Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that Maldivians travelling to Oman need to meet specific conditions to receive on-arrival visas. The statement was made after a Maldivian posted on social media expressing concern over not being allowed into Oman with an on-arrival visa.
In March, the foreign ministry announced that Maldivians travelling to Oman have been given visa exemptions, allowing those holding valid passports to enter and stay in Oman for a maximum period of 14 days from the day of their entry. The ministry had stated that the visa exemption is subject to certain requirements including passport validity of a minimum of six months, a prior and confirmed hotel booking, health insurance, and a return ticket.
In a recent press release, the foreign ministry stated that it was officially informed by the relevant authorities of the Omani government's decision at the time. However, the ministry has since received information that travellers to Oman can receive a 14-day on-arrival visa only if certain conditions are met. As such, on-arrival visas are available to travellers to Oman if they have a valid visa from or are citizens of the United Kingdom (UK), the United States (US), Canada, Australia, Japan, or Schengen countries with confirmed hotel bookings and return tickets and health insurance.
The ministry advised Maldivians who do not meet the conditions to obtain visas prior to travelling to Oman. The ministry added that it is holding discussions with the relevant authorities of Oman to arrange for unconditional on-arrival visas for Maldivians.