Muscat – Car accessory shops across Oman are witnessing a sharp rise in business following the Royal Oman Police’s (ROP) decision to allow vehicle window tinting of up to 50% from the earlier limit of 30%, with some outlets reporting that demand for tinting services has more than doubled.

The revised regulation permits tinting of all side and rear windows up to a maximum of 50%, while the front windscreen must remain untinted. Vehicles with factory-tinted side windows are also permitted, provided light transmittance is not less than 30%.

As the new rule coincides with the peak summer season, the Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has intensified inspections of car accessory shops to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure compliance with consumer protection regulations.

The authority said inspection teams are monitoring pricing practices, checking transparency in services and taking legal action against businesses found exploiting consumers. It also urged motorists to report any violations through its official communication channels.

For many businesses, the revised regulation has already translated into a significant increase in customers.

Mohammed Farook, owner of a car accessories and decoration shop in Seeb, said demand for window tinting has risen sharply since the announcement.

“Before the decision, we used to receive three to five vehicles a day for tinting. Now we are serving around 11 vehicles daily,” he told Muscat Daily.

“The new regulation has given our business a significant financial boost. We strictly follow the approved 50% limit, which provides excellent protection from the heat while maintaining visibility and road safety.”

Salman Khan, owner of a car accessories shop in Ruwi, said the updated regulations have generated strong interest among motorists seeking legal window tinting.

“We have seen a clear increase in customer enquiries and bookings since the ROP announcement. Many customers had been waiting for the regulations to become clearer before tinting their vehicles,” he told Muscat Daily.

“Business has improved considerably over the past few days, particularly for 50% window tinting, which most customers believe offers the right balance between comfort, privacy and compliance with the law. With summer temperatures continuing to rise, we expect demand to remain strong in the coming weeks.”

Motorists have also welcomed the move, saying it provides much-needed relief during Oman’s intense summer.

Nasser Al Hosni said the new limit is especially beneficial for families and people who spend long hours on the road. “Oman experiences extremely high temperatures during the summer, and 50% tinting provides excellent protection from the sun. I travel frequently between governorates for work, so the added comfort is important. It is also ideal for families travelling with children,” he said.

Another motorist Ahmed Al Balushi said the revised regulation is likely to encourage greater compliance among motorists. “When regulations reflect the country’s climate and the practical needs of motorists, people are more willing to follow them. The 50% limit is reasonable and strikes a good balance between comfort and safety,” he said.