| National Emblem of Oman | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Armiger | Sultan of Oman |
| Shield | AKhanjar (dagger) in asheath that is superimposed upon two crossed swords |
Thenational emblem ofOman (Arabic:شعار سلطنة عمان), nicknamedKhanjar Bo Sayfain (lit. 'Khanjar and two swords'), is an insignia consisting of aKhanjar inside itssheath that is superimposed upon two crossed swords. Adopted in the 18th century as the badge of theOmani royal family, it subsequently became thenational emblem of the Sultanate ofOman. The emblem is featured at thecanton on theFlag of Oman.
The national emblem was first designed in the mid-18th century, when it was adopted as the royal crest of theAl Said dynasty.[1][2] Its usage was expanded when it subsequently became the national emblem ofthe sultanate. This occurred during the reign of eitherFaisal bin Turki (1888–1913) orTaimur bin Feisal (1913–1932).[3][4] The emblem was later incorporated onto the canton of the country'snational flag in 1970.[2] Moreover, in order to distinguish "directly royal entities"[4] and create a distinct symbol for these organizations, a crown was added to the top of the national emblem. This modified insignia is utilized on the badges of all branches ofSultan's Armed Forces, including theRoyal Army,Royal Navy,Royal Air Force,Royal Guard, andRoyal Oman Police – among many others.[4]
According to theOmani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, theKhanjar – along with the two crossed swords – symbolize the historic weapons utilized by thepeople of Oman.[5] They are attached together by an embellished [waist belt with its Khanjar at the centre.][2] TheKhanjar itself is anational symbol of the sultanate, and is still worn by Omani men as a "ceremonial dagger"[6] for formal occasions.[7]
Under a Royal Decree issued in 2004, theMinistry of Commerce and Industry is required to give authorization before any merchandise – both domestic and foreign imports – is allowed to depict the national emblem.[8] Failure to do so may result in the seizure of those products, along with a fine and prosecution.[9] Furthermore, the decree also forbids the desecration and/or destruction of the emblem. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine ofOMR 1,000 and imprisonment of up to three years.[8]
