Latest news with #RO50
Muscat Daily
12-04-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Oman launches campaign to regulate tree planting outside homes
Muscat – Authorities in Muscat governorate have launched a public awareness campaign to ensure residents follow proper procedures when planting trees outside their residential properties. The move is part of wider efforts to promote safe, organised landscaping and protect public infrastructure. The Office of the Governor of Muscat stated that a permit is required before planting trees beyond the boundaries of private plots. Residents who do not comply face a fine of RO100, along with the removal or correction of the violation. To encourage greener surroundings in a regulated manner, residents must obtain a minor building permit before planting trees outside their property lines. The permit costs RO50 and helps ensure that planting does not interfere with infrastructure or obstruct public access. Applications can be submitted online via the Muscat Municipality website ( or at Sanad Service Centres. The campaign sets out clear guidelines for legal planting. These include maintaining safe distances from roads, property boundaries and utility infrastructure. Only areas directly adjacent to a resident's home may be used, and only with prior approval. Tree species must be selected carefully to avoid damage to underground pipes, pavements, and public pathways. Certain locations have been designated as restricted planting zones. These include vehicle entryways, shared spaces between plots, public utility zones, areas not defined in official land surveys, locations near electrical facilities, and street corners where trees may block visibility. The regulations also provide standards for fencing around landscaped areas. Permanent construction materials are not permitted. Acceptable alternatives include kerbstone barriers up to 20cm in height, green mesh enclosures around individual trees up to 1.5m, and hedges no taller than 50cm. The governorate's office stressed that while green spaces improve the visual and environmental quality of urban areas, unregulated planting and non-compliant enclosures can pose safety risks and disrupt access to essential services.
Muscat Daily
18-03-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Ramadan sparks surge in volunteerism across Oman
Muscat – Communities across Oman are coming together in a wave of volunteerism during Ramadan. Driven by compassion and a collective sense of duty, citizens and residents are stepping up to make a tangible difference in the lives of the less fortunate. Muscat Daily spoke with several volunteers to gain insight into the surge in volunteerism during the holy month. From distributing iftar meals to migrant workers to delivering food baskets to low-income families, the acts of kindness are diverse and impactful. Sheikh Ali Awad al Raoud, Chairman of Salalah Sports Club, noted the remarkable rise in community engagement. 'Volunteering is on the rise with individuals from all walks of life contributing their time and resources to foster social solidarity, particularly during Ramadan. The participation of both youth and elders has been truly heartening.' Sheikh Ali Awad al Raoud, Chairman of Salalah Sports Club Highlighting the scale of the efforts, Raoud informed that Salalah Sports Club is distributing iftar meals and food packages worth over RO50,000 this Ramadan through Hayat Charity Team. 'These initiatives not only provide immediate relief but also strengthen community bonds, creating a culture of mutual support and compassion,' he added. Suhail Salim Bait Saeed, Chairman of Taitam Volunteer Team in Taqah, emphasised the profound social and humanitarian impact of volunteer work. 'Our volunteers dedicate their time and effort without expecting material gain. Their mission extends beyond relief; it's about fostering sustainable programmes that uplift communities,' he explained. Saeed added that donations – whether financial or material – are carefully managed to ensure they reach the most vulnerable populations across various governorates. The spiritual essence of volunteering during Ramadan was underscored by Ibrahim al Ramli, imam of a mosque in Seeb. 'Ramadan is a time when hearts open and there's greater resolve to do good. Volunteerism during this month is not only about helping the needy but also about nurturing spiritual growth and unity within communities,' he said. The imam urged individuals not to overlook the profound spiritual rewards that come with acts of charity during this sacred time. Adel bin Khamis Yousef, a member of Sur Charity Team, shared a personal perspective on the significance of volunteerism. 'For me, volunteering adds purpose and meaning to life. It's about making a difference that lasts beyond one's lifetime.' Yousef also called for stronger partnership between public and private sectors to further promote a culture of giving, particularly among the youth. 'Recognising the efforts of volunteers is vital to sustaining their commitment and inspiring future generations,' he added. 'Volunteerism is not only a powerful force for social change but also a cornerstone of Omani values. This Ramadan, the surge in charitable initiatives reflects a deep-rooted commitment to compassion, unity and collective responsibility,' said Yousef. As Oman continues to nurture its culture of giving, these efforts stand as a testament to the enduring strength of community spirit and the profound impact of shared humanity during the holy month.
Zawya
13-03-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
Oman: CPA cracks down on sale of used tyres
Muscat: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) in North Sharqiyah has seized 1,104 used vehicle tyres from commercial establishments involved in their storage, repair, and resale. The action was taken in line with the Consumer Protection Law, which prohibits the sale of used tyres due to the risks they pose to consumers. The seized tyres were impounded, and legal measures have been initiated against the violators. The CPA stated that the ban on used tyres is aimed at ensuring public safety. As part of the recent amendments to the Consumer Protection Law, penalties for violating tyre sale regulations have been increased. The fine, previously set at RO500, has been doubled to RO1,000. For repeat offenders, the penalty will be doubled again, with an additional fine of RO50 per day for continued violations, up to a maximum of RO2,000. The amended regulations, which took effect on August 19, 2024, reinforce an existing ruling (No 257/2015) that bans the sale of used tyres in Oman. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
28-01-2025
- Business
- Observer
Shura, State Council approve draft Income Tax Law, with suggestions
Muscat: The State Council and the Majlis A'Shura Council joint session discussed areas of disagreement and approved the six draft laws. The six draft laws were Electronic Transactions, Public Health, Transfer and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues, Financial Law, Individual Income Tax, Special Economic Zones, and Free Zones. The draft law on personal income tax has been approved but with recommendations on some articles. On the Personal Income Tax Law, it was agreed to raise the tax exemption limit to RO50,000 for the benefit of the middle class and reduce the percentage to five percent. It was agreed not to include gratuity or other end-of-service perks as they are not considered sources of income. Members agreed that the minimum income of RO30,000, which covered around 32,000 people, was proposed by the government according to a study conducted in 2019/2020. Some members also suggested postponing the implementation of the law but if it is implemented the minimum income has to be raised and other recommendations should be also included. The government has said that the Income Tax will not be imposed unless conditions are suitable for its application. The Minister of Finance added that raising the Value-Added Tax will all citizens, while the income tax will only affect around one percent of the Sultanate's population. Around RO1.4 billion was raised in 2024 from taxes, which include corporate, selective, and value-added taxes.
