Oman Travel with UK BRP

Complete guide to visiting the Sultanate visa-free for 14 days or with eVisa for 30 days

14 Days Visa-Free

Key Information

Visa-Free
14 days
eVisa
30 days
Requirement
Nationality Based
Digital Status
Verify First

Oman Visa Policy for UK BRP Holders

Nationality-based system with generous visa-free access for many passport holders

Oman offers a nationality-based visa system where UK BRP holders' entry requirements depend entirely on their passport nationality, not their UK residence status. The Sultanate provides 14-day visa-free entry to citizens of 103 countries, with the option to apply for 30-day eVisas online for longer stays. This system makes Oman accessible to many UK residents while maintaining straightforward entry procedures.

Unlike some countries that provide special treatment for UK residence permit holders, Oman's visa policy is determined solely by passport nationality. However, UK passport holders benefit from the generous 14-day visa-free policy, and most other nationalities can easily obtain eVisas online through the Royal Oman Police system, making it one of the more accessible Middle Eastern destinations for international travelers.

UK BRP Status Note

Having a UK BRP does not provide special visa privileges for Oman entry. Your entry requirements are determined solely by your passport nationality. UK residence status may help with eVisa applications as proof of residence in a qualifying country, but it doesn't override nationality-based visa requirements.

GCC Residents Advantage

While UK BRP holders don't receive special treatment, residents of GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain) get preferential visa access with reduced fees and simplified applications. If you also hold GCC residency, this may provide better entry options than relying on UK status alone.

Digital eVisa Recognition Unclear

Oman's acceptance of UK digital eVisas for proving UK residence status in eVisa applications remains unclear. Immigration systems may not be equipped to verify digital UK status, particularly for applicants using UK residence as qualification for eVisa eligibility from certain countries.

OMR
Currency
GST
Time Zone
999
Emergency
5M
Population

Entry Requirements & Visa Options

14-day visa-free entry or 30-day eVisa based on nationality

Visa-Free Entry (14 Days)

Citizens of 103 countries can enter Oman without a visa for stays up to 14 days. This includes:

  • UK passport holders: 14-day visa-free entry (cannot be extended)
  • EU passport holders: Most EU nationalities qualify for visa-free entry
  • US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: 14-day visa-free access
  • Most developed countries: Check specific nationality eligibility

eVisa Requirements (30 Days)

For stays longer than 14 days or for nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry:

  • Tourist eVisa (unsponsored): 30 days, single or multiple entry available
  • Application method: Online through Royal Oman Police eVisa portal
  • Processing time: Usually 2-3 business days
  • Validity: 30 days from issue date, 30-day stay allowed
  • Cost: Varies by nationality (typically OMR 5-20 / £11-44)

Essential Documents for All Entries

  • Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond planned departure
  • Confirmed return/onward flight ticket (may be requested at border)
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
  • Sufficient funds (credit cards or cash equivalent to OMR 100+ per week)
  • Travel insurance (recommended, especially for longer stays)

Additional eVisa Application Documents

  • Passport-sized photograph (white background, recent)
  • Passport information page scan (clear, high quality)
  • Proof of UK residence (BRP scan or digital eVisa printout for certain eligibility categories)
  • Bank statements (showing adequate financial means for stay)
  • Travel itinerary (detailed plan of activities and locations)

Special Categories

  • GCC residents: Special reduced-fee visas available (OMR 5) with 3-month minimum residence permit validity
  • Dubai/Qatar visa holders: Visa-free entry if arriving directly from Dubai with valid visa (21+ days) or Qatar visa valid for Oman
  • Transit passengers: Some nationalities may enter visa-free for short transit periods

No Visa-on-Arrival

Oman has discontinued visa-on-arrival services. All visitors requiring visas must obtain them online in advance through the eVisa system. Arrival without proper documentation will result in entry denial and immediate deportation to origin country.

Documents NOT Accepted

  • Expired passports or those with less than 6 months validity
  • Emergency travel documents (except in exceptional circumstances)
  • Hand-written passports (machine-readable passports required)
  • Damaged passports with unreadable information or missing pages
  • Photocopies of any travel documents (originals required)

Entry Process & Immigration

Step-by-step guide through Oman immigration at all entry points

1

Pre-Departure Preparation

Verify your nationality's visa requirements using the official Royal Oman Police website. Apply for eVisa if required, ensuring all documents are prepared and approved before travel.

2

Arrival at Oman Entry Point

Present passport and supporting documents at immigration counter. Main entry points include Muscat International Airport, Salalah Airport, and land borders with UAE and Saudi Arabia.

3

Immigration Review

Officer will verify your nationality against visa-free list or check your pre-approved eVisa. May ask questions about accommodation, purpose of visit, and intended duration of stay.

4

Entry Stamp & Permission

If approved, passport will be stamped with entry date and permitted stay duration (14 days for visa-free, 30 days for eVisa). Proceed to customs and baggage collection.

Common Entry Points

  • Muscat International Airport (MCT): Main international gateway with efficient immigration processing
  • Salalah Airport (SLL): Southern region access point, seasonal increase in traffic
  • Al Mazyunah Border: Land crossing with Yemen (currently restricted due to regional situation)
  • Al Wajajah Border: Main land crossing with UAE (Al Ain side)
  • Hafeet Border: Secondary UAE crossing point
  • Batinah Coast: Several smaller ports for cruise ships and private vessels

Entry Challenges & Solutions

  • Insufficient financial proof: Have bank statements or credit cards showing adequate funds
  • No accommodation booking: Provide hotel reservation or invitation letter with contact details
  • Unclear travel purpose: Prepare clear explanation of tourism/business activities planned
  • Missing return ticket: Immigration may require proof of onward travel plans
  • Digital documentation issues: Have physical printouts of all eVisa confirmations and bookings

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Travelers arriving from countries with yellow fever risk (including transit through such countries) must present valid yellow fever vaccination certificates. This particularly affects travelers coming from parts of Africa and South America.

Departure Process

  • Exit immigration: Present passport for exit stamp - ensure this is completed
  • Overstay fines: OMR 10 per day for overstaying visa-free period or eVisa validity
  • Maximum fine: OMR 500 total overstay penalty
  • Extension options: 14-day visa-free periods cannot be extended; eVisas may be extendable once for additional 30 days

Activities, Attractions & Restrictions

What you can do during your stay and important limitations

Permitted Activities

Allowed

Tourism, sightseeing, cultural activities, business meetings, conferences, exhibitions, visiting friends/family, photography, shopping, desert excursions, diving, hiking, remote work for non-Omani employers, medical tourism, cultural exchanges

Prohibited Activities

Not Permitted

Employment by Omani companies, receiving income from Omani sources, establishing businesses, long-term studying, overstaying permitted duration, working without proper permits, journalism without permits, political activities, missionary work

Must-See Attractions & Experiences

  • Muscat: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq, Royal Opera House, Al Alam Palace, National Museum
  • Nizwa: Historic fort, traditional souq, Friday livestock market, ancient architecture
  • Jebel Akhdar: Green Mountain, terraced farms, cool climate, hiking trails
  • Wahiba Sands: Desert camping, camel riding, Bedouin culture, stargazing
  • Sur: Traditional dhow building, turtle watching at Ras Al Jinz, coastal scenery
  • Salalah: Frankincense trees, monsoon season greenery (June-September), beaches
  • Wadis: Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid - swimming holes, hiking, natural pools
  • Bahla: UNESCO World Heritage fort, pottery traditions

Adventure Activities

  • Diving & Snorkeling: Daymaniyat Islands, Musandam Peninsula, coral reefs
  • Mountain Hiking: Jebel Shams (Grand Canyon of Oman), Via Ferrata routes
  • Desert Adventures: Dune bashing, sandboarding, overnight camping
  • Wadi Exploration: Swimming, rock climbing, photography in natural gorges
  • Cultural Tours: Traditional villages, handicraft workshops, local markets
  • Marine Life: Whale watching, dolphin tours, sea turtle nesting sites

Overstay Consequences

  • Daily fines: OMR 10 per day (approximately £22 per day)
  • Maximum penalty: OMR 500 total fine
  • Detention risk: Extended overstays may result in detention
  • Entry bans: Potential restrictions on future Oman visits
  • Deportation: Serious overstays may result in forced removal
  • GCC implications: Overstay records may affect entry to other Gulf countries

Cultural Sensitivity

Oman is a conservative Muslim country with traditional values. Dress modestly in public (covering shoulders and knees), respect local customs during prayer times, avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful during Ramadan when eating/drinking in public during daylight hours should be avoided.

Practical Travel Information

Essential tips for exploring the Sultanate of Oman

Money & Banking

  • Currency: Omani Rial (OMR) - one of the world's strongest currencies (OMR 1 ≈ £2.20 in 2025)
  • Subdivisions: 1 Rial = 1000 Baisa
  • Cards accepted: Major credit/debit cards widely accepted in cities and tourist areas
  • ATMs: Available in all major towns and cities; international cards accepted
  • Cash preference: Small vendors, traditional souqs, and rural areas often prefer cash
  • Budget accommodation: OMR 15-30/night (£33-66) for basic hotels/guesthouses
  • Mid-range hotels: OMR 40-80/night (£88-176) for good quality accommodation
  • Luxury resorts: OMR 150-500+/night (£330-1100+) for high-end properties
  • Budget meals: OMR 2-5 (£4.40-11) at local restaurants
  • Mid-range dining: OMR 8-15 (£18-33) per person at hotel restaurants
  • Fine dining: OMR 20-40+ (£44-88+) at upscale establishments

Transportation

  • Car rental: Most popular option - OMR 10-25/day (£22-55) for standard cars
  • 4WD vehicles: OMR 25-50/day (£55-110) for desert/mountain access
  • Fuel costs: Very affordable - OMR 0.16 per liter (approximately £0.35)
  • Driving license: International driving permit required alongside home country license
  • Public buses: Limited but affordable inter-city connections
  • Taxis: Available in cities, negotiate fare or use meter
  • Ride-sharing: Limited availability compared to UAE
  • Domestic flights: SalamAir, Oman Air for quick travel between regions

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Wide range from budget to ultra-luxury, especially in Muscat and Salalah
  • Desert camps: Unique experiences in Wahiba Sands and other desert areas
  • Mountain resorts: Premium properties in Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams
  • Beach resorts: Luxury options along coastline, particularly in Salalah
  • Guesthouses: Family-run options in smaller towns and villages
  • Camping: Wild camping possible in designated areas with permits
  • Booking advice: Reserve in advance, especially during peak season (October-April)

Communication & Internet

  • Official language: Arabic (English widely spoken in tourism/business)
  • Mobile networks: Omantel, Ooredoo - excellent coverage in populated areas
  • Tourist SIM cards: Available at airports and shops - bring passport for registration
  • Data packages: OMR 5-15 (£11-33) for tourist/short-term plans
  • Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, malls, and many public areas
  • Internet restrictions: Some VoIP services blocked; social media generally accessible

Health & Safety

  • Healthcare quality: Good private healthcare in major cities
  • Health insurance: Strongly recommended - medical costs can be high for tourists
  • Emergency services: 999 for police, fire, ambulance
  • Water safety: Tap water generally safe but bottled water recommended
  • Crime rate: Very low - one of the safest countries in the Middle East
  • Road safety: Generally good but mountain/desert driving requires caution
  • Women travelers: Very safe with standard modest dress requirements

Climate & Best Times to Visit

  • Peak season: October-April (comfortable temperatures 20-30°C/68-86°F)
  • Summer: May-September (very hot 35-45°C/95-113°F, especially inland)
  • Khareef season: June-September in Salalah (monsoon brings cool, green conditions)
  • Mountain areas: Cooler year-round, pleasant even in summer
  • Desert areas: Extreme temperature variations - cold nights, very hot days in summer
  • Best overall time: November-March for most comfortable weather

Cultural & Legal Considerations

  • Alcohol: Available in licensed hotels and restaurants; not sold in regular shops
  • Dress code: Modest clothing required - cover shoulders, knees, avoid tight-fitting clothes
  • Photography: Ask permission for people photos; avoid military/government buildings
  • Public behavior: No public displays of affection; respectful behavior expected
  • Drug laws: Extremely strict - zero tolerance policy
  • Religious respect: Friday prayers, Ramadan considerations, mosque etiquette

Official Sources & Verification

Authoritative information sources for current Oman entry requirements

Primary Oman Government Sources

UK Government Sources

Embassy & Diplomatic Sources

  • Embassy of Oman in UK
  • Embassy of Oman London: +44 (0)20 7225 0001
  • UK Embassy Muscat: +968 2463 2000
  • Tourist Police Oman: 1099

Additional Verification Sources

Nationality Verification Essential

Since Oman's visa requirements are entirely nationality-based, it's crucial to verify your specific passport's eligibility through the official Royal Oman Police eVisa website or contact the Embassy of Oman before travel, especially if you have any questions about your nationality's requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common queries about Oman travel with UK BRP

No, having a UK BRP does not provide special visa privileges for Oman entry. Your entry requirements are determined solely by your passport nationality. Oman operates a nationality-based visa system where your UK residence status is irrelevant to entry requirements. Check the official Royal Oman Police website for your specific nationality's requirements.

No, the 14-day visa-free period cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than 14 days, you should apply for a 30-day eVisa online before your trip. Alternatively, you could exit Oman and re-enter for a new 14-day period, though frequent border runs are not recommended and may raise suspicion.

Yes, working remotely for non-Omani employers is generally permitted on tourist status. Oman is increasingly digital nomad friendly with good internet infrastructure in major cities. However, you cannot work for Omani companies or receive income from Omani sources without proper work authorization.

Oman is moderately priced and generally less expensive than UAE but more costly than some other regional destinations. Budget travelers can manage on OMR 25-35 (£55-77) per day, while comfortable travel requires OMR 50-80 (£110-176) daily. The strong Omani Rial makes costs significant for travelers from countries with weaker currencies.

Oman is extremely safe and considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East. Women travelers generally feel very secure, though modest dress is important. Crime rates are very low, and Omanis are known for their hospitality and helpfulness toward tourists. Standard travel precautions apply, especially for desert and mountain activities.

Renting a car is by far the best way to explore Oman, offering freedom to visit remote wadis, deserts, and mountains. Fuel is very cheap, roads are generally good, and parking is rarely an issue. For desert and mountain areas, a 4WD is recommended. Public transport is limited, and many of Oman's best attractions are only accessible by private vehicle.

This is uncertain and depends on specific eligibility criteria. Some eVisa categories allow applicants with residence in certain countries (including the UK) to apply, but Oman's systems may not be equipped to verify UK digital immigration status. If your nationality requires an Oman eVisa and you want to use UK residence as qualification, contact the Embassy of Oman to verify acceptance of digital documentation.

Oman is a conservative Muslim country but very welcoming to tourists. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), especially when visiting mosques or traditional areas. Friday is the holy day with some business closures. During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking in public during daylight hours. Omanis are exceptionally hospitable and helpful - don't be surprised by offers of assistance or invitations for coffee.

⚠️ Critical Information Disclaimer

Important: This website provides general information only and should not be relied upon as official immigration advice. Oman's visa policies are entirely nationality-based and can change frequently without notice. UK BRP status does not provide special visa privileges, and entry requirements depend solely on passport nationality.

Official Verification Required: Always verify current requirements with the Royal Oman Police eVisa portal, Oman Embassy London, or UK Foreign Office travel advice for your specific nationality before booking travel. The transition to eVisa-only systems means visa-on-arrival is no longer available, and proper pre-travel planning is essential.

Digital Documentation Uncertainty: Oman's acceptance of UK digital eVisas for proving UK residence status in certain eVisa applications remains unclear. Immigration verification systems may not be equipped to verify digital UK immigration documents, particularly for eligibility categories that depend on residence in qualifying countries.

Nationality-Based System: Unlike countries that recognize UK residence permits for special treatment, Oman's visa requirements are determined exclusively by passport nationality. This affects cost, application procedures, and entry privileges regardless of UK immigration status.

Extension and Overstay: Visa-free periods cannot be extended, and overstay penalties are strict. Planning accurate trip durations is essential, as immigration violations can result in fines, detention, and future entry restrictions.

Legal Responsibility: This site accepts no responsibility for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided, including denied entry, overstay penalties, travel disruptions, or issues related to nationality verification or digital documentation problems.

Last Updated: Information on this page was compiled in May 2025 based on available official sources. Oman's immigration policies are administered by the Royal Oman Police, and requirements can change without notice. For the most current information specific to your nationality, always consult official sources.

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