to Legal Representation
Everyone in Oman has the right to a lawyer during criminal proceedings:Right to a lawyer: You may hire a lawyer of your choice at any stage of the investigation or trial.Court-appointed lawyer: In ser...
Right Against Arbitrary Detention
Oman's constitution and criminal procedure law protect you from being held without legal basis:No arbitrary arrest: You cannot be arrested or detained except under conditions prescribed by law.48-hour...
Rights During Search
Your home and personal property are protected from unlawful searches in Oman:Home protection: The Basic Statute (Article 21) guarantees the inviolability of the home — police cannot enter without a wa...
Right to Humane Treatment
All persons in Oman are protected from torture and inhumane treatment, whether during arrest, detention, or imprisonment:Torture is prohibited: The Basic Statute and Penal Code explicitly forbid the u...
Right to Contact Embassy
Foreign nationals arrested in Oman have the right to contact their embassy or consulate:Consular notification: Police must inform you of your right to contact your embassy upon arrest.Embassy access:...
Juvenile Rights
Oman has special protections for minors (under 18) who come into contact with the criminal justice system:Age of criminal responsibility: Children under 9 years old cannot be held criminally responsib...
Right to Appeal
If you are convicted of a crime in Oman, you have the right to challenge the verdict through higher courts:Right to appeal: The Basic Statute guarantees the right to appeal convictions and sentences t...