The Arabian Stories, 7 January 2025: In a significant move towards judicial reform, a new Royal Decree in Oman has granted courts the power to suspend certain sentences, offering a more nuanced approach to justice.

Under Oman Sultani Decree No. 11/2025, courts can now stop the execution of fines or imprisonment sentences of less than three years, provided the convict’s character, history, age, or the crime’s context suggest a low risk of reoffending.

This progressive measure, however, excludes crimes related to state security, the state’s prestige, or terrorism and its financing.

The decree also permits the suspension of penal effects and additional penalties, except for confiscation, contingent upon the convict having a known place of residence.

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