The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) has issued a final warning to expatriates and residents that all banknotes issued prior to the 2020 Sixth Series will cease to be exchangeable after Monday, 21 September 2026.
- Deadline announced on 7 September 2026
- Applies to older issues from 1995 to 2019
- All claims end after business on 21 September 2026
The deadline applies to the 100 baisa, 200 baisa, half-rial, 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 rial denominations.
Following the close of business on 21 September 2026, the Central Bank of Oman will no longer accept claims for the exchange of these notes, rendering any remaining older currency legally worthless. The affected currency includes notes featuring Sultan Qaboos-era designs and certain commemorative issues, as the current legal tender consists exclusively of the 2020 series, which features the portrait of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and updated security features.
The exchange process is strictly limited to licensed banks operating within the borders of Oman and cannot be conducted abroad. The central bank and local authorities are urging individuals in Muscat, Sohar, Salalah, and Nizwa to check personal holdings, including storage in wallets, drawers, and piggy banks, to ensure all legacy notes are exchanged for current Sixth Series notes at face value. Officials have advised the public to act before the deadline to avoid anticipated bank queues.
