Russia and Oman Sign 30-Day Visa-Free Agreement: New Entry Rules Announced

Oman has officially extended the visa-free stay period for Russian citizens from 14 to 30 days. The agreement between the two countries was signed on April 22, 2025, in Moscow and ratified by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman on June 4, according to Shabiba.

Visa-Free Stay Extended to 30 Days

The visa-free regime applies to holders of regular international passports for short-term trips, including tourism and business purposes. The total period of stay under this regime may not exceed 90 days per calendar year. The agreement does not cover travel for employment, education, or permanent residence.

The Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) reminds that Oman first introduced visa-free entry for Russian citizens in 2020, allowing 14 days without extension. Travelers still need to present a confirmed hotel booking, return ticket, and health insurance. These requirements remain in place under the new 30-day arrangement.

Growing Tourism Flow Between Russia and Oman

According to Rossiyskaya Gazeta, 18,100 Russians visited Oman in 2024, while 9,500 Omani citizens traveled to Russia. Kommersant provides a higher estimate of around 70,000 Russian visits last year. Mayya Kotlyar, head of Mayel Travel, predicts that the new visa rules could boost traffic by 30–40%.

Tour operator Intourist reported that tourism from Oman to Russia grew nearly fivefold last year and expects further growth. Previously, Omani citizens had to obtain electronic visas to enter Russia. According to Arthur Muradyan, ATOR Vice President and CEO of Space Travel, while e-visas were convenient, they were not cheap — approximately $50 per person — and required at least four days to process, limiting last-minute bookings.

"Oman’s population is around 5 million, half the size of the UAE, but its purchasing power is high, making it an attractive market for Russian tourism," Muradyan emphasized.

Oman: A Promising Destination for Russian Tourists

Travel expert Olga Rastegaeva believes Oman may become a strong alternative to other Gulf destinations:

"Oman is a fascinating country with a rich history, completely different from neighboring UAE. It offers ancient sites, mountains, beaches, whale watching, cultural attractions, and the capital Muscat is well worth a visit."

Air Travel Expands Between Russia and Oman

Direct air service already operates between the two countries. Oman Air currently offers five flights per week. As of May 6, 2025, the schedule was reduced to two flights weekly, with plans to increase to three flights per week starting July 1. According to RBC, the Moscow-Muscat flight takes approximately six hours. The visa exemption may further encourage airline expansion.

Rising Demand for Luxury Travel

According to Sletat.ru, Russian travelers mainly book five-star hotels. A one-week trip for two starts at:

4-star hotels: from ₽157,000 ($1,997)

5-star hotels: from ₽192,000 ($2,442)

All-inclusive packages: from ₽240,000 ($3,053)

Tour operators expect further liberalization of travel arrangements between Russia and other Gulf states. Currently, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain still require electronic visas, while Qatari visitors must apply for visas at consulates.