Follow current Oman news, public announcements, events and source-linked updates in English and Arabic.
The Sultanate of Oman is participating in the meetings of the assemblies of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) member states. These meetings are being held in Geneva, Switzerland, from July 7 to 15, 2026. Ambassador Idris bin Abdul Rahman Al Khanjari, Oman's Permanent Representative, is heading the Omani delegation.
The Ministry of Social Development and the German University of Technology signed a cooperation agreement in Muscat on July 8, 2026. This agreement establishes a specialized training program for the employment and professional integration of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, and Down syndrome. It specifically focuses on providing vocational training opportunities for these individuals.
Bahla hosted an Open Day event to mark the International Year of Women Farmers 2026. The celebration aimed to highlight the developmental contributions of rural women in the agricultural and animal sectors. It also sought to foster partnerships between academic and research institutions to support food sustainability. The event underscored the importance of integrating institutional efforts to recognize and empower rural women.
The "Al-Rustaq from the Sky" exhibition commenced on July 8, 2026, in Al-Rustaq, South Al Batinah Governorate. This event is organized by the Al-Rustaq Arts Team, affiliated with the Al-Rustaq Sports Club, in collaboration with the office of the Wali of Al-Rustaq. The exhibition, which is a component of the Barzat 2026 Visual Arts Forum, will continue until July 11.
Major General Hamed bin Ahmed Sakroon, Head of the Academy of Strategic and Defence Studies, received a delegation from the Mediterranean Foundation for Strategic Studies (FMES) from the French Republic. The delegation was led by retired Admiral Pascal Ausseur. The meeting took place at Major General Sakroon's office in Bait Al Falaj Camp in Muscat.
The Ministry of Information, in collaboration with the Al Buraimi Governorate Office, conducted an introductory meeting on the Media Law and its executive regulations. The law was issued by Sultanate's Decree No. 58/2024. The session aimed to enhance awareness of media practices and freedom of expression, and to regulate related mechanisms.
Saudi shipping company Bahri announced that its giant tanker, Wadiyan, experienced an incident on Tuesday while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The company confirmed that the vessel remains seaworthy and its cargo is secure following the event.
The National Centre for Financial Information (NCFI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Anti-Money Laundering Office in the Kingdom of Thailand. The signing took place in Baku on July 8, 2026. Colonel Jumaa bin Mattar Al Dhahli, the Chief Executive Officer of the NCFI, signed the MoU on behalf of the Omani centre.
The Sultanate of Oman condemned military targeting incidents that affected the territories of Bahrain and Kuwait. Oman also condemned the targeting incidents involving Saudi and Qatari commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The Sultanate affirmed that escalatory actions threaten its security and the stability of energy supply chains.
South Al Batinah Governorate has experienced notable tourism and economic activity, demonstrating the success of local events in fostering sustainable development and promoting Omani agricultural products. The second edition of the Grape Festival, held in Al Awabi Wilayat, contributed to this positive impact, supporting the region's economy and highlighting its local produce. This reflects the successful integration of cultural events with economic growth.
The agricultural sector in Al Buraimi Governorate is witnessing the implementation of the first integrated investment project specializing in fruit trees. Located in the Al Zuroob area of Mahdha Wilayat, the project has an investment value exceeding OMR 171,000. It aims to cultivate, produce, and market fig crops, thereby enhancing agricultural production in the governorate.
A specialized medical team from Al Nahdha Hospital performed the first two specialized oral, facial, and maxillofacial surgeries at Al Suwaiq Hospital on July 8, 2026. This marks the first time such operations have been conducted at Al Suwaiq Hospital. The initiative aims to enhance the decentralization and integration of specialized medical services and expand the scope of therapeutic services offered in the region.
Agricultural quarantine serves as Oman's primary defense to protect its agricultural resources from pests and plant diseases. Efforts in this sector go beyond mere inspection, also encompassing the simplification of procedures, enhancement of service efficiency, and promotion of partnerships. This system is key to ensuring food safety and investment in the Sultanate.
The National Heart Center at the Royal Hospital in Muscat successfully conducted five operations on July 8, 2026, to extract pacemaker and defibrillator leads through the vein. This achievement is a first for the Sultanate of Oman, representing a significant step in the center's ongoing efforts to enhance specialized medical services within the country. The procedures demonstrate advancements in cardiac care and local expertise.
The official price of Oman oil for September delivery was $71.36 today, July 8, 2026. This price reflects a rise of $5.01 compared to yesterday's price, which stood at $66.35 on Tuesday.
The Muscat Stock Exchange celebrated the listing and commencement of share trading for the Oman India Fertilizer Company (Omifco). This follows a successful public offering of 25 percent of its capital. The move is part of efforts to enhance the exchange with partnerships that reflect the performance of all economic sectors.
The InterContinental Muscat has been awarded the Green Key Certification, recognizing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship. This achievement reinforces the hotel's dedication to sustainable practices within the industry.
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) arrested an individual for stealing jewelry and sums of money from several houses. The arrest relates to crimes committed against residences located in Sinaw.
The Oman Investment Authority and the Jordanian Social Security Investment Fund have signed an agreement to establish a joint Omani-Jordanian investment company. This new entity is valued at 38.5 million Omani Riyals, marking a new phase of shared investment cooperation between Oman and Jordan. The agreement was signed in Muscat on July 8, 2026, aiming to enhance economic ties between the two nations.
The Al Dhahirah Governorate Police Command arrested nine individuals. These suspects are accused of luring a citizen through a social media platform, assaulting them, and then extorting money.
The committee concerned with regulating biotechnology uses, products, and genetic data protection in the Sultanate of Oman held an expanded ministerial meeting in Muscat on July 8, 2026. The meeting's purpose was to discuss the final draft of the National Biotechnology Strategy. Several Excellencies and Highnesses from sectors related to biotechnology participated in this discussion.
The "Al Majeedah Funded Enterprises 2026" exhibition has opened in Nizwa, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. Organized by the Directorate of SME Development in the governorate, the two-day event features 20 small and medium-sized enterprises. Several supporting financial institutions are also participating in the exhibition, which aims to showcase these businesses.
Ship tracking data revealed that at least four oil and gas tankers turned back from attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz. This occurred following renewed attacks on ships in the strategic waterway, which has heightened concerns regarding maritime supply.
The Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) participated in the Chefs de Mission Meeting for the 6th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games. This international event is scheduled to take place in Riyadh in 2026.
Oman's Tax Authority concluded an awareness campaign in Dhofar Governorate. This initiative, titled "Sustainable Tax Partnership and Renewed Awareness," is part of a broader field awareness program conducted by the Authority across various governorates in the Sultanate of Oman. The campaign aims to enhance tax awareness among the public and foster a culture of voluntary tax compliance.
The Environment Authority in Muscat launched its 'Zero Paper' initiative. This initiative reaffirms the authority's commitment to accelerating digital transformation and enhancing institutional performance by reducing paper usage within the organization.
Al-Shidhani discussed enhanced cooperation for Artificial Intelligence governance with the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union. During Oman's participation, Omani efforts to update legislation regarding modern technology developments were reviewed. The "Oman Lens" initiative also received a bronze award within the "AI for Good" program.
Oil prices increased after reports indicated that two ships were damaged near the Strait of Hormuz. This development has brought geopolitical risk premiums back to the market. There are growing concerns regarding the potential return of navigation disruptions in this vital energy passageway.
The United States and Iran exchanged military strikes, intensifying regional tensions. The US Central Command announced its forces conducted bombings on more than 80 targets within Iran. According to the Command's statement, American forces specifically aimed at air defense systems during these military actions.
Oman Air, in collaboration with its partner Discovery Travel, has announced the introduction of a new charter service connecting Bahrain and Salalah. This weekly flight is scheduled to commence on July 10, operating every Friday. The service aims to enhance travel options between the two destinations.
Gold prices experienced fluctuations today, showing both gains and losses. This volatility was influenced by growing concerns over inflation and increasing interest rates. New American attacks targeting Iran contributed to a rise in oil prices and the dollar's value, occurring ahead of the release of the Federal Reserve meeting minutes.
The US dollar maintained its highest level this week against most other currencies during early Asian trading. This rise followed the resumption of US attacks on Iran, leading to an escalation of geopolitical tension. The renewed tensions also contributed to an increase in oil prices.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) launched the 'Tars Platform' in Muscat on July 8, 2026. This initiative aims to enhance digital protection and improve readiness to respond to cyber risks. The platform is part of TRA's ongoing efforts to develop the digital security system, fostering a secure and reliable digital environment that keeps pace with technological transformations and monitors electronic fraud.
US oil prices climbed by nearly three percent in early trading today, building on the gains observed in the preceding session. This increase followed a series of military attacks by the US on Iran, which heightened concerns that a fragile truce could falter. The renewed tensions in the Middle East are contributing to volatility in global oil markets.
According to the Omani Haj Mission, 14,000 pilgrims from the Sultanate performed the holy Hajj this year. This figure represents the allocated quota for the current Hajj season, indicating that the full number of permitted pilgrims from Oman successfully completed their pilgrimage.
Muscat Municipality has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines focusing on workplace storage safety. This initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to promote safety and ensure secure working environments across the Governorate. The guidelines aim to enhance safer practices in workplaces throughout Muscat.
The Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, represented by the Oman Hajj Mission, held a press conference in Muscat on Wednesday. During the conference, they reviewed the successful completion of the 1447 AH Hajj season. The mission reported a high satisfaction rate of 98% for the season's services.
Majlis A'Shura is set to host the Minister of Labor to discuss key ministerial decisions. The agenda includes Ministerial Decision 602/2025, which governs work permits and work practice permits. Additionally, the discussion will cover Decision 44/2026.
The United States launched a series of strikes against Iran. This action followed attacks on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. The US CENTCOM reported these "powerful strikes" in response to the incidents involving commercial shipping in the critical waterway.
Al Seeb Club Academy, a leading football academy from the Sultanate of Oman, asserted its dominance in the Arab Elite Cup. The academy emerged victorious in the competition, which took place in Dubai, further solidifying its prominent standing.
The Muscat Stock Exchange (MSX) offers investors diverse opportunities to achieve steady returns. This is supported by Oman's stable economy, transparent regulations, and the government's ongoing initiatives as part of Oman Vision 2040. The market aims to provide a reliable environment for investment growth.
The Public Services Regulatory Authority, in cooperation with the Ministry of Labour, launched a new package under the "Nu'ahil Li Nu'makkin" national initiative. This program aims to build capabilities in the public services sector. The initiative announced 631 new job opportunities as part of qualification and employment projects. These opportunities are linked to the replacement of operating contracts.
An Omani company received a bronze award at a United Nations initiative in Geneva. The Sultanate of Oman concluded its participation in the UN's Global Dialogue on AI Governance. This event in Geneva brought together representatives from 193 member states, global technology companies, and civil and technical communities.
Four Asian nationals, including one woman, were arrested in Al Wusta governorate. The arrests were made in connection with the theft of electrical cables from a company operating within concession areas.
Oman's Consumer Protection Authority participated in the ninth meeting of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Consumer Protection Law and Policy. This meeting was held in Geneva from July 6 to 10. Oman's involvement underscores its commitment to strengthening its international role in advancing consumer protection legislation across global markets.
The Wilayat of Wadi Bani Khalid in North Al Sharqiyah Governorate experienced an abundant and diverse harvest of summer agricultural crops. The summer season began in the wilayat at the end of last April, leading to the collection of various produce.
The Director of the General Directorate of Education in South Al Batinah Governorate is reviewing the ongoing procedures for appointing new teachers for the 2026/2027 academic year. These procedures are being completed at the School Performance Development Department building within the Directorate.
The General Directorate of Education in Muscat Governorate, represented by its Human Resources Department, continues the appointment procedures for new Omani teachers. These procedures are for 677 new Omani teachers who will begin in the 2026 academic year.
