MUSCAT – The court also ordered the defendant to pay the consumer a total of RO 12,725 in restitution and compensation.

The ruling follows a complaint filed by a consumer with the Directorate General for Consumer Protection Authority in Sohar against an establishment operating in the contracting, building materials, and interior decoration sector. The consumer had signed a contract worth RO 21,000 with the provider to construct the front structure of his residence, including a large majlis, kitchen modifications, and an annex — all in line with the agreed building plan.

After receiving the full payment, the contractor failed to complete the project as per the contractual agreement and repeatedly delayed the work. Despite multiple attempts by the complainant to get the work completed, the provider remained unresponsive. During the investigation, the accused admitted that he was unable to deliver the project on time, citing his presence outside the country.

The court found the provider guilty of violating Article 23 in conjunction with Article 39 of Oman’s Consumer Protection Law No. 66/2014, which mandates that service providers must complete services properly, consistent with their nature, and within an appropriate time frame. The law requires providers to either refund the cost, rectify the deficiency, or properly deliver the service again if obligations are not met.

The Public Prosecution referred the case to the court following a detailed investigation. In addition to the prison term and fine, the court ordered the defendant to pay the plaintiff RO 10,725 in unpaid dues and an additional RO 2,000 in compensation. The provider was also directed to bear all court fees and related expenses.