New Maritime Regulations for Foreign Vessels in Oman

Pursuant to Decision No. 30/2026, dated January 26, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) of Oman, the “Regulation on the Management of Foreign Vessels and Marine Craft Activities in the Territorial Waters of the Sultanate of Oman” entered into force on February 2, 2026. This regulation repeals all previous conflicting provisions and establishes the procedures for navigation licenses, obligations of agents, ports, and marinas, as well as administrative sanctions.

Scope and Exemptions

The provisions apply to all foreign vessels and marine craft entering Omani territorial waters to conduct licensed activities.

• Exemptions: Foreign military vessels, vessels entering solely for loading/unloading operations at Omani ports, and emergency cases are excluded from the scope.
• Emergency Protocol: Vessels entering due to emergencies must depart Omani waters immediately upon the resolution of the emergency. Owners, operators, or captains are required to appoint a shipping agent and notify the maritime authority within 12 hours of entry.

Navigation License (Permit) Application Process

Foreign vessels must obtain a Navigation License before engaging in any activity within Omani territorial waters.

• Submission: Applications must be filed via a shipping agent using the prescribed form at least three working days prior to the vessel’s entry.
• Required Documentation: Certificate of Registry, Insurance Certificate, P&I (Protection and Indemnity) Insurance, relevant authority approvals for the specific activity, and any additional documents requested by the maritime authority.
• Decision Period: The authority reviews and decides on applications within three working days. If no response is provided within this period, the application is deemed tacitly rejected.

Obligations of Stakeholders

Foreign-Flagged Vessels and Marine Craft

• Refrain from photographing public or private property.
• Do not depart territorial waters without obtaining Port Clearance.
• Avoid entering protected or restricted areas without authorization.
• Conduct activities only at specified locations as stated in the license.
• Declare all carriage of arms and ammunition and obtain necessary permits.
• Maintain the AIS (Automatic Identification System) device in a continuous “ON” state.
• Depart territorial waters within 24 hours in the event of license expiration or revocation.

Shipping Agents

• Comply with residency laws and relevant legislation.
• Manage procedures regarding emergencies (e.g., deaths on board).
• Settle all fees, fines, and financial liabilities incurred during the license period.
• Register the vessel in the Royal Oman Police (ROP) Customs electronic system.
• Complete passport and customs formalities at the nearest entry point upon arrival and departure.

Commercial Ports, Jetties, and Tourist Marinas

• Reject vessels or cargo that are internationally sanctioned/prohibited.
• Comply with the instructions of the maritime authority and the Regulation.
• Notify the maritime authority before accepting vessels in emergency situations.
• Refuse entry to vessels without an appointed agent or a valid navigation license.

Administrative Sanctions

Violations of the Regulation are subject to sanctions including administrative fines (as specified in the annex of the Regulation), suspension of the navigation license, or revocation of the license.

Conclusion: A New Era of Oversight and Compliance

The Regulation replaces previous fragmented practices with a stricter, permit-based, and auditable regime. By imposing direct responsibilities on agents and port operators, Oman has established a multi-layered compliance mechanism. The emphasis on AIS connectivity, weapon declarations, and restricted zone protocols highlights a prioritized focus on national security and public order.

Maritime companies, agents, and port operators must review their contractual and operational workflows to ensure full alignment with this new regulatory framework.