Muscat – His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has issued two new Royal Decrees aimed at defining the roles of the Foreign Ministry and establishing a legal framework for the Diplomatic and Consular Corps.
Royal Decree No. 21/2025: Defining the Foreign Ministry’s Specializations
This decree outlines the Foreign Ministry’s authority and responsibilities in handling Oman’s foreign relations and international cooperation.
- Article 1: Confirms that the Foreign Ministry will serve as the central authority for all foreign affairs, with its specific duties detailed in the annex attached to the decree.
- Article 2: Annuls any prior regulations that contradict or conflict with this decree.
- Article 3: Mandates the publication of this decree in the Official Gazette, with immediate enforcement from the date of issue.
Royal Decree No. 22/2025: Diplomatic and Consular Corps Law
This decree establishes a structured legal framework for Oman’s diplomatic and consular services.
- Article 1: Enforces the new Diplomatic and Consular Corps Law as outlined in the attached document.
- Article 2: Ensures that all current diplomatic and consular staff retain their existing positions, salaries, and benefits.
- Article 3: Grants the Foreign Minister authority to issue executive regulations and decisions necessary for implementing the law, subject to approval from relevant authorities. Until new regulations are enacted, existing rules will remain in effect unless they contradict the new law.
- Article 4: Repeals the Foreign Ministry’s previous regulatory framework established under Royal Decree No. 32/2008, along with any conflicting laws or provisions.
- Article 5: Orders the publication of this decree in the Official Gazette, with enforcement starting the day after publication.
These Royal Decrees mark a significant step in strengthening Oman’s diplomatic framework and ensuring a more structured and effective approach to international relations.
