Royal Decree No. 7/2018 issuing the Penal Code.

The Omani Penal Code, consisting of 389 articles, provides the main legal framework for protecting public order, individual rights, and state interests. It is divided into two main books that establish the general principles of criminal law and define criminal offences and penalties. Book One sets out the general rules governing criminal liability, including the application of the law, classification of crimes, elements of criminal responsibility, complicity, exemptions from liability, pardons, and the system of punishments, including aggravating and mitigating circumstances. Book Two defines specific crimes and their penalties, covering offences against state security, organized crime, public safety, public confidence, public office, justice, morality, religion, human life, liberty, property, and commerce. It includes crimes such as forgery, corruption, arson, assault, kidnapping, theft, fraud, embezzlement, and bankruptcy. The preliminary provisions set the basic principles of Criminal Law, including legality (no crime or punishment without law), presumption of innocence, right of defence, and individual responsibility. They clarify that punishments are generally discretionary unless fixed penalties apply, and that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. The provisions also define key legal terms such as “night,” “publicity,” “public official,” and “public property,” and regulate procedural aspects like the calendar system. Finally, they confirm that criminal penalties do not prevent civil claims such as restitution or compensation.
The Code includes provisions on public health and general environmental danger, imposing stricter penalties in cases where negligence or harmful acts endanger people or public infrastructure. Article 197 increases punishment when the abandonment of duty by a public official places human life, health, or safety at risk. Article 155(a) provides severe penalties for intentionally setting fire to oil or gas wells, mines, or related production and transportation infrastructure. Article 217 penalizes the neglect or misuse of public property when such conduct exposes the property itself or the safety of individuals to danger.
The Penal Code includes provisions aimed at protecting water resources and related infrastructure. Article 375(b) prohibits the use of harmful methods to destroy aquatic life in water resources, pools, or basins, including poison, explosives, chemical substances, or electrical means. Article 344 criminalizes the misappropriation of public utilities and services, expressly covering the unauthorized taking of water. Article 155(d) imposes a severe penalty of imprisonment for the intentional burning or destruction of a water plant.
The provisions on the protection of animals and wildlife establish criminal liability for various forms of harm or abuse against animals. Article 375(a) penalizes anyone who willfully and without justification kills or causes physical harm to riding, towing, or pack animals, as well as cattle belonging to others. Article 376 extends protection to other animals, including poultry, domesticated animals, and bees, by criminalizing their intentional and unjustified killing or destruction when owned by others. Article 374 specifically prohibits engaging in sexual or indecent acts with animals, ensuring their protection from abuse and exploitation.