Muscat – Oman has strengthened legal protections for its cultural and geological heritage through Royal Decree No 62/2026, introducing sweeping amendments to the Cultural Heritage Law that expand the scope of preservation measures and impose stricter penalties for offences involving meteorites and archaeological assets.

The amendments reflect the sultanate’s commitment to safeguarding its tangible and intangible heritage while reinforcing national identity and aligning with international standards for cultural preservation.

Among the key changes is the expansion of the definition of the ‘competent authority’ to include both the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, each exercising responsibilities within its respective jurisdiction. The move is intended to improve coordination in documenting, managing and protecting Oman’s heritage resources.

The revised law broadens protection to cover tangible, intangible, movable, immovable and underwater cultural heritage. It also introduces the concept of ‘Omani World Cultural Heritage’, referring to sites registered or nominated for Unesco Heritage List, underscoring Oman’s engagement with global heritage conventions.

A new section dedicated to geological heritage recognises scientifically valuable features such as rock formations, fossils, meteorites and distinctive landforms. The law prohibits the removal or borrowing of geological samples except for approved scientific research or museum exhibitions and only with prior authorisation from the competent authority.

Meteorites receive enhanced legal protection under the amendments. Smuggling them is now punishable by imprisonment of between four and ten years and fines ranging from RO20,000 to RO150,000, or either of the two penalties. Additional sanctions apply to the illegal possession, sale or destruction of meteorites.

The law also requires archaeological discoveries to be reported within 48 hours, with authorities obligated to take appropriate action within 60 days. It further introduces clearer licensing procedures for private museums, heritage galleries and activities involving the trade or export of heritage objects.

The government said executive regulations will be updated to implement the amendments and that awareness and training programmes will be expanded to support compliance, reaffirming that preserving cultural heritage remains a national priority for future generations.