Oman Launches First Polymer One-Rial Banknote in 2026

Oman has officially unveiled its first polymer one-rial banknote, marking a major transformation in the country’s currency design and security framework. Issued by the Central Bank of Oman, the new note will enter public circulation from January 11, 2026.

The polymer banknote will circulate alongside existing paper-based one-rial notes and will continue to be recognised as legal tender.

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Oman Launches First Polymer One-Rial Banknote in 2026

Transition to Polymer Currency

This marks the first adoption of polymer material for banknotes in Oman. Polymer notes are widely used globally due to their superior durability compared to traditional cotton-based paper notes.

Key advantages of polymer currency:

• Longer lifespan, especially in hot and humid climates
• Lower replacement costs over time
• Greater resistance to wear and tear
• Enhanced protection against counterfeiting

With this move, Oman joins several countries that have modernised their currency systems using polymer technology.

Design Reflecting Culture and Economy

The polymer one-rial note measures 145 × 76 millimetres and integrates cultural heritage with economic development.

Design highlights:

• Front side: Oman Botanic Garden, symbolising environmental conservation
• Reverse side:
  • Sayyid Tariq bin Taimur Cultural Complex
  • Duqm Port and Refinery, representing industrial growth and economic diversification

The design reflects Oman’s balanced focus on culture, sustainability, and infrastructure development.

Advanced Security Features

Security enhancement is a core objective of the new banknote.

Key security features include:

• A large transparent window inspired by the arch design of the Oman Botanic Garden
• A colour-shifting foil featuring the frankincense tree on the front
• The Central Bank logo printed in iridescent, colour-changing ink on the reverse

These features significantly strengthen protection against counterfeiting.

Public Circulation and Collector Editions

The Central Bank of Oman has clarified that:

• Existing paper one-rial notes will remain valid legal tender
• The polymer note will circulate simultaneously

Additionally, limited collector editions, including uncut sheets and specially packaged notes, will be available from January 11, 2026, through selected Central Bank branches and Oman Post outlets, catering to collectors and the general public.

Exam-Oriented Key Facts

• Oman has launched its first polymer banknote
• Denomination: One-rial
• Issuing authority: Central Bank of Oman
• Date of circulation: January 11, 2026
• Polymer notes are more durable than cotton-based notes
• Security features include transparent window and colour-changing ink

Question & Answer

Q1. Which country has launched its first polymer one-rial banknote?
(a) Qatar
(b) Oman
(c) Bahrain
(d) Kuwait
Answer: Oman

Q2. Oman’s first polymer banknote will enter circulation from which date?
(a) January 1, 2025
(b) July 1, 2025
(c) January 11, 2026
(d) March 1, 2026
Answer: January 11, 2026

Q3. Which institution issued Oman’s first polymer one-rial banknote?
(a) Ministry of Finance of Oman
(b) Oman Post
(c) Central Bank of Oman
(d) Royal Mint of Oman
Answer: Central Bank of Oman

Q4. What is the main advantage of polymer banknotes over paper notes?
(a) Higher weight
(b) Lower printing cost
(c) Greater durability
(d) Larger size
Answer: Greater durability

Q5. Which feature is used on Oman’s polymer banknote to prevent counterfeiting?
(a) Magnetic strip
(b) Hologram sticker
(c) Transparent window
(d) QR code
Answer: Transparent window

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