Oman announces new law for mosques, violators to face $2,616 fine

Oman mosque

Oman has issued a new resolution limiting the use of external loudspeakers in mosques and chapels in the Sultanate. The resolution will come into effect on Monday.

The resolution, which was issued by Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Dr. Mohammed bin Saeed bin Khalfan Al-Maamari, replaces Article (39) of the Mosques Regulations with a new provision that limits the use of external loudspeakers to the call to prayer only.

Any mosque or chapel found in violation of the resolution will face a fine of RO1,000 ($2,615.56). This is part of a new provision (Article 56) that has been added to the list of mosques regulations.

Speaking to the Oman Observer, a source at the ministry said the decision was not new but it’s an implementation of an existing rule that was passed some 10 years ago. “But there are exceptions,” said the source.

“External loudspeakers can be used for, first, call for prayers, second, for Friday (Juma Prayers), and third, two Eid prayers to make people know about them,” the source added.