Public Prosecution confirms conviction of citizen for disrespecting national attire and currency

Muscat: A prison sentence, a fine of OMR 150, confiscation of the phone used, and closure of the social media account of an Omani citizen who appeared in a video performing indecent dance moves while wearing Omani attire have been issued, according to the Public Prosecution (PP).

The Seeb Court of First Instance convicted the defendant, Shihab bin Ahmed bin Salem, on May 14, 2026. The court found him guilty of four misdemeanours: publicly committing an indecent act (two months' imprisonment); appearing in a public place in a manner that offends public decency (two months' imprisonment); using information technology to publish material violating public morals (four months' imprisonment); and treating the country's currency with contempt (a fine of OMR 150). The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently, with the longest sentence executed, along with payment of court costs and publication of the verdict.

The court also ordered the confiscation of the mobile phone used in the crime and the closure of the defendant's social media accounts. On July 22, 2026, the Seeb Court of Appeal upheld the original verdict while suspending the prison sentence.

Public Prosecution investigations revealed a video showing the defendant performing indecent dance moves in Omani attire and filming another person in traditional clothing before posting it online. The investigation also confirmed his contemptuous treatment of the national currency by placing it on another person and passing it around in a showy manner.