There is plenty to do and see in Oman. Nature is stunning, the local culture is welcoming and fascinating, and there are unique festivals and events that you can only experience here.
Plus, the Sultanate is a very safe country with great political stability and low crime rates, making it a great holiday destination in the region. The vast majority of Brits and other international visitors report having had a fun and hassle-free time in Oman.
Keep reading to find out more about travelling to Oman from the UK, including the documents you’ll need to have with you, how to get the visa, and the best way to get there.
Get your papers right
First things first: if you’re wondering ‘Do I need a visa for Oman?’ the answer is, yes and no. Oman has recently announced visa-free travel for over 100 countries, including the United Kingdom.
This more relaxed visa policy is part of the Omani government’s plan to boost international tourism and kickstart the recovery of the sector, which has been heavily affected by the 2020 coronavirus pandemic.
However, the visa exemption only applies to holidaymakers who are happy with just a quick tour of the Sultanate, since visa-free entry is granted only for 10 days. If you’re planning a couple of weeks in the Gulf, then, you’ll have to get yourself a visa.
How to get a visa for Oman
Fortunately, Brits can access the eVisa online application. Just like the name suggests, it’s an electronic visa that can be obtained completely online: you won’t have to make an appointment with the Omani embassy and face endless paperwork for your holidays.
Instead, you’ll need to create an account on the application website and fill out an electronic form. Most people take just a few minutes to complete it. Then, you’ll have to upload copies of your British passport and other documents (if required) and pay the visa fee with a debit or credit card. Then you’re done, just wait for the eVisa to be sent to you directly via email, you won’t even have to pick it up.
The eVisa is way more flexible than the 10-day visa exemption. Within its 30-day validity period, you can enter Oman as many times as you like so it’s especially useful for those who want to explore several countries in the area within the same trip. Alternatively, you can also choose to get a single-entry online visa if you’re planning to stick to Oman.
What about COVID-19?
As we mentioned, the Omani authorities are trying to encourage international tourism. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t measures in place to prevent the virus from spreading.
In fact, you will have to get tested for COVID-19 and present your negative PCR test results at the border if you want to enter the country. You will also need to complete the ‘traveller registration form’ which allows the local authorities to track coronavirus cases and get in touch with their contacts and finally, you may be subject to mandatory quarantine.
Consider that in Oman, the pandemic has been relatively lighter than in other countries like the UK: so far, there have been a little over 1 thousand victims in Oman against almost 85 thousand in Britain. It is only natural to want to keep such low numbers this way.
How to get to Oman from the UK
The quickest and easiest way to travel is by plane. From London Heathrow and Stansted, you can fly directly to the capital Muscat. The flight lasts about 10 hours. You can then take internal flights or explore the country by car.
If your city is not served by direct flights to Oman, you’ll probably have to transit through hubs like Dubai. That is the case, for example, for passengers departing from Birmingham and Manchester.
Top Omani experiences for tourists
You’re unlikely to get bored in Oman. Here are just some of the unforgettable experiences that you can live as a tourist in Oman:
- Shop like there’s no tomorrow: choose between international designer boutiques in brand new malls and traditional handmade items at local souqs (or do both)
- Have a swim in the Arabian Gulf: Musandam in the northernmost part of the country is famous for its white sand beaches
- Watch nature do magical things: the Khareef festival in Salalah celebrates monsoon season and attendees can witness arid landscapes turn into waterfalls, natural pools, and miles of flowers
- Hike and enjoy the view: Oman is home to some world-class mountain trails and stunning views. Try Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar
