The Council of Oman (parliament) comprises the Majlis al-Dawla (State Council) and the Majlis al-Shura (Consultative Council). Members of the Majlis al-Dawla are appointed by the sultan for a four-year term. Members of the 83-seat Majlis al-Shura are elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage, but the council has no legislative powers. Widening the powers of the Majlis al-Shura has been one of the main reforms demanded by protesters. The next elections for the Consultative Council are due to be held in October 2011. Women are encouraged to participate in the elections, but even though a number of women were nominated as candidates by their districts in the election in October 2007, all the seats were won by men.

In light of the protests, the sultan has set up a committee to look into widening the powers of the Majlis al-Shura. Following the major cabinet reshuffle, some of its members have been appointed to cabinet positions. This may also lead to the Majlis al-Shura itself acquiring legislative powers.