Oman Court Imposes OMR 15,815 Fine and Jail Term in Travel and Tourism Consumer Protection Case
Oman’s Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has confirmed a court ruling against a travel and tourism business in Muscat Governorate after multiple consumer complaints were filed alleging failure to deliver agreed services.
Consumers reported that the company failed to issue confirmed tickets within the agreed timeframes, cancelled trips without advance notice, did not implement the agreed tourism programmes, and delayed delivery of confirmed reservations. The complaints involved various amounts of money paid by customers for services that were not provided as agreed.
After efforts to resolve the disputes through settlement were unsuccessful, the CPA referred the cases to the Public Prosecution. The court reviewed the evidence and found both the establishment and its representative guilty of violating consumer protection standards and failing to uphold contractual obligations.
The court imposed the following penalties:
• Imprisonment: The company’s representative was sentenced to three months in jail for failing to provide services in accordance with the agreed terms.
• Financial Penalties: A total fine of OMR 15,815 was imposed, distributed as follows:
– Fines issued against the establishment and its representative,
– Refunds to consumers for amounts paid for services not rendered,
– Compensation awarded to affected consumers for losses incurred.
• Legal Costs: The convicted party was also ordered to bear the costs of the public prosecution.
Authorities say this ruling demonstrates a firm commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and enforcing compliance with the Consumer Protection Law, particularly within the travel and tourism sector.
Officials emphasised that all businesses operating in Oman must honour their contractual obligations, provide services as agreed, and comply with consumer protection regulations. Those that fail to do so risk legal action, including fines and criminal penalties.
The Consumer Protection Authority also stated it will continue to monitor the travel and tourism sector closely and take appropriate legal measures to protect consumers and uphold service standards across the industry.
