Economy, Banking and Finance · 23 December 2025
Central Bank of Oman (CBO) launches first polymer one-rial banknote for circulation.
Exam-focused facts from the 23 December 2025 current affairs briefing.
Key facts
- The Central Bank of Oman (CBO) has released the first polymer one-rial banknote.
- The polymer note will start circulating from January 11, 2026.
- The note measures 145 by 76 millimetres and features the Oman Botanic Garden on the front.
- The reverse side displays the Sayyid Tariq bin Taimur Cultural Complex, Duqm Port and Refinery.
- Security elements include a large transparent window and colour-shifting foil showing the frankincense tree.
- The Central Bank’s logo on the back is printed in iridescent, colour-shifting ink.
- The new polymer note will circulate alongside existing one-rial banknotes and remain legal tender.
- Limited editions of 1,000 uncut sheets and 10,000 specially packaged notes will be available from January 11, 2026 at CBO counters in Ruwi, Salalah, and Sohar, as well as Oman Post’s outlet at the Opera Galleria.