Oman Tightens Digital Media Law: Influencers, and Online Channel Operators Must Obtain Mandatory Licences

The Sultanate of Oman has intensified its regulation of the digital media landscape, reminding social media influencers, operators of news accounts, and managers of electronic channels that they must obtain the appropriate media licences before engaging in media-related activities online.

In a public notice, the Ministry of Information stressed that all individuals and entities carrying out media activities through digital platforms are required to comply with the provisions of the Media Law and its Executive Regulations. The requirement applies to a broad range of online media practitioners, including social media content creators, digital news publishers, electronic channel operators and others involved in producing or disseminating media content.

The Ministry made it clear that conducting media activities without the necessary licence constitutes a violation of Omani law and could result in legal action. The warning reflects the government's broader efforts to regulate the rapidly expanding digital media sector and ensure that online content creators operate within a recognised legal framework.

The latest reminder follows a series of regulatory measures introduced by Oman in recent years to modernise and strengthen oversight of the media industry. The Executive Regulations of the Media Law, issued following Royal Decree No. 58/2024, expanded licensing requirements to cover new and emerging forms of media, particularly those operating through digital and social media platforms. Omani authorities have described the reforms as part of a wider strategy to keep pace with technological changes and the growing influence of online content creators.

The Ministry has repeatedly emphasised the need for greater accountability in digital publishing. Earlier this year, it urged media institutions and practitioners to regularise their legal status and comply with licensing requirements before the expiry of a grace period granted to media entities. The latest announcement signals that authorities are now moving from awareness campaigns towards stricter enforcement.

The move comes amid growing government scrutiny of online content. In recent months, the Ministry has issued several public advisories warning against the dissemination of unverified information, rumours and content that could violate media regulations. It has also cautioned content creators about the publication of materials generated using artificial intelligence, stressing that AI-generated content remains subject to the same legal and regulatory standards as traditional media content.

Oman's media sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years, particularly on digital platforms. According to official figures, the Ministry of Information approved hundreds of media-activity licence applications during 2025, reflecting increasing demand for legal authorisation across the sector. Authorities view licensing as a mechanism to promote professional standards, accountability and responsible content creation while supporting the country's digital transformation goals under Oman Vision 2040.

The Ministry has advised individuals and organisations seeking guidance on licensing procedures to contact its specialised departments, including the Press and Media Licensing Department, the Media Activities Department and the Technical Classification Department during official working hours.

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