Monday 05 / January / 2026
MUSCAT: On 5 January 1980, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) received the Royal Care of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, marking the opening of the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences.
Since then, 5 January has been observed annually as Royal Oman Police Day, an occasion to reflect on achievements, evaluate performance, and reaffirm commitment to serving the nation.
On this occasion, ROP Headquarters and all personnel extend their sincere greetings, gratitude, and renewed loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, reaffirming their determination to continue working with dedication and sincerity under His Majesty’s wise leadership.
Security presence and timely response
ROP Headquarters across the governorates serve as daily points of engagement with society, strengthening mutual trust and enhancing cooperation within a sustainable service environment. These headquarters form the cornerstone of the Sultanate’s security and service systems, embodying the concept of community policing and reflecting the efficiency of police performance.
ROP stations play a pivotal role in maintaining public order, preventing crime, and handling reports and accidents. Their proximity to residential areas ensures rapid response, effective field presence, and continuous security control.
Integrated service centres
ROP stations in the wilayats provide integrated services, including traffic services, civil status, and passport services, enabling citizens and residents to complete transactions at single service points. These centres are electronically linked and equipped with advanced technologies to simplify procedures, saving time and effort.
Special task police
The Special Task Police represent a strategic component of the national security system, working in an integration with all ROP formations to achieve comprehensive security. Distinguished by high operational readiness and advanced training, the units are equipped to perform missions under diverse conditions.
Their personnel undergo intensive training aligned with the latest global practices in rescue operations, security tactics, and the use of special weapons, supported by modern equipment and technologies.
ROP operations
The Directorate General of Operations plays a central role in implementing security plans and addressing evolving challenges in coordination with concerned departments. Operations departments have been established across governorate headquarters, supported by central operations rooms in Muscat.
The ROP Operations Centre receives emergency calls via 9999, while the Security Counselling Department conducts visits to vital establishments to ensure compliance with security standards and controls.
Training and qualification
Training and qualification are fundamental to enhancing police efficiency. Royal Decree No. 72/2023 re-organised the Police College and expanded its academic authority, enabling officers to obtain bachelor’s degrees in police sciences and law.
Through curriculum development, faculty enhancement, and research advancement, the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences obtained accreditation from the Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education, reflecting its adherence to recognised academic standards.
Research and innovation
The Research and Studies Centre at the academy plays a vital role in developing security performance by applying research to policing and decision-making. The centre funds research projects and invests in artificial intelligence technologies.
Digital transformation and electronic services
ROP is a pioneer in government digital transformation, having developed more than 650 integrated electronic services. Services are accessible via smartphones and self-service kiosks, including the introduction of alternative digital identity solutions linked to passport services.
AI and future technologies centre
The AI and Future Technologies Centre is a strategic initiative dedicated to harnessing artificial intelligence for data analysis and innovative security solutions, operating as part of ROP’s advanced technology ecosystem.
Tajawob Platform
ROP strengthens community engagement through the Tajawob Platform, an interactive communication channel that enhances transparency, builds trust, and promotes public participation.
Customs
The Directorate General of Customs supports the national economy through the advanced Bayan electronic system, which provides 459 electronic services and connects 74 government and private entities. The system has significantly reduced transaction times, improved customs control efficiency, and enhanced transparency and investment facilitation.
Inquiries and criminal investigations
The Directorate General of Inquiries and Criminal Investigations continues to modernise criminal investigation systems through advanced technologies and specialised training. The Criminal Laboratory’s accreditation under ISO/IEC 17025 confirms the accuracy, reliability, and international compliance of its forensic analyses.
National Centre for Financial Information
The Sultanate of Oman, through the National Centre for Financial Information, has maintained its membership in the Egmont Group, in recognition of its effective efforts in combating money laundering and terrorism financing.
Combating drugs and psychotropic substances
The Directorate General of Combating Drugs and Psychotropic Substances operates an integrated system combining enforcement, legislation, monitoring, and treatment. Its awareness campaigns and security operations have successfully foiled numerous drug smuggling attempts, contributing to a safer society.
ROP Aviation
The Directorate General of ROP Aviation plays a vital role in search and rescue operations, medical evacuations in mountainous areas, and emergency response during natural disasters.
Coast Guard
The ROP Coast Guard Police Headquarters safeguards Oman’s coastline, counters maritime smuggling, and conducts search and rescue operations, strengthening maritime security and navigational safety.
Traffic, Cavalry, and Specialised Directorates
The Directorate General of Traffic regulates traffic flow, enhances road safety, and provides responsive services aligned with public needs.
The Cavalry Units support search operations in mountainous areas, combat drugs and explosives, and participate in regional and international events.
The Directorate General of Passports and Residence has made notable progress in expanding services to various sectors of society, while the Directorate General of Airport Security ensures civil aviation security in accordance with international and national standards.
Oil and Gas Establishments Security
The Oil and Gas Establishments Security Headquarters protects production facilities, oilfields, drilling operations, and related infrastructure, ensuring the security of vital national assets.
Media, awareness, and sports
ROP actively cooperates with media institutions to highlight police work and uphold the public’s right to information. In 2025, the Directorate of Relations and Security Information conducted several awareness campaigns in collaboration with government entities.
The ROP Sports Union plays an important role in developing the fitness and skills of ROP personnel, with ROP teams achieving commendable results in regional and international championships.
