Saudi Arabia and Oman are planning to launch a joint tourist visa, as part of a series of initiatives to boost tourism between the two countries. The visa will allow visitors to travel freely between the two Gulf nations, which offer diverse natural and cultural attractions.
What Are The Benefits Of The Joint Visa?
The joint visa aims to attract foreign tourists, citizens of both countries, and residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, which also include the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. The visa will facilitate travel and enhance cooperation in the tourism sector, as well as other fields such as investment, trade, and culture.
The joint visa will also be accompanied by seasonal flights and a joint tourism calendar, which will showcase the events and festivals in both countries throughout the year. The two countries will also support entrepreneurs and train professionals in the tourism industry, under a strategy approved by the GCC leaders in December last year.
How Successful Are Saudi Arabia And Oman In Tourism?
Saudi Arabia and Oman are among the leading tourist destinations in the region, with a rich heritage and a variety of landscapes. Both countries have witnessed a significant increase in tourist arrivals and spending in recent years, especially after opening up their borders and easing visa restrictions.
In the first quarter of this year, approximately 164,000 tourists from Oman visited Saudi Arabia, representing a remarkable 136 percent increase compared to the same period last year. They spent around SR310 million, an increase of 71 percent. Similarly, nearly 49,000 tourists from Saudi Arabia visited Oman during the same period, experiencing a notable 92 percent growth. They spent more than OMR20 million, an increase of 117 percent.
What Are Some Of The Attractions In Saudi Arabia And Oman?
Saudi Arabia and Oman have a lot to offer to tourists, from historical sited and cultural landmarks to natural wonders and modern amenities. Here are some examples of what you can see and do in each country:
SAUDI ARABIA | OMAN |
- Visit AlUla, an ancient city with rock-out tombs and monuments dating back to thousands of years ago. | - Explore Muscat, the capital city with a blend of tradition and modernity, featuring mosques, museums and markets. |
- Experience the hospitality and cuisine of Asir, a mountainous region with colorful villages and terraced farms. | - Enjoy the beauty and adventure of Wahiba Sands, a desert area with golden dunes and Bedouin camps. |
- Discover the diversity and wildlife of NEOM, a futuristic city that aims to be a hub for innovation and sustainability. | - Marvel at the majesty and mystery of Salalah, a coastal city that transforms into a green oasis during the monsoon season. |
How Can I Apply For The Joint Visa?
The joint visa is expected to be launched soon, as part of the ongoing cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Oman. The details of the application process and the eligibility criteria have not been announced yet, but they will likely be similar to the existing e-visa systems in both countries.
To apply for an e-visa to Saudi Arabia, you need to visit visa.visitsaudi.com and fill out an online form with your personal and travel information. You also need to pay a fee of SR440 (about $117) using a credit card. The e-visa is valid for one year from the date of issue and allows multiple entries for up to 90 days per entry.
To apply for an e-visa to Oman, you need to visit evisa.rop.gov.om and create an account with your email address. you then need to complete an online application with your personal and travel details. You also need to pay a fee of OMR20 (about $52) using a credit card. The e-visa is valid for one month from the date of issue, and allows a single entry for up to 30 days.
Conclusion
The joint visa between Saudi Arabia and Oman is a promising initiative that will enhance tourism cooperation and exchange between the two countries. It will also benefit travelers who want to explore the diverse attractions and cultures of both destinations. The joint visa is expected to be launched soon, so stay tuned for more updates.
