Overview
Majlis Oman, the Council of Oman, is the bicameral parliamentary body of the Sultanate consisting of the Majlis al-Shura (Consultative Council) and the Majlis al-Dawla (State Council). The Majlis al-Shura is the elected lower chamber, with members directly elected by Omani citizens through universal suffrage for four-year terms. The Majlis al-Dawla is the appointed upper chamber, with members selected by the Sultan for their expertise and experience. Together, the two chambers review draft legislation, propose amendments, question government ministers, and contribute to national policy deliberation. While legislative authority ultimately rests with the Sultan through Royal Decrees, Majlis Oman plays an increasingly significant advisory and oversight role.
Key Facts
- Bicameral parliament: Majlis al-Shura (elected) and Majlis al-Dawla (appointed)
- Majlis al-Shura members elected through universal suffrage for four-year terms
- Majlis al-Dawla members appointed by the Sultan for their expertise
- Reviews draft legislation and proposes amendments
- Questions government ministers on policy and performance
- Women serve as members in both chambers
- Advisory and oversight role complementing Royal Decree legislative authority
Significance for Vision 2040
Majlis Oman contributes to Vision 2040’s governance and institutional development objectives by providing a structured channel for citizen participation in national policymaking. The elected Shura Council ensures that diverse regional and sectoral perspectives are represented in policy deliberations, which is essential for building public support for Vision 2040’s reform measures. The appointed State Council brings technical expertise and experienced judgment to legislative review. Vision 2040 recognizes that effective governance requires accountability mechanisms beyond executive action alone, and Majlis Oman provides this through its questioning and oversight functions. The inclusion of women members in both chambers supports Vision 2040’s commitment to gender equality in public life. Strengthening parliamentary capacity and expanding its substantive legislative role is consistent with Vision 2040’s good governance principles.