As the world changeover into the following stage of the pandemic now,  countries established travel restrictions in response to Covid-19. Several countries reconstructed mandatory requirements as an attempt to open borders for eligible travelers.

Amidst the current crisis, Oman has taken amiable steps to encourage foreigners to visit and boost its revenue in the tourism sector. The country has maintained its low number of Covid-19 cases and established preventive measures to keep it controlled. Therefore, commercial airlines gradually return to normal. Civil Aviation Authority of the Sultanate declared the resumed operations of international flights following the standard bilateral aviation agreement.

On top of that, Oman decided to open its borders for 103 foreign nationals visa-free. The list includes countries from the European Union.

For travelers who have their Visa issued between March 1st to August 31st of 2020, Oman announced the extension of Visa until March 2021.

Issuance of tourist visas resumed last November 30, 2020. If the traveler aims to stay longer than ten days, an application for a tourist visa is still required. E-Visa application online is available anytime and anywhere.

Oman prohibited the entry of certain nationalities in compliance with the current travel restrictions.

Who are eligible to visit Oman?

Royal Oman Police informed the public about the amendment of travel restrictions. Starting December 10th, 2020, the country would accept more tourists from eligible foreign countries. (eligible Countries for oman eVisa). Travelers must comply and submit all mandatory requirements to gain entry. A return ticket, confirmed hotel reservation, and health insurance required upon entry.

GCC nationals who own a residence permit and valid visa can enter Oman without prior approval.

Oman COVID-19 requirements upon entry

Border authorities will review the following requirements upon entry:

• Traveler must complete the “Traveler Registration Form.”
• Medical insurance with at least one-month coverage in case there's a need for coronavirus treatment in Oman (Omani nationals excluded)
• Travelers must download the Tarasud+ Application on their mobile devices upon arrival. Hmushrif Application is for travelers staying more than a week in the Sultanate
• Medical certificate that indicates a negative test result for Covid-19 72 hours before arriving in the country. The document is mandatory to print in English. Minor travelers whose age is below 15, aircraft crew, and diplomats do not need to present medical certificates 
• Travelers need to pay OMR 25 upon entry and pre-book PCR test through https://covid19.emushrif.om/traveler/travel
• All travelers aged 15 and above needs to undergo a PCR test for Covid-19.
• International travelers who aim to stay for more than seven days must undergo seven days of quarantine. PCR test is necessary to ensure safety. Results are available after twenty-four hours. If the medical result is negative, the quarantine period will end on their 8th day.

Travelers originated from Oman

• Omani citizens and residents are allowed to travel without pre-approval
• Valid health insurance in case there's a need for coronavirus treatment overseas
• Consider online check-in to avoid face-to-face interaction. 
• Do not travel if flu-like symptoms occur
• Travelers departing Oman has to pay OMR 19 for the PCR test. Results are available electronically after 24 hours.
• The airport has thermal scanners around the place and could detect a traveler's temperature. Travelers must undergo a PCR test if their temperature is 38 Celsius or higher.

Preventive measures against CORONA Virus

Many countries established precautionary measures to prevent Coronavirus from spreading. The Medical experts are closely monitoring the new Covid-19 variant. The Omani government implemented various for the safety of everyone in the country. Prior temporary suspension of Visa issuance, the committee also ordered the following:

• Encourage the use of electronics 
• Close customer-facing establishments and services in both private and public sectors
• Cease activities in Mosques and other places of worship
• Suspend social gathering (Wedding, parties, and other events)
• 7-days self-isolation requirement for all travelers entering Oman.
• Advised all Omani residents and citizens to stay home and cease traveling outside the Sultanate.
• Alert medical attention right away if they experience flu-like symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, fever, or sore throat.

In case an individual has close contact with an infected patient, it is necessary to do self-isolation and conduct further tests. Everyone must abide by simple precautionary measures such as using a face mask, wash hands often, and avoid contact with sick people.