Selling on Instagram or WhatsApp, or planning an online store? Since Oman's e-commerce regulation was issued, selling online is a regulated activity, and an e-commerce licence is required before you start. This article explains who needs one, the conditions, how to apply, your obligations and the penalties.
The e-commerce regulation
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion issued Ministerial Decision 499/2023 regulating e-commerce, to develop and promote e-commerce, document local online stores and reduce online fraud.
Who needs a licence?
Anyone selling goods or services electronically, through a website, an app or social media accounts, whether an individual or a company, including home businesses selling on Instagram or WhatsApp.
Conditions
- Individuals: Omani nationals aged at least 18.
- Companies: registered in the commercial register.
- Non-Omanis: may engage in e-commerce under the Foreign Capital Investment Law, through a licensed entity.
How to apply
- Log in to the Oman Business Platform.
- Add the activity you wish to practise as e-commerce.
- Complete the store details and submit, paying a nominal fee that differs for local and foreign investment.
- The licence is issued for one, two or three years, as requested.
Your obligations
Display your licence number in your store and social media profiles, protect customer data and disclose how you do so, give clear product, price, delivery and returns information under the consumer protection law, consider verification on the "Maroof Oman" platform, and renew on time.
Penalties
Penalties range from warnings to fines of up to OMR 500, doubled for repeat offences, and unlicensed stores can be blocked and licences revoked.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence if I only sell on Instagram?
Yes. Social media selling is covered, and the licence number must appear on your profile.
Can an expatriate get an e-commerce licence?
The individual licence is for Omani nationals; non-Omanis trade online under the Foreign Capital Investment Law through a licensed entity.
If you are setting up an online store or facing a dispute or violation, see our e-commerce and competition lawyer service or contact Dr. Abdullah Al Rashdi Office on WhatsApp or +968 92000841.