Experience an incredible journey across the stunning landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula with the Oman and Qatar Joint Tourist Visa. This innovative visa program, a collaboration between the Sultanate of Oman and the State of Qatar, simplifies travel between these two culturally rich nations.

This guide provides all the essential information about the Oman and Qatar Joint Tourist Visa, including eligibility criteria, the application process, validity period, and valuable tips to make your dream vacation a reality.

Meaning of a Qatar Oman Joint Visa

The Qatar Visa is designed to simplify travel between Qatar and Oman for tourists. It's a collaborative effort established by both countries to simplify the visa application procedure for visitors from 37 eligible nationalities. This visa is issued upon arrival at the immigration counter in the Arrival Terminal of Doha International Airport.

Here's what this visa offers:

• Seamless Travel: This single visa allows you to freely move between Qatar and Oman for the duration of its validity.
• Convenience: This eliminates the need to apply for separate visas for each country, saving time and effort.
• Exploration Opportunities: The visa allows you to explore the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems of both Qatar and Oman, offering a richer travel experience.

Important Note: This visa restricts travel to other countries during its validity period. If you plan to visit a third country, you must apply for a new visa.

Who Can Apply for the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa?

The Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa is accessible to citizens of 37 countries, including: 

Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vatican City.

Exploring Oman & Qatar (Understanding the Visa Validity)

Upon obtaining the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa, you can stay in Qatar, Oman, or both for up to 30 days. This visa allows you to divide your time between the two countries or fully immerse yourself in the experiences of one. Initially, the visa permits a one-month stay, with the possibility of extending it for an additional month.

Essential Requirements for Application

• The applicant must be a citizen of one of the 37 countries listed above.
• An original passport with 6+ months validity is mandatory.
• This visa is not available to holders of temporary passports and travel documents.
• The applicant must have a round-trip ticket.

Note: This service excludes holders of Travel Documents, except those carrying 'British Travel Documents' valid for 4 years and with at least 1 year remaining.

Extension on Qatar Oman Joint Visa

It is possible to extend a stay in Qatar for an additional thirty days by submitting a payment of one hundred Qatari Riyals on the Qatar Ministry of Interior website. However, based on information from the Oman Royal Office website, it appears that extending a stay in Oman is not permitted.

Obtaining the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa 

Embarking on an Arabian adventure with the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa requires a straightforward application process. While the specifics may differ slightly depending on your initial entry point (Qatar or Oman), both countries offer streamlined procedures for a smooth experience.

Entering Qatar First: Ministry of Interior Visa Process

1. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport holds a minimum validity period of six months from your intended arrival date.
2. Joint Visa Application: Upon arrival at Doha airport, approach an immigration officer and request the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa.
3. Photograph Submission: Provide two recent passport-sized photographs.
4. Proof of Financial Means: Present a bank statement reflecting an average balance of QAR 5,000 (approximately USD 140) over the past three months.
5. Visa Fee Payment: To secure your Qatar Oman visa, pay the visa fee of QAR 100 (around USD 28).
6. Oman Entry Stamp: It's highly recommended that you request a special stamp on your passport verifying your eligibility to enter Oman.

Entering Oman First: Royal Oman Police Visa Process

Depending on your situation, you will follow one of these two visa application categories:

1. Visa Type 20A: Apply for this visa outside Oman. A non-refundable fee of OMR 10 (approximately USD 26) applies.
2. Visa Type 20B: Hold a valid Qatar Visa before applying for the Oman visa. Enter Oman directly from Qatar. This visa is issued free of charge in Oman.

General Visa Conditions:

• Visa Sticker: The visa sticker must explicitly mention access to both Qatar and Oman.
• Passport Validity: Your passport must hold a minimum validity of six months upon entering Oman.
• Length of Stay: The visa grants a single entry into Oman with a maximum stay of 30 days in both countries combined. Extensions are not permitted in Oman, and overstaying incurs a daily fine of OMR 10 (USD 26).
• Visa Refusal History: You should not have a previous record of visa denial for Oman.
• Final Entry Decision: The Royal Oman Police officer at the port of entry holds the final authority to grant or deny entry into Oman.

Following these guidelines and adhering to the application procedures, you can effortlessly obtain the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa and embark on a remarkable journey through the Arabian Peninsula's captivating landscapes and cultural treasures.

Transportation Options Between Qatar and Oman

Air Travel

Air travel is the most suitable and comfortable method of transportation between Qatar and Oman. Several airlines operate regular flights connecting Doha, Qatar, and Muscat, Oman.

Airlines:

• Oman Air
• Qatar Airways
• SalamAir
• FlyDubai

Flight Frequency: Multiple daily flights are available. Travel Time: Approximately 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Ticket prices fluctuate based on airline, booking period, and season. 

Recommendation: To secure the most advantageous fares, it is advisable to book flights in advance.

Ferry Service

Regrettably, ferry services between Qatar and Oman are currently unavailable.

Road Travel

While driving between Qatar and Oman is feasible, the journey is extensive, requiring approximately 10 to 12 hours. Additionally, travelers must navigate border crossings, which can be time-consuming. Consequently, this mode of transportation is only recommended for tourists if they possess ample time and enjoy long-distance driving.

Time Difference: Qatar's time is one hour behind Oman's.

Local Customs and Etiquette in Qatar and Oman

Qatar and Oman, both steeped in rich Islamic traditions, share many cultural similarities. Understanding and respecting these customs is essential for a pleasant and meaningful visit.

• Dress Code

To respect local customs, visitors should dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, while men should avoid wearing shorts, especially in public places and religious sites. Beachwear is appropriate in designated areas but should not be worn in public spaces.

• Respect for Religion

Islam is the predominant religion in both countries. It's essential to show respect for Islamic practices, especially during Ramadan. Avoid public eating or drinking during daylight hours and dress appropriately when visiting mosques.

• Social Interactions

A handshake is a common greeting, but avoid touching the opposite sex in public, unless it's within family or close friend circles. Both cultures value hospitality, so accept invitations graciously, even if it means participating in lengthy social interactions. Public displays of affection should be avoided as they are considered inappropriate.

• General Etiquette

While punctuality is valued, it's acceptable to arrive a few minutes late for social gatherings. Always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of individuals. The left hand is considered unclean in many cultures, so avoid using it for greetings or passing objects

Note: Customs and expectations can vary within these countries. Always observe and adapt to the specific context of your interactions.

Conclusion

Embarking on a dual adventure through Qatar and Oman is now easier than ever with the Qatar Oman Joint Tourist Visa. You can confidently plan your dream vacation by understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and visa conditions. Remember to carefully review the specific guidelines for entering Qatar or Oman first to ensure a smooth arrival. With meticulous preparation and a sense of adventure, you're ready to immerse yourself in the captivating allure of the Arabian Peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit other countries besides Qatar and Oman with this visa? Is there a difference between entering Qatar or Oman first? What exciting things can I do with this visa in each country? Do I need to book my accommodation in advance?

Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in October 2024, we recommend verifying with the appropriate agencies, embassies, and airlines to ensure complete accuracy regarding your travel plans.