Oman Opens Up To More Than 100 Countries That No Longer Need A Visa
While previously, it wasn’t easy to visit Oman, the country has dropped its tourist visa requirement for visitors from 103 countries.
In the past, visitors to Oman had to apply for a visa online prior to their visit. That visa would then be valid for either 10 days, at a price of $13, or 30 days for $52. Oman slowly opened its borders in October, allowing international flights for residents and citizens abroad. The end of November saw tourist visas issued for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started. Things have now changed, with the tourist visa requirement dropped for people from 103 countries.
Visitors From 103 Countries Need No Visa For Oman
Visitors to Oman from 103 countries now no longer need a tourist visa to visit. These countries include the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. Staying times are pretty much the same, with visitors allowed to stay for up to 10 days, as long as they have a return ticket out of the country, a hotel reservation and health insurance.
While the oil industry is Oman’s major source of income, tourism is the fastest-growing non-oil industry in the country. Both tour operators and accommodation providers are looking forward to seeing their visitors return.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Oman had begun to better connect to its neighbors in the region and therefore become more accessible. Dubai’s public transport system started a bus route in 2019 that terminates in Muscat.
It was also in the last year that Oman moved its visa application process online for convenience. However, visitors from many countries will no longer need that service, thanks to the new visa-free travel announcement.
Coronavirus in Oman
Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Oman has recorded just short of 127,000 cases. However, the number of new cases appears to be reducing. Health and safety protocols are in place for international visitors.
Each visitor must complete an online pre-registration form prior to department and take a PCR test on arrival in
Oman at their own expense (around $65). Travelers are also required to download a contact tracing app and take a further PCR test after a week in isolation. Travelers must be covered by sufficient health insurance to cover at least 30 days of coronavirus treatment.
The Acropolis In Athens Is Being Made More Accessible To Travelers @touristmtravel https://t.co/q91hhVZPlx
— Annemarie @ TMT (@touristmtravel) December 15, 2020
Brief introduction into Oman
Oman is tucked away in the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, surrounded by mountains, desert sand and the sea. Its cities are ultra modern, while maintaining the country’s traditions. Muscat is a delightful city, nestled between the mountains and the ocean and surrounded by stunning scenery. The city has excellent museums to visit, along with ancient forts, beautiful parks and an opera house. Visitors should note that Muscat is conservative by nature, and they must always be aware of dress rules. However, in return the people of Oman offer a warm hospitality.
Muscat also has beautiful beaches where visitors can dive with endangered sea turtles in the nearby lagoons. The surrounding country offers the world’s largest sand desert, a spectacular canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, and other fascinating outdoor attractions.
Find out if your country is included on the visa-free list in this report by the Times of Oman.
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