MUSCAT: The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has announced a significant update that extends the validity of the national ID card to match the duration of the Omani passport. This move, introduced in Muscat, comes as a direct response to public feedback, aiming to enhance service quality, reduce the frequency of renewals, and streamline administrative procedures. By aligning the ID card’s validity with the passport, the ROP seeks to provide citizens and residents with a more efficient and convenient identification process, ultimately saving time and resources for both the public and the authorities.
According to the ROP, the decision reflects the government’s commitment to continuous improvement in public services, ensuring that policy changes address the needs and suggestions of the community. Officials highlighted that this adjustment will particularly benefit frequent travelers, professionals, and those residing abroad, who often face challenges with shorter ID renewal cycles. The alignment also supports broader digital transformation efforts, as longer validity periods reduce administrative workload and improve the integration of identification systems across various governmental platforms.
In its public announcement, the ROP emphasized the importance of citizen engagement in shaping service enhancements. The statement, accompanied by a lighthearted message — “Now your ID card comes with a longer shelf life! Because we value your suggestions and you are our partners in development…” — underscores the organization’s intention to maintain open communication channels with the public. This approach reinforces trust between the authorities and the community, making residents feel heard and involved in the nation’s administrative evolution.
The change is expected to have a positive impact on both efficiency and public satisfaction. With fewer renewals required, administrative costs and time spent on processing will be significantly reduced, allowing the ROP to allocate resources toward other essential services. For the public, the benefits include less frequent paperwork, greater convenience in international travel arrangements, and improved alignment with global identification standards. This strategic update reflects Oman’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its public sector while ensuring that developments are driven by citizen-centric policies.
