In a significant diplomatic development enhancing travel freedom, the Sultanate of Oman will implement visa-free entry for Philippine passport holders beginning in 2026. The announcement was formally made by Oman’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari, during the recent celebration of Oman’s National Day held in Makati City on November 19.
This groundbreaking policy will permit Filipino citizens to visit Oman for tourism purposes for durations of up to fourteen days without requiring any visa authorization. Ambassador Manwari emphasized the historic nature of this decision, noting that Oman becomes the first nation in the Middle Eastern region to extend such a privilege to Philippine nationals. “This is the first country in the Middle East that will waive the visa for the Filipino people. So you can enjoy Oman anytime without visa,” the Ambassador stated in remarks reported by GMA News.
The strategic move is fundamentally designed to stimulate tourism growth and strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. Ambassador Manwari projected a substantial surge in visitor numbers from the Philippines following the policy’s implementation. To accommodate the anticipated increase in travel demand, Omani authorities are actively pursuing the expansion of air connectivity beyond the existing direct flights between Manila and Muscat. Development plans include establishing a new direct flight route to Cebu and engaging additional airlines to service these routes, contingent on addressing capacity considerations at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Beyond the logistical preparations, Ambassador Manwari extended a personal invitation to Filipino travelers, promoting Oman’s diverse attractions, from majestic mountain ranges and pristine coastal areas to vast desert landscapes. He characterized the country as a uniquely captivating destination within the Middle East, promising an extraordinary experience for visitors.