Oman relaxes visa rules

Oman has reportedly relaxed its rules on multiple entry visas for certain countries in an effort to boost the local economy.

Times of Oman reports that people travelling from 38 countries to the Sultanate can now stay for three months at a time, rather than three weeks.

Government officials hope the extension, which began on July 20, will allow investors more time to scout the country and give tourists more time to spend money, according to the publication.

Under the previous system, visitors faced fines if they outstayed the 21-day limit of the multiple entry visa. They can now stay for two three-month periods within a year.

Countries eligible for the new visa, which costs OMR 50 ($130), include the UK and much of central and eastern Europe.

Nationals from India, the Philippines and Bangladesh can apply for an extended visa but require a sponsor in Oman.

“I believe it is a good move but they should also look at letting the other, closer countries get the multiple entry visa,” Anvwar Asian Investment Group chairman
Anvwar Al Balushi told the publication.

The government estimates Oman generated OMR 250.9m ($651.6m) in inbound tourism last year. A third of travellers to the country come for leisure and the other two thirds for business.