MoSD warns against unauthorised fundraising

MUSCAT, APRIL 11

Establishing associations, clubs or forums without prior approval from the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) is illegal in Oman, with violators subject to penalties under the country’s Law on Non-Profit Organisations.

The ministry has also reiterated that soliciting or collecting funds from the public — whether in person or through digital platforms — without official authorisation is a violation of the law.

Speaking to Observer, Majed bin Said al Faraji, Associations Specialist at the Department of Civil Society Organisations Development, said that forming non-profit entities, volunteer groups or expatriate community clubs without a licence constitutes a clear legal breach.

“Such activities require direct regulation and supervision by the competent authority, namely the Ministry of Social Development,” he said.

Al Faraji stressed that fundraising through WhatsApp groups and social media platforms also falls under prohibited activities unless conducted in line with approved regulations.

The Ministry clarified that donation campaigns are only permitted for officially licensed entities that have obtained prior approval and operate through authorised channels to ensure transparency and protect donors.

“These regulations require that the entity be licensed and obtain prior authorisation before collecting funds, while adhering to approved platforms,” Al Faraji added.

Authorities also warned against individuals personally soliciting donations, urging the public to verify the legitimacy of any fundraising appeals circulated online before contributing.

Civil society organisations in Oman are governed by the Royal Decree No 14/2000 and its amendments, which set out requirements for registration, governance and financial oversight.

The law mandates that organisations must be officially registered with the Ministry, have a defined constitution outlining objectives and structure, and operate on a non-profit basis serving social or charitable goals, while remaining subject to government supervision.

The Ministry emphasised that no civil society activity or charitable initiative may be undertaken without prior official approval, reinforcing the need for compliance to ensure accountability and public trust.