Muscat – The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) has urged businesses, manufacturers and importers to obtain the necessary licences and approvals before producing, incorporating or marketing commercial and promotional materials bearing Oman’s national flag or State Emblem.

The ministry’s advisory comes ahead of national occasions, when the use of national symbols on gifts, products, advertisements and promotional materials typically increases. It stressed that participation in national celebrations must comply with the law to safeguard the dignity and significance of the country’s symbols.

MoCIIP received 20 applications for permission to use the national flag and State Emblem on commercial and promotional materials in 2025, while more than 20 applications have been submitted so far this year.

Ali bin Hamad bin Saif Al Mamari, Director of the Licensing Department at MoCIIP, said the national flag and State Emblem represent Oman’s sovereignty, identity and status and should not be treated merely as commercial or marketing tools.

He said private sector participation in national occasions was appreciated as an expression of patriotism, but emphasised that businesses must adhere to the relevant legal provisions.

Under the Law on the State Flag, Emblem and National Anthem, promulgated by Royal Decree No. 53/2004, national symbols are protected by legislation governing their design and use.

Article 12 of the law, as amended by Royal Decree No. 28/2018, prohibits the use of the State Emblem as a trademark or for commercial advertising and promotional purposes. It also restricts incorporating the emblem into logos, designs and images, or placing it on products manufactured locally or imported, without the required prior authorisation.

The law further prohibits the display or sale of materials produced in violation of the applicable regulations.

Regarding the national flag, Al Mamari said Article 10 of the Executive Regulation, issued under Diwani Decision No. 29/2013, requires manufacturers and importers to obtain a ministry licence and approval from the competent authority before manufacturing or importing materials bearing the flag.

MoCIIP said its Licensing Department processes applications and verifies compliance, while awareness initiatives seek to familiarise businesses with the applicable requirements.

The ministry called on commercial establishments to verify the rules and secure the necessary approvals before commencing production or import activities, stressing that national occasions do not exempt businesses from complying with the law.