In a groundbreaking move that promises to make travel easier and more exciting, Oman will welcome Filipino visitors without the need for a visa for up to two weeks starting next year. The announcement, made during Oman’s National Day celebrations in Makati City by the Omani Embassy in the Philippines, is expected to open new doors for tourism and deepen the growing ties between the two nations.
Visa free travel for Filipinos
According to Khaleej Times, the Oman Embassy in the Philippines confirmed Filipino citizens will no longer need a visa for stays of up to two weeks beginning in 2026. The announcement was made during Oman’s National Day celebrations held in Makati City on November 19.Oman’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari, highlighted that Oman will become the first Middle Eastern country to offer visa-free access to Filipino travelers. He told reporters, according to GMA News, “You can enjoy Oman anytime without a visa. Next year, it will be around two weeks without visa.”The ambassador expressed optimism that this policy would encourage more Filipinos to visit Oman, predicting a significant increase in tourism. “I think the number of tourists will increase dramatically after the waiving of the visas of the Filipino,” he said.
Expanding flight connections
Currently, travelers from Manila can reach Oman through direct flights to Muscat. Ambassador Manwari revealed that the country is exploring ways to expand its air connectivity. Plans include launching an additional direct flight to Cebu and potentially involving other airlines on the route.He stated, “We are ready to increase the number of flights. There is a plan to have another direct flight to Cebu. It’s not only Oman Air, but we have other airlines. We are working on that. We are looking to increase the flights from Manila, but the capacity of NAIA… maybe in the future, in the coming years.”This expansion is expected to make traveling to Oman more accessible and convenient for Filipino tourists.Beyond visa access, Ambassador Manwari encouraged Filipinos to explore Oman’s diverse landscapes. He described the country as a destination unlike any other in the Middle East. “We have mountains, by the coast. We have sands… For our Filipino friends, please visit Oman. It is something amazing. It is unique in the Middle East,” he noted.Oman offers a blend of coastal beauty, desert landscapes, and mountainous regions, providing travelers with a wide range of experiences, from scenic beach escapes to desert adventures and cultural exploration.
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