Oman Unveils Free 10-Day Visit Visa to Promote Tourism – Complete Details Explained

To boost its tourism industry, Muscat, Oman has extended a complimentary 10-day visitation visa to passengers and staff on cruise ships. A one-month visa alternative and revisions to the Foreigners’ Residence Law’s Executive Regulations are also included in the new policy.

Oman’s capital, Muscat, has introduced new visa regulations in a calculated attempt to boost its travel and tourist sector. A free 10-day visitation visa is now available to passengers and crew members arriving in the Sultanate of Oman on cruise ships.

New Visa Regulations Announced

This modification was made by Inspector General of Police and Customs Lieutenant General Hassan bin Mohsen Al Shuraiqi by Decision No. 132/2024. The Foreigners’ Residence Law’s Executive Regulations have some clauses amended by this ruling.

Crucial Elements of the New Visa Regulation

• 10-Day Free Visa: A complimentary 10-day visa is now available to cruise ship passengers and staff. The tourist cruise agent requests that this visa be granted. After it is issued, it has to be utilized within 30 days.
• One-Month Visa Option: Under comparable circumstances, a one-month visa is also accessible for individuals who need to stay longer. The entry must take place no later than 30 days after the visa is issued. A big step in the right direction toward bringing in more foreign tourists to Oman is this new policy.

Executive Regulations Modifications

The Foreigners’ Residence Law’s Executive Regulations will now read as follows as a result of this decision:

Article (1): Updated Visa Clauses

• 10-Day Visit Visa: As a result of the new rules, tourists are now eligible for a 10-day visit visa. Within 30 days of its issuance, this visa must be used. Its purpose is to promote tourism and allow for short-term stays.
• One-Month Visit Visa: A one-month visa is also available for individuals who require a longer visit. Similar to the 10-day visa, this one is meant for extended travel and must be used within 30 days of issuance.

Article (2): Updated Visa Table Sequence

• Free 10-Day Visit Visa for Cruise Ship Passengers: The entry visa table has been amended to reflect that both passengers and crew members of cruise ships are eligible for a free visit visa. This visa, which has a maximum validity of ten days, is intended to make entry easier for cruise passengers.

Article (3): Removal of Previous Visa Sequence

• Cancellation of Previous series: The entry visa table’s previous series (12) has been eliminated. This modification reflects the renewed emphasis on the most recent visa requirements for travelers and cruise ship guests.

Other Visa Options for Travelers

Other than the recently introduced 10-day free visit visa, Oman provides travelers with the following visa types:

• Tourist visas: 30 days is the maximum stay allowed, and an extra 30 days may be added.
• Business Visa: Designed for professional activities such as conferences and meetings, this visa is valid for up to 90 days.
• Family Visit Visa: Allows residents’ relatives to stay for a maximum of 30 days, with the option of an extension.

Conclusion

By facilitating admission, Oman’s new visa policy—which includes a complimentary 10-day visit visa for crew and passengers on cruise ships—aims to increase tourism. With more alternatives for visas, Oman is expected to draw a wide variety of foreign visitors.