Muscat: The Ministry of Information (MoI) announced the issuance of the executive regulation of the Media Law, which sets out the framework for licensing, regulating, and overseeing media activities in the Sultanate of Oman.
The regulation defines the key terms and general provisions governing the media sector. It outlines licensing procedures for those seeking to engage in media activities, which specifies conditions and controls for practicing such activities, and details the rights and obligations of media practitioners.
According to the regulation, media activities that require prior licensing include news agencies, press institutions, audio-visual broadcasting channels, and printing, publishing, and distribution houses. It also covers media services and consultancies, electronic press and websites, and the re-broadcasting of any media content within the country.
The regulation extends to electronic media activities, advertising and publicity services, and the operation of social media platforms classified as media activities under the law.
Meanwhile, the new regulations have set out detailed provisions to ensure compliance with national standards and legal frameworks.
According to the regulations, licensing for media activities is subject to specific conditions, including that the applicant’s trade name must not resemble that of another license holder or imply affiliation with a government body. Names containing terms such as “Oman”, “Omani”, or their derivatives are also prohibited.
The regulations further stipulate that the licensee’s trade name must not represent villages, wilayats, governorates, or tribes, nor should it contain discriminatory connotations based on gender, origin, religion, language, colour, or social status. Applicants are required to provide a comprehensive description of their trade name.
Additional requirements include providing a fixed office address, contact details, and ensuring that the license holder’s criminal record does not reflect any convictions for dishonesty or breaches of trust. Applicants must also attach a certificate of good conduct, along with proof of relevant professional experience, particularly for those seeking licences in specialised fields.
The regulations also prohibit the addition of new media activities to the licence if they fall outside the scope of the approved commercial activity. Media establishments are required to operate strictly within the limits of their authorised activity.
By setting clear guidelines, the new regulatory framework aims to safeguard the integrity of media practices, promote professionalism, and align media activity with national priorities.
The Executive Regulation of the Media Law comprises 144 articles that regulate all aspects related to media activities and media professionals in the Sultanate of Oman. It sets measures for importing print materials or related artistic works. It explains whether or not a case requires a license from the Ministry of Information, licensing procedures needed for practicing media activities and determinants that guide licensees as they engage in media activities.
Those who practise media activities stated in the Executive Regulation of the Media Law, notably new and emerging media entities, are required to obtain a license from the Ministry of Information in accordance with the terms and conditions stipulated in the law, as soon as the executive regulation of this statute enters into force.
Article 2 of Ministerial Resolution No. (342/2020) grants the parties licensed before the issuance of the Executive Regulation a period of 180 days from the date of its implementation to adjust their conditions.
Executive Regulation of the Media Law specifies journalism and media professions addressed by the Media Law, as well as the rights and obligations of those licensed to practise journalism and media activities (including the right to obtain a license from the Ministry of Information in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the executive regulations of the law).
By issuing this regulation, the ministry seeks to strengthen the governance of the media sector, ensure professional standards, and safeguard the rights and responsibilities of all media stakeholders in line with national legislation.
