Muscat, June 12: Taking cue from neighbours UAE and Qatar, Oman has now offered visa on arrival for Indian travellers. But there are riders attached to the unsponsored visa programme. The beneficiary should have a valid visa of either of the following five countries - S, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan and Schengen States.

The children and spouses of those with a valid visa of any of the above countries will also be extended the facility, provided they pay 20 Omani Rial for the same.

Apart from the above prerequisite condition, the beneficiary should also have a confirmed hotel ticket and hotel accommodation.

The decision by Oman Tourism Ministry comes months after UAE, which witnesses the largest influx of Indian tourists, offered visa on arrival for Indians. The decision by Emirates was replicated by Qatar last August, offering free visa on arrival to Indians landing in the nation with a valid passport. The facility granted by UAE and Qatar was sans riders.

According to a report, Indians form the largest visitor to Gulf nations. Apart from tourism, a large number of Indian nationals visit the Middle East for trade, business and employment purposes.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 12, 2018 10:52 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).