The Omani government has announced a new policy allowing passport holders from over 100 countries to enter the Sultanate without a visa for up to 14 days. This move aims to boost international tourism in the country. The policy, published on the Omani government's entry visa portal, outlines two separate categories of eligible nations. Travellers from either group can arrive in Oman without applying for a visa in advance.
One of the notable aspects of the policy is its extension to immediate family members who may not independently hold an eligible passport. The three relatives of a qualifying primary traveller who can enter under the same 14-day visa-free arrangement are husbands, wives, and children. This means a family travelling together can enter Oman without prior visa applications, as long as the lead traveller is a citizen of a qualifying country or region.
The policy adjustment is particularly significant for mixed-nationality households, who previously faced the inconvenience of applying for individual visas on behalf of family members whose passports did not qualify. Under the updated arrangement, those hurdles are substantially reduced. The move forms part of Oman's ongoing effort to make the country more welcoming to international visitors and to refine its entry procedures.
Prospective travellers are advised to verify their country's eligibility on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website before making any travel bookings. This will ensure that they are aware of the requirements and can plan their trip accordingly. The Omani government's decision to extend the visa-free exemption to three immediate family members is expected to benefit many families who travel together.
In a related development, the Royal Oman Police had issued Decision No. 87/2026 on June 25, 2026, amending the country's Foreigners' Residence Law. The new rules covered three categories of foreigners, including property buyers, real estate owners, and licensed investors in Oman. This decision aims to attract more foreign investment and talent to the country.
Foreign employees working with government entities in Oman also became eligible for residency under the updated regulations. The new rules are part of Oman's efforts to improve its business environment and attract more foreign investment. The country's tourism industry is also expected to benefit from the new visa policy.
The new policy is a significant development for families and individuals planning to travel to Oman. With the extension of the visa-free exemption to three immediate family members, more people can now visit the country without the need for prior visa applications. This is expected to boost tourism and economic growth in Oman.
Key points
- Oman allows 14-day visa-free entry for passport holders from over 100 countries
- The visa-free exemption has been extended to three immediate family members of qualifying primary travellers
- The policy aims to boost international tourism and make Oman more welcoming to visitors
