No penalty for transporting family and friends: Ministry of Transport Clarifies

The Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology released a statement on Sunday via social media regarding their recent implementation of inspection campaigns on land transport. The purpose of these campaigns is to ensure that the Land Transport Law is being followed, with a focus on ensuring the safety of individuals and goods, and protecting the rights of land transport carriers (sender and consignee).

During these inspections, several violations were discovered, including the transportation of goods and individuals in breach of the regulations. The ministry clarified that fines would only be given to drivers who violate the executive regulations of the Land Transport Law, and not to those transporting acquaintances or friends without payment.

If anyone has been fined for transporting friends or relatives, they are encouraged to submit a grievance about the violation to the Land Transport Department at the Ministry’s General Office or the Roads Departments in the governorates within 15 days of the statement’s issuance.

The ministry stated that the purpose of these campaigns is to organize the land transport sector and create opportunities for investment in this vital sector by obtaining necessary approvals and permits from the ministry and other relevant authorities. The statement concluded by confirming that the inspection campaigns will continue and urging workers in the sector to comply with the Land Transport Law and its regulations.

There was increasing anxiety among the expatriate community that their loved ones and friends would face the possibility of a substantial penalty while dropping off or picking up a family member or friend. This was due to the fact that expatriates who were driving with passengers not under the same sponsor were being penalized by the ministry, resulting in a fine of OMR 200 for the violation.

Furthermore, the regulation stipulated that any worker who transported goods in their vehicle that were not for personal use and without commercial gain would be subject to a fine of OMR 300.

Below is the official statement that was posted on Twitter: