Oman’s Environment Authority is moving firmly into the next phase of its environmental cleanup. Beginning July 1, 2026, the Sultanate will launch the fifth phase of its comprehensive, multi-year single-use plastic bag ban, expanding restrictions to several retail industries that have historically relied on plastic packaging.
The regulation specifically targets plastic shopping bags that are less than 50 micrometers thick, aiming to remove non-degradable waste from the environment and protect Oman’s delicate marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
Phase Five Target Sectors
The newly active fifth phase expands the scope of Decision No. 8/2024. Starting this July, businesses in the following sectors are legally barred from using single-use plastic bags:
- Luxury Outlets: Gold, silver, and traditional dagger (Khanjar) craft shops.
- Home & Retail: Furniture and blanket showrooms.
- Automotive Industries: Car dealerships and vehicle care or detailing centers.
Rather than an overnight blanket ban across the entire economy, Oman’s regulatory authorities designed a seven-phase national roadmap to allow industries time to swap out their packaging chains for eco-friendly alternatives like paper, cardboard, cotton, and non-woven fabrics.
Heavy Penalties for Non-Compliance
Enforcement officers have significantly stepped up surprise inspections across local governorates. During the first quarter of 2026 alone, the Environment Authority conducted 1,485 inspection visits, registering 106 environmental breaches.
Financial Penalties: Businesses caught violating the ban face administrative fines ranging from RO 50 to RO 1,000 ($130 to $2,600 USD). If a business commits a repeat offense within one month, the fine is legally doubled.
