Muscat: Seeking to clamp down on expatriate drivers using their vehicles to provide illegal passenger transportation and goods delivery services, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) has clarified that expatriates are prohibited from owning or operating four-wheel (4WD) vehicles unless they possess a family joining visa.
The Observer has learnt that new registration of expatriate-owned 4WD hevicles is liable to be rejected by the ROP unless the owner can prove that their vehicles will not be put to illicit use. According to the ROP, expats will be able to register 4WD in their names only if they possess a family joining visa.
Khalid, who successfully found an expat buyer for his Chinese 4WD vehicle, was initially pleased with the agreement on the price. However, his excitement turned to disappointment when he and the buyer approached the ROP traffic department for registration, only to be informed that it was not allowed due to the buyer's family not being present in the country.
Khalid believes these regulations aim to prevent illicit activities associated with such vehicles, but he lamented missing out on the opportunity to sell his vehicle.
The traffic department of ROP clarified that expatriates can only own a four-wheel vehicle if their family is residing in the country, as this requirement serves as a justification for ownership. Without their family's presence, there is no basis for possessing such a car, explained ROP officials.
Furthermore, ROP strictly prohibits expatriates from owning pickup trucks intended for commercial purposes, including compact, mini, midsize, or coupe trucks. However, expatriates can register Luxury/Heavy Duty pickup trucks under their names if they can demonstrate that these vehicles serve a legitimate purpose aligned with their professional responsibilities. Notably, popular brands like Tahoe, GMC, RAM, and similar models fall into this category. Nevertheless, expatriates are prohibited from using these vehicles for transportation purposes, especially if their driver's license only applies to 'private light' vehicles.
Exceptions are made for expatriates employed in specific professional roles such as managers, technicians, engineers, and other similar positions. These individuals are eligible to own and register such vehicles, as confirmed by the official statements.
ROP warns that if an expatriate is caught using a 4WD or pickup truck for commercial purposes, they will face a fine of RO 35. In case of repeated offenses, their case will be escalated to the Public Prosecution for further action. The enforcement emphasises the seriousness of adhering to these regulations.
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