U.S. Citizens Can Now Visit Oman Without a Visa

Visitors from 103 nations will no longer need to secure a visa before traveling to the Gulf country of Oman, according to reports.

The new rule will allow tourists to stay in Oman visa-free for up to 10 days, Reuters reported, removing one barrier to tourism. The visa-free entry will apply to visitors from the U.S., the UK, many European countries, South Africa, Australia, and more, the Times of Oman noted.

Visitors will also have to arrive with a confirmed hotel reservation, health insurance, and a return ticket, according to the wire service.

Previously, U.S. citizens traveling to Oman were required to obtain a tourist visa, which they could apply for online on the Royal Oman Police E-Visa website. They also have to have a passport valid for at least six months.

The visa had cost $14 for 10 days or $52 for 30 days, according to the Matador Network.

Due to COVID-19, only Americans with valid residency can enter right now without prior approval, according to the U.S. Embassy in Oman. Travelers must arrive with a negative COVID-19 PCR test from within 96 hours, quarantine for seven days, and take a test on the eighth day. Residents are also required to have a valid health insurance policy for the duration of their stay.

However, Reuters reported Oman — a unique oasis with unreal beaches, absent of skyscrapers and full of awe-inspiring architecture -- recently said it would once again resume granting tourist visas to those on trips arranged by hotels and travel companies.

Oman, which is currently under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory by the U.S. Department of State due to COVID-19, has reported just over 127,000 confirmed cases of the virus, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Oman isn't the only country U.S. citizens can travel to without a visa. In fact, Henley & Partners Passport Index has ranked the U.S. passport one of the most powerful in the world since Americans can travel visa-free to 185 destinations.

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram.