MUSCAT, Dec 6: Filipino nationals will be able to travel to Oman without a visa starting in 2026, the Omani Embassy announced during Oman’s National Day celebrations in Makati City on Wednesday, November 19.

Oman’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Nasser Said Abdullah Al Manwari, said Filipinos visiting Oman for up to two weeks will be granted visa-free entry, marking a landmark move in bilateral relations.

“This will make Oman the first country in the Middle East to waive visas for Filipino travelers,” Al Manwari told reporters in remarks carried by GMA News. “Filipinos will be able to visit Oman for around two weeks without a visa starting next year.”

The ambassador expressed optimism that the decision would lead to a significant rise in Filipino tourism to the Sultanate. He noted that easing travel requirements is expected to encourage more Filipinos to explore Oman as a destination.

Currently, direct flights operate between Manila and Muscat, and Oman is working to expand air connectivity. Al Manwari revealed plans for an additional direct flight to Cebu and said discussions are underway to bring more airlines onto the route, subject to airport capacity limitations in Manila.

“We are planning to increase the number of flights, including the possibility of a direct Cebu–Muscat connection,” he said. “This expansion will involve not only Oman Air but potentially other carriers in the coming years.”

Encouraging Filipinos to experience Oman, the ambassador highlighted the country’s diverse natural attractions, from mountains and coastlines to vast desert landscapes.

“Oman offers something truly unique in the Middle East,” Al Manwari said. “We warmly invite our Filipino friends to visit and discover what makes Oman so special.”