Muscat – The new Law on Combating Cybercrime, promulgated under Royal Decree No 61/2026, provides enhanced protection for children, introduces provisions to address the misuse of artificial intelligence and imposes fines of up to RO500,000 for serious offences, according to Dr Rashid bin Obaid Al Kaabi, Assistant to the Attorney General and official spokesperson for the Public Prosecution.

In an interview with Oman TV, Al Kaabi said crimes committed against children or content directed at them are classified as aggravated offences under the law, with legal proceedings initiated as a public action without the need for a complaint from any party.

He explained that the legislation covers a broad spectrum of cyber offences aimed at safeguarding the digital environment, including impersonation of public or private individuals, forgery of electronic data, theft of information, unauthorised alteration of data and destruction of electronic records.

Al Kaabi noted that the law also addresses developments in artificial intelligence by defining the technology and criminalising unlawful practices arising from its use, ensuring that emerging digital risks are covered by the legal framework.

According to the Public Prosecution spokesperson, the legislation adopts a comprehensive approach by providing protection on three levels: the state and its sovereignty, society and individuals.

He added that the law includes stringent financial penalties and very heavy fines for certain cybercrimes, reflecting the scale of the economic, political and social damage that can result from offences committed through modern technologies.

Al Kaabi said the legislation was drafted in line with leading international standards and best practices in combating cybercrime and digital misconduct.

He also highlighted the law’s role in strengthening confidence in Oman’s digital economy, noting that a secure legislative environment is essential for attracting investment and supporting technological innovation while protecting the rights of individuals and businesses.

Key offences and penalties

         •        Online drug trafficking and promotion: Using digital platforms to traffic in or promote narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances is punishable by death or life imprisonment, plus a fine of RO50,000-RO100,000.

         •        Online organised crime: Establishing, joining, supporting or cooperating with an organised criminal group through digital platforms carries five to ten years’ imprisonment and a fine of RO100,000-RO500,000.

         •        Human organ trafficking: Using digital platforms to traffic in or facilitate the trade of human organs is punishable by three to ten years’ imprisonment and a fine of RO25,000-RO150,000.

         •        Online pornography: Creating, producing, distributing or publishing pornographic content online carries one to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of RO1,000-RO3,000 or either penalty.

         •        Child pornography: Creating, distributing or possessing child pornography online is punishable by five to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of RO5,000-RO15,000. The same penalty applies if the offence targets a child or a person lacking legal capacity.