Travel to Oman with a UK eVisa
Everything British residents need to know about visiting Oman in 2026 — entry requirements, visa information, top attractions, and essential travel tips for UK eVisa holders.
Oman is a middle east destination that welcomes British passport holders with evisa required access. With your UK eVisa confirming your digital immigration status, you can enjoy everything Oman has to offer — from musandam fjords to desert camping. This comprehensive guide covers all the essential information you need to plan your trip in 2026, including entry requirements, the top things to see and do, practical safety advice, and the latest guidance on the BRP to eVisa transition that affects all UK residents travelling internationally.
Since all UK Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) expired on 31 December 2024 and the grace period ended on 1 June 2025, it is more important than ever to understand how your digital immigration status works when travelling abroad. This guide will walk you through everything step by step.
Entry Requirements for Oman
UK passport holders need an eVisa to enter Oman. The good news is that the process is entirely online and straightforward. You should apply before your trip via the official government portal to receive your electronic authorisation, which permits a stay of up to 30 days.
The eVisa application typically requires your personal details, passport information, travel itinerary, and accommodation details. Processing times vary but most applications are approved within a few business days. We recommend applying at least two weeks before your intended travel date to allow plenty of time for processing and any potential delays.
Please note that the Oman eVisa is separate from your UK eVisa. Your UK eVisa is your digital immigration status for the United Kingdom, while the Oman eVisa is your entry permission for Oman. You will need both — the Oman eVisa for entry, and your UK eVisa for your return to Britain.
What You Need to Enter Oman
- Valid British passport — must have at least 6 months validity beyond your planned departure date from Oman. Ensure you have at least two blank pages available for entry and exit stamps.
- UK eVisa status — your digital immigration status (eVisa) replaces the old BRP card. Ensure you can access your UKVI account online before travelling. Take a screenshot of your status as a backup in case of connectivity issues abroad.
- Approved Oman eVisa — apply online before departure. The fee is approximately ~$20 (eVisa) and processing typically takes 1–5 business days. Print the confirmation email or save the PDF to your phone. Some airlines will check this at the boarding gate.
- Return or onward ticket — immigration officers in Oman may ask for proof of a return flight or onward travel arrangements. Having a printed or digital copy readily available is strongly advisable.
- Proof of accommodation — hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmation, or a letter of invitation from your host in Oman can speed up the entry process and demonstrate your travel plans are genuine.
- Sufficient funds — you may be asked to demonstrate you have enough money to cover your stay in Oman. A recent bank statement, credit card, or cash equivalent in the local currency (Omani Rial (OMR)) is usually sufficient.
- Travel insurance — while not always mandatory for entry to Oman, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, emergency repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage is strongly recommended for all international travel from the UK.
- Passport photos — carry two spare passport-sized photographs. While not always required for Oman, they can be useful for local registration, SIM card purchases, or unexpected administrative requirements during your trip.
Pro tip: Always check the FCDO travel advice page for Oman before you travel. Entry requirements can change at short notice due to local regulations, public health measures, or global events. The information above was accurate at the time of writing but should be verified before departure.
Arriving in Oman
When you arrive at the airport or border crossing in Oman, follow the signs for “eVisa Holders” or “Non-Residents” at immigration control. Have your passport open to the photo page, along with any required documentation. The immigration officer will check your passport validity, may ask about the purpose and duration of your visit, and will stamp your passport with the entry permission.
Keep your entry stamp safe throughout your stay — you will need to show it when departing Oman. If you plan to extend your stay beyond 30 days, you must apply for an extension through the local immigration authority before your current permission expires. Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or future travel restrictions.
Highlights & Things to Do in Oman
Oman in Middle East has something for every type of traveller. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, bustling markets to serene landscapes, here are the top experiences that make Oman a fantastic destination for UK eVisa holders looking for their next adventure abroad.
Each of these highlights offers a unique window into the character of Oman. We recommend spending at least a few days to truly appreciate what this destination has to offer, rather than trying to rush through everything in a single trip. The best travel experiences come from taking your time and engaging with each place on its own terms.
Musandam fjords
This is widely considered one of the must-see experiences in Oman. Visitors from the UK consistently rate it among the highlights of their trip. Allow plenty of time to explore and soak in the atmosphere — rushing through would mean missing the subtle details that make this experience so memorable.
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
A quintessential Oman experience that draws travellers from around the world. The combination of natural beauty, cultural significance, and sheer uniqueness makes this a standout attraction. Photography enthusiasts will find countless opportunities for stunning shots here.
Wadis
Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is an experience that appeals to all ages and interests. It offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and provides genuine insight into what makes Oman such a special destination in Middle East.
Desert camping
This experience showcases the very best of what Oman has to offer. From the moment you arrive, you will understand why so many British travellers choose to return year after year. The combination of atmosphere, accessibility, and authenticity is hard to beat anywhere in Middle East.
Suggested Itinerary
For a well-rounded trip to Oman, we suggest spending at least 5–7 days. Start in Muscat to acclimatise and explore the urban attractions, then venture out to the natural and cultural highlights further afield. If your 30 days stay permits, consider combining Oman with nearby middle east destinations for a multi-stop adventure.
Traveller tip: Many of these attractions are best experienced with a knowledgeable local guide who can share the history and cultural context that you might otherwise miss. Consider booking a guided tour for at least one of your days in Oman. Local guides can be arranged through your hotel, on platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator, or through local tourism offices in Muscat.
Safety & Practical Tips
Travelling to Oman from the UK is straightforward when you are well-prepared. Here are our essential tips covering personal safety, money management, language, weather, and staying connected. These practical pointers will serve you well throughout your visit and help you avoid common pitfalls that catch unprepared travellers off guard.
General Safety
Oman is generally a safe destination for British tourists, but standard precautions apply wherever you travel. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas, and avoid displaying expensive jewellery, electronics, or large amounts of cash. Use hotel safes for your passport, spare cash, and important documents. Stick to well-lit areas at night and use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps rather than accepting lifts from unmarked vehicles.
Check the latest FCDO travel advice for Oman before your trip for any specific safety warnings, regional advisories, or security alerts that may affect your plans.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). ATMs are widely available in Muscat and major tourist areas throughout Oman. Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is wise to carry some local cash for markets, street vendors, small shops, tipping, and rural areas where card machines may be unreliable.
Notify your bank before travelling to avoid your card being blocked for suspicious overseas activity. Consider using a fee-free travel card such as Monzo, Starling, or Wise for the best exchange rates and zero foreign transaction fees. Avoid exchanging money at airports where rates are typically the worst.
Language
The official language is Arabic. In tourist areas, hotels, and international restaurants in Muscat, you will usually find English speakers. However, outside major tourist zones, English may be less widely spoken.
Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is always appreciated and can enhance your experience considerably. Useful phrases include greetings, “please”, “thank you”, “excuse me”, and “how much does this cost?”. Consider downloading Google Translate with the offline language pack for Arabic before your trip so you can communicate even without internet access.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Oman is Oct-Apr. During this period you can expect the most favourable weather conditions for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and general exploration. Temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is typically at its lowest.
Shoulder seasons (the weeks immediately before or after peak season) often offer an excellent balance of pleasant weather, lower accommodation prices, and fewer crowds. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, these shoulder periods can provide the best overall experience. Avoid peak holiday periods if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience away from the tourist masses.
Connectivity & SIM Cards
Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming charges in Oman before you depart. Many UK networks include certain destinations in their roaming bundles, but charges can be steep if Oman is not covered by your plan. Check whether your provider offers a specific Middle East roaming add-on.
Purchasing a local SIM card at the airport arrival hall or a phone shop in Muscat is often the most cost-effective option for mobile data and local calls. Alternatively, consider an eSIM provider such as Airalo or Holafly, which allows you to activate data before you even land. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in Muscat and popular tourist zones. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before your trip as a reliable backup for navigation.
Important Travel Notice
Important: BRP Cards Are No Longer Valid for Travel
All UK Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) expired on 31 December 2024. The grace period for using expired BRP cards ended on 1 June 2025. If you previously relied on a BRP card as proof of your UK immigration status, you must now use your eVisa (digital immigration status) instead.
This change affects all foreign nationals living in the UK, including those with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), limited leave to remain, and all other immigration categories that previously issued BRP cards. It does not matter when your BRP was originally issued or what its stated expiry date was — all BRPs are now invalid.
Before travelling to Oman, make sure you:
- Create or sign in to your UKVI account to access your eVisa and verify your digital immigration status
- Confirm that your immigration status, personal details, and passport number are all correctly displayed in your online account
- Generate a “share code” if needed to prove your right to travel and return to the UK — this code is valid for 90 days
- Carry your valid British passport or travel document — your eVisa is linked to the passport number registered with UKVI
- If you have recently renewed your passport, ensure the new passport number has been updated in your UKVI account before you travel
- Contact UKVI on 0300 790 6268 (inside UK) or +44 203 481 1736 (outside UK) if there are any discrepancies in your digital status
Your eVisa is not a physical document — it is a digital record accessible through your UKVI online account. Airlines and UK border officials can verify your status electronically using your passport details. However, we strongly recommend taking a screenshot of your online immigration status as a backup, in case you experience internet connectivity issues while at the airport or abroad.
Do not attempt to travel using an expired BRP card. It is no longer accepted as a valid travel or identity document by any airline or border authority. You may be denied boarding by your airline or refused entry on your return to the UK if you cannot demonstrate valid immigration status through your eVisa.
For more detailed guidance on the BRP to eVisa transition, see our comprehensive Digital Immigration Status Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions British travellers ask about visiting Oman with a UK eVisa. If you cannot find the answer you need below, check the FCDO website for official government guidance, or visit our main FAQ page for more general eVisa and travel queries.
You can apply for a Oman eVisa online through the official government portal before your trip. The fee is approximately ~$20 (eVisa) and processing usually takes 1 to 5 business days, though we recommend applying at least 2 weeks in advance. You will receive your approved eVisa via email, which you should print or save to your phone as a PDF. Your stay is permitted for up to 30 days. Note that the Oman eVisa is separate from your UK eVisa — you need both for your trip.
No. All UK BRP cards expired on 31 December 2024 and the grace period for using them ended on 1 June 2025. You cannot use an expired BRP card for travel to Oman or any other international destination. You must now use your eVisa, which is your digital immigration status linked to your passport. Before travelling, sign in to your UKVI account at gov.uk to verify that your status is correct and accessible online. If you have not yet created your UKVI account, do so well in advance of your trip to Oman.
The best time to visit Oman is generally Oct-Apr, when weather conditions are most favourable for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and general exploration. The capital Muscat and major tourist attractions are most enjoyable during these months. Visiting during the shoulder season (just before or after peak times) can mean fewer crowds, lower accommodation prices, and a more relaxed experience overall. The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), and you will find that costs may also be lower outside peak tourist season.