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As of December 2024, Oman is revolutionizing global travel by offering visa-free access to citizens of ninety-eight countries, including prominent destinations such as Thailand, South Korea, Turkey, Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Australia, India, Japan, and Indonesia. This strategic initiative strengthens Oman’s position as a leading destination in the Middle East, attracting a wide array of visitors eager to experience its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled hospitality. By opening its borders, Oman not only boosts tourism but also promotes deeper cultural exchanges and enhances economic partnerships with nations worldwide, further elevating its global influence.
Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is strategically located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Bordering Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Yemen, and with coastlines along the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf, Oman is a natural gateway for travelers from Asia, Europe, and beyond. Its capital, Muscat, is not only a cultural hub but also a welcoming metropolis blending ancient traditions with modern luxury.
Oman’s Tourism Boom: A Rising Star in 2023
The Sultanate’s tourism sector flourished in 2023, with significant milestones reflecting its growing global appeal. The sector’s contribution to Oman’s GDP surged by nearly 35% to $7.2 billion, with 3.5 million tourists arriving—a remarkable 20.8% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores Oman’s targeted marketing strategies, robust investments in infrastructure, and the increasing popularity of its cultural and natural attractions. Travelers from Thailand, India, China, and Saudi Arabia played a significant role in this surge, drawn by Oman’s unique offerings and expanding connectivity.
Diverse Travelers from Across the Globe
Oman’s visitor demographics reflect a diverse influx of travelers. Leading the list are tourists from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, followed by India, Yemen, China, and Germany. Additionally, the visa-free policy aims to attract a broader range of visitors, including citizens of Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and Russia. These travelers contribute to a vibrant cultural tapestry, enriching Oman’s tourism sector with their unique interests and preferences.
Visa-Free Travel: Enhancing Accessibility
As of December 2024, Oman’s visa-free travel initiative, covering 98 countries, significantly boosts its accessibility. This policy includes prominent countries such as Thailand, Russia, Turkey, South Korea, China, Saudi Arabia, Australia, India, Japan, and Indonesia, underscoring Oman’s commitment to fostering global connections and attracting a diverse range of travelers.
Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan, Chief Editor of Travel and Tour World, said, “As of December 2024, Oman’s visa-free access policy for citizens of 98 countries, including Thailand, Russia, Turkey, South Korea, China, Saudi Arabia, Australia, India, Japan, and Indonesia, presents a transformative opportunity for both the Sultanate and the eligible nations. This initiative simplifies travel, fosters cultural exchanges, and strengthens economic ties, positioning Oman as a leading global destination. By welcoming diverse visitors to experience its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned hospitality, Oman not only boosts tourism revenues and enhances global connectivity but also establishes itself as a model for leveraging visa-free policies to drive mutual growth and collaboration.”
Oman’s Airports: Global Connectivity
Oman’s airports serve as vital gateways for millions of travelers annually:
Muscat International Airport (MCT): As the primary hub, Muscat’s airport connects Oman to global destinations, with flights to and from cities like Tokyo, Sydney, and Istanbul.
Salalah Airport (SLL): A key entry point for tourists exploring the Khareef season, this airport connects to countries like India and Saudi Arabia.
Sohar Airport (OHS): While primarily handling regional flights, Sohar Airport provides essential links for travelers from neighboring nations, including those arriving from the UAE.
Airlines Leading the Way
Omani airlines play a crucial role in facilitating visa-free travel:
Oman Air: Offering flights to major destinations such as Bangkok, Seoul, and Beijing, Oman Air is pivotal in connecting Asia to the Sultanate.
SalamAir: This budget airline caters to cost-conscious travelers, with routes to cities like Jakarta, Mumbai, and Riyadh.
Exploring Oman: A Land of Wonders
Oman’s diverse attractions cater to travelers from all walks of life. Here are some must-visit destinations:
Muscat: The capital city’s Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and Royal Opera House captivate visitors from across Asia, including India, Japan, and South Korea.
Jebel Akhdar: Known as the Green Mountain, this destination is popular among eco-tourists from Australia and Thailand.
Salalah: Famous for its Khareef season, this city attracts nature lovers from Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and China.
Musandam: The dramatic fjords and crystal-clear waters appeal to adventurers from Turkey and Russia.
Culinary Adventures
Omani cuisine offers a rich array of flavors:
Shuwa: A slow-cooked lamb dish cherished by locals and visitors alike.
Majboos: A spiced rice dish often enjoyed by tourists from India and Indonesia.
Mashuai: Grilled fish, reflecting Oman’s coastal bounty, is a favorite among Japanese travelers.
Halwa: A traditional dessert enjoyed with Omani coffee, appreciated by visitors from Thailand and Saudi Arabia.
Hotels and Resorts: Luxury and Comfort
Oman boasts an impressive lineup of accommodations:
Six Senses Zighy Bay: A retreat popular with travelers from Australia and Japan.
Alila Jabal Akhdar: Nestled in the mountains, it’s a hit among nature lovers from South Korea and Turkey.
The Chedi Muscat: This luxurious escape attracts visitors from China and Russia.
Oman’s Global Appeal
With its visa-free travel policy, Oman is not only enhancing its accessibility but also strengthening ties with countries such as Thailand, Russia, Turkey, South Korea, China, Saudi Arabia, Australia, India, Japan, and Indonesia. This initiative underscores Oman’s commitment to welcoming a diverse range of travelers, fostering cultural exchanges, and boosting its economy.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or culinary explorer, Oman offers an unparalleled experience. Its warm hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage ensure that visitors from every corner of the globe will find something to cherish in this Arabian gem
Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/thailand-russia-turkey-south-korea-china-saudi-arabia-australia-india-japan-and-indonesia-among-ninety-eight-visa-free-travel-countries-boosting-omans-tourism-sector-a-new-report-you-need/
