Muscat just made spontaneous travel a little less scary for your wallet. Oman has introduced a free 14-day tourist visa for nationals of selected countries, under fresh amendments to its Foreigners’ Residence Law. If you’ve been eyeing a short Gulf escape without the usual visa fee sting, this one’s worth bookmarking.
Planning A Quick Oman Trip? You Could Now Get A Free 14-Day Tourist Visa
The changes came via Royal Oman Police Decision No. 109/2026, signed off by Lt Gen Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs. It kicked in the day after it was published in the Official Gazette, so this isn’t “coming soon” news; it’s already live.
What Changed Under Oman’s New Entry Rules
The competent authority can now grant eligible nationals a 14-day tourist visa completely free of charge, subject to whatever conditions it sets. The new visa category has been added to Article 10 of the executive regulations. Also, it’s listed in the official entry- visa schedule under Article 29, where the fee appears to be very satisfying zero Omani rials.
Oman has spent the last couple of years quietly loosening entry rules, sponsor-free residency for property owners, a cultural visa expansion for artists and their families, and in-country visa extensions for stranded travellers. This free 14-day visa fits the same pattern: make the Sultanate easier to say yes to.
Also Read: UAE Residents In Oman Can Apply For Visa Extension Without Exit; Here’s How!
Who Qualifies For The Free 14-Day Visa?
Authorities haven’t published the list of eligible nationalities yet. The visa will apply to citizens of countries “designated by the competent authority”—which, translated from bureaucrat-speak, means “watch this space”. If you’re planning a trip and want to lean on this specifically, it’s worth checking directly with Royal Oman Police or your travel agent closer to your travel date, since the list could roll out gradually.
Also Read: Planning To Visit Oman Via Road From The UAE? Here’s All About Routes, Costs, Visa & More
How To Convert It Into A Longer Stay
The nice part? This isn’t a strict use-it-and-lose-it visa. Before your 14-day run out, you can convert it into any of Oman’s other tourist visa categories. But, provided you meet the requirements and pay the applicable fees for that category. So if your quick trip turns into “actually, I want to stay longer,” there’s a built-in pathway for it.
For UAE residents specifically, Oman remains one of the easiest, most scenic weekend escapes. Whether it’s a drive down the coast or a short flight to Muscat. This new free visa route just removes one more friction point for a spontaneous trip across the border.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/Reyyan from Pexels
FAQs
Is the Oman tourist visa really free of charge?
Yes. Under Royal Oman Police Decision No. 109/2026, eligible nationals can get a 14-day tourist visa at zero cost, though it's subject to conditions set by the authorities.
Which nationalities are eligible for the free visa?
This hasn't been published yet. Authorities say the visa will apply to citizens of countries designated by the competent authority.
Can I stay longer than 14 days on this visa?
Yes. Before it expires, you can convert it into any other Omani tourist visa category, as long as you meet the requirements and pay the relevant fees.