Oman introduces free 10-day visas for cruise ship crew, passengers

MUSCAT: To boost tourism, Oman has announced a new initiative offering free 10-day visas to passengers and crew members of cruise ships arriving in the country.

The decision, outlined in Decision No. 132/2024, aims to attract more visitors and contribute to the growth of Oman’s tourism industry.

Under the new regulations, tourists and crew members can obtain a 10-day visa upon request of the tourist ship agent, with entry required within 30 days.

Additionally, a one-month visa is available under similar terms.

This initiative is expected to make Oman a more attractive destination for cruise lines and tourists alike, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse attractions.

The decision amends parts of the Executive Regulations of the Foreigners’ Residence Law, including:

•  Article (1): Replacing Clause (3/c) of Article (10) of the Executive Regulations of the Foreigners’ Residence Law referred to shall be replaced by the following clause: Visit visa for passengers and crew of cruise ships.
• Article (2): Replacing Sequence (13) of the entry visa table mentioned in the first of Article (29) of the executive regulations of the aforementioned Foreigners Residence Law shall be replaced by the following sequence: “A free visit visa is granted to passengers and crew of cruise ships for a period not exceeding 10 days.”
• Article (3): Cancelling Sequence (12) of the entry visa table mentioned in the first of Article (29) of the executive regulations of the Foreigners’ Residence Law shall be canceled.

This move is a significant step towards attracting more visitors to Oman and promoting the country’s tourism industry.