
Consumer rights form a fundamental pillar of fair and ethical commerce, establishing clear protections and standards for every transaction. These protections are set out under the Executive Regulation of Oman’s Consumer Protection Law, as amended up to Consumer Protection Authority Decision No. 1/2023. These safeguards are designed to balance the relationship between buyer and seller, promoting trust and accountability in the marketplace.
Speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Zadjali, Founding Partner of Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm, said “Consumer rights establish essential protections within the marketplace. These regulations ensure transparent transactions, requiring sellers to provide clear invoices detailing price, warranty, and product information. Concealing defects or employing misleading advertisements constitutes a violation of these standards.”
He added, “Strong warranty provisions support these rights. For a wide range of goods, consumers are entitled to repair, replacement, or a refund for defective items. Requests for replacement or refund may be made within 15 days from receipt for goods covered by statutory warranty provisions, while the right to repair remains available throughout the applicable warranty period. Notably, supplier-made conditions that attempt to waive these rights, such as "no return" policies, are legally invalid.”
He further stated, “Safety remains a paramount concern. Products must meet safety standards, and suppliers are obligated to announce recalls upon discovering hazardous defects. Appropriate usage instructions and hazard warnings must be provided to prevent harm. Moreover, a formal complaint mechanism exists through the Consumer Protection Authority, which addresses grievances within a defined period. The right to seek compensation for damages resulting from substandard products or services is also protected.”
“Ultimately, a powerful framework of consumer rights upholds marketplace integrity, ensuring transactions are conducted with transparency, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to safety” he concluded.
(Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm ([email protected]), (+968 244 87 600) was established on 14th December 2006 and is serving clients through its offices in Muscat and Sohar, as well as operating on a request basis in other areas. It offers legal representation across a wide range of practice areas that include Labour Law, Corporate, Commercial, Contracts, Banking and Finance, International Trade, Foreign Investment, Insurance, Maritime Law, Construction and Engineering Contracts, International Arbitration, Intellectual Property and more).