The government of Oman has taken a major decision regarding the security and sovereignty of its maritime zone. Now foreign vessels carrying out any kind of activity in Oman’s territorial sea will first have to obtain an official navigation license. This rule will apply not only to commercial vessels but also to research and fishing vessels.
For which vessels is it mandatory to obtain a license?
Oman’s legal expert Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Zadjali has shared information about this new rule. According to him, it is now legally necessary to obtain permission before carrying out any type of activity within the maritime limits of Oman. It includes these main points:
Foreign ships engaged in commercial operations and transportation of goods Boats engaged in fishing and exploitation of marine resources Ships engaged in scientific research Foreign companies extracting resources from the sea
What will be the impact on shipping companies and workers?
This new rule is under discussion from 15 February 2026 and will have a direct impact on international shipping and logistics companies. Indian seafarers and people associated with the shipping sector working in Gulf countries will now have to check their documents before entering the border of Oman. Failure to follow the rules may result in the ship being detained or legal action may be taken. Application for license will have to be made as per the rules decided by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology.
