The Sultanate of Oman announced that it has added new nationalities to its visa waiver policy. This initiative is part of a broader effort to facilitate mobility and attract more international visitors.
New facilities for Turkey and Azerbaijan
A formal agreement between Oman and Azerbaijan came into effect, allowing holders of diplomatic, special, and service passports to travel between the two countries without a visa.
On December 22, 2025, the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a official communiqué. Oman and the Türkiye have established a reciprocal visa exemption for holders of ordinary passports. This new measure removes the need for pre-arrival visas for short-term tourist travel. To be eligible for the visa exemption, the stay in Oman must be for maximum 30 days. Travel formalities for entering Oman are becoming more accessible for Turkish nationals, as the authorities seek to boost tourist flows between the Middle East and Europe.
The Philippines should be eligible for the program
The expansion plan does not stop there. Starting this year, Oman will extend visa-free access to Filipino nationals, thereby facilitating business and leisure travel. This decision aims to capture the rapidly growing tourism market in Southeast Asia. The latest information provided by the authorities was December 7, 2025. Currently, there is no specific date for the exemption to come into effect.
Boost international trade
These measures are expected to have a significant impact on Oman's hospitality sector. By removing barriers to entry, the country hopes to stimulate business for local hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
The increase in visitor numbers should also benefit the MICE sector (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), consolidating Oman's position as a business tourism hub in the Middle East able to attract foreign investment.
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