Oman's Central Bank Extends Deadline to Redeem Expired Notes

Oman’s Central Bank (CBO) has announced a significant extension for the public to redeem expired banknotes issued before June 2020. The new deadline is now the end of the working day on Monday, September 21, 2026—after which no claims will be accepted.

The extension applies to banknotes from the “pre-sixth issue” series, which were withdrawn from legal tender status under earlier CBO directives. Citizens and residents across Oman can redeem such expired notes through all licensed banks operating in the Sultanate. 

In its announcement, the CBO emphasized that after 21 September 2026, no further claims or redemptions will be entertained, underscoring the importance of timely action by holders of old notes. The bank has framed this extension as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth transition to the newer currency series and to maintain confidence in Oman’s monetary system. 

Previously, the CBO had outlined which denominations were affected, including older versions of the Omani rial and baisa notes released in the 1990s and early 2000s, which ceased to be valid after they were withdrawn from circulation. The extension gives individuals, businesses, and institutions additional time to exchange any remaining holdings of these older banknotes without penalty.

For anyone holding expired banknotes, the takeaway is clear: act before September 21, 2026. After that date, the opportunity to redeem these notes will lapse permanently, and no exemptions or extensions are expected.