Muscat, Oman –
In a landmark and unprecedented move, the Sultanate of Oman has granted dual citizenship to a Russian woman, making her the first-ever foreign national to officially hold both Omani and foreign nationality under a newly amended law. The decision marks a major shift in the country’s citizenship policy, which had previously imposed strict restrictions on holding dual nationality.
The woman, Maria Victor Anatolyevich Armantova, was granted Omani citizenship by Royal Decree No. 29/2025 issued by His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. The decree was officially published in the country’s gazette on March 9, 2025, and made headlines across the region for its historic significance.
What This Means for Oman
Oman has traditionally maintained one of the strictest nationality laws in the Gulf region. For decades, anyone seeking Omani citizenship had to renounce all other nationalities. The government considered dual citizenship a national security risk and generally discouraged any dual affiliations.
However, this latest development points to a major policy shift. On February 2, 2025, the Sultan issued Royal Decree No. 17/2025 which introduced key reforms to Oman’s nationality regulations. These new rules allow the Sultan to grant Omani citizenship while permitting the individual to retain their original nationality. However, such approvals are only possible under “exceptional cases” and must be recommended by the Minister of Interior.
This means that while the door to dual citizenship is now open, it remains tightly controlled. Not everyone will be eligible, and each case will likely be reviewed thoroughly before receiving the Sultan’s final approval.
Who Is Maria Victor Anatolyevich Armantova?
While specific details about Maria Armantova’s background have not been made public by the Omani government, her name suggests she is of Russian origin. Some reports speculate that she may have strong connections with Oman through long-term residency, professional expertise, or contributions to society. It is also possible that she may have family ties or other special considerations that led to the granting of her dual citizenship.
Experts believe this case could set a precedent for others with similarly unique circumstances—such as long-time expatriates who have contributed significantly to Oman’s development or those in key scientific, academic, or diplomatic roles.
New Rules for Gaining Citizenship in Oman
The new nationality law outlines clear guidelines for who can become an Omani citizen. These include:
- Naturalization for long-term residents who have legally lived in Oman for at least 20 years (or 15 years for Arab nationals).
- Marriage to an Omani citizen, with specific conditions such as the length of the marriage and proof of integration into Omani society.
- Citizenship by birth under certain conditions.
- Special cases through Royal Decree, like the recent case with Maria Armantova.
However, the law also includes tough measures for anyone who breaks the rules. For example, Omani citizenship can be revoked if a person is found guilty of disloyalty, serious crimes, or if they acquire another nationality without government permission—unless they are granted such permission under the new exceptions.
This dual approach shows that while Oman is opening up slightly, it still places a high priority on national security and loyalty to the state.
Why This Matters: Social and Economic Impact
This move comes at a time when Gulf countries are exploring new ways to diversify their economies and attract global talent. While Oman has generally taken a slower, more cautious approach compared to neighbors like the UAE or Qatar, this step may reflect a broader strategic plan.
Allowing dual citizenship in rare cases can help Oman:
- Attract and retain skilled professionals in fields like medicine, education, science, and technology.
- Recognize contributions of long-term expatriates who have spent decades living and working in Oman.
- Improve international relations by honoring foreign nationals who have served the country’s interests.
Experts suggest that Oman may be preparing to compete on a global scale by modernizing its policies, especially in light of ongoing economic reforms and Vision 2040—a national strategy aimed at creating a more diversified, knowledge-based economy.
Global Reactions and Human Rights Concerns
While many observers have praised the decision as progressive and forward-looking, others have raised questions about transparency and human rights. Several international organizations argue that the citizenship law still lacks proper legal protections and appeal mechanisms.
According to critics, individuals who lose their Omani citizenship for legal or political reasons often have no way to challenge the decision. The new law grants broad powers to the state, including the authority to strip citizenship from those deemed to act against national interests.
In response, legal experts in Oman argue that the law includes sufficient safeguards and that citizenship decisions—especially those approved by Royal Decree—are made only after careful review. They emphasize that national sovereignty and security must remain top priorities.
What Comes Next?
This historic development may signal the beginning of a more open and inclusive approach to citizenship in Oman. However, officials stress that dual citizenship will only be granted in rare, highly specific situations and is not a sign of broad liberalization.
Still, the fact that a Russian woman has become the first dual citizen under this new policy reflects a changing attitude—one that acknowledges the value of long-term contributions and deep connections to the Sultanate.
Whether more people will follow in Maria Armantova’s footsteps remains to be seen. But for now, her case represents a turning point in Oman’s history—a nation that is slowly, but surely, evolving its identity in a fast-changing world.
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