MUSCAT: The Consumer Protection Authority in Oman reported that a complaint was filed against a household furniture business in South Al Batinah Governorate – Rustaq, after the company failed to deliver contracted services. The consumer had hired the establishment to design and install windows in his residence for RO 2,470, paying an advance of RO 1,400 with an agreement to complete the project within one month. Despite the agreement, the company did not meet the promised deadlines, prompting the consumer to lodge a formal complaint with the CPA to seek redress.
Investigation by the CPA confirmed that the company breached service guarantees and violated Articles 23 and 39 of the Consumer Protection Law, which require services to be provided in accordance with agreed terms and ensure proper delivery. The findings demonstrated clear negligence on the part of the business, as it failed to fulfill contractual obligations and did not adhere to professional standards expected in commercial service delivery. This case highlights the authority’s role in safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring compliance with national regulations.
The business owner initially expressed willingness to refund the advance payment but suggested doing so in monthly installments of RO 150. Given the insufficient remedy and breach of consumer trust, legal action proceeded, with the court reviewing both criminal and civil aspects of the case. The proceedings emphasized accountability for businesses failing to uphold contractual commitments and the importance of timely dispute resolution to protect consumers.
Ultimately, the court convicted the owner of the misdemeanour of failing to provide services as required, sentencing him to one month of imprisonment and a fine of RO 100. In the civil ruling, the court ordered repayment of RO 1,400 to the complainant and required the defendant to bear all judicial expenses. Other claims for additional compensation, including RO 4,000, were dismissed, underscoring the legal system’s measured approach to enforcing consumer rights while balancing claims against actual proven damages.
