Visitors to Oman will now have to cough up more for short stay visas as the country has upped the charges that existed before.  

According to the Times of Oman, the tourists shall pay OMR 20(Dh 190.81) for minimum one-month-stay visa. Earlier, a tourist visa for 10 days would cost OMR 5 (Dh 47.70).

The tourists will, however, be able to renew their visas if they wish to stay longer.  

"It's good. I don't think this will keep people from visiting the country. If you compare Oman to other countries, their visa fees are much higher. Our neighbouring countries charge OMR35 to enter. I don't think this will hinder business," Riaz Kuttery, Chief Operations Officer of Mazoon Travels, was quoted as saying.

Additionally, visas have been made easier for people travelling from Iran, India, Russia and China.

The report quoting a statement released by the Ministry of Tourism stated that "the new e-visa Facilitation Initiative and Visa Procedures have been agreed with the Royal Oman Police. These new tourist markets are being targeted by the Ministry of Tourism, part of the 15 tourism initiatives of the National Program for the Promotion of Economic Diversification".

"Travel and tourism offices and hotels with 3, 4, and 5-star ratings will be allowed to submit applications for the issuance of tourist visas from the General Directorate of Passports and Residence. Tourists coming from the four countries and through hotels and tourism offices will be granted the necessary facilities for the issuance of tourist visas."

Source: Khaleej Times