Two Royal Decrees in Oman: New E-Transactions Law Approved and First-Class License for Satellite Communications Issued

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik issued two Royal Decrees on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, enacting a new Electronic Transactions Law and granting a first-class license to a satellite communications company to establish and operate a national system for fixed public telecommunications services.

Royal Decree No. 39/2025: Enacting the New Electronic Transactions Law

The new law replaces the 2008 version and aims to modernize Oman’s legal framework in line with technological advancements and digital economy goals. It covers:

• Legal recognition of electronic signatures and documents
• Data protection and user privacy
• Regulation of e-certification service providers
• Penalties for digital violations and fraud

The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is tasked with issuing the executive regulations and implementing the law.

Royal Decree No. 40/2025: First-Class License for Satellite Communications

A first-class license has been granted to Space Communication Technologies SPC to establish and operate a satellite-based system for providing fixed public telecom services in Oman.

This move aligns with the national vision to:

• Strengthen digital and communications infrastructure
• Reduce reliance on foreign technologies
• Advance technological sovereignty and global connectivity

Both decrees are effective from the date of issuance and will be published in the Official Gazette.