Oman has announced free multiple-entry visa for World Cup fans having Hayya Card – an ID issued by Qatar for those attending the World Cup 2022.

In a media briefing on Wednesday, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism revealed its plans and preparations for hosting World Cup fans.

Lt. Colonel Ahmed bin Saeed al Ghafri, Director of Administrative and Financial Affairs, Directorate General of Passports and Civil Status, informed that the fan visa will be free and valid for 60 days. “The Hayya Card holder is allowed to accompany his first-degree relatives for a stay in Oman. The visa can also be changed to another category while in the sultanate.”

Fast lanes at Muscat International Airport

Saud bin Nasser al Hubaishi, chief of operations, Oman Airports Company, spoke about the preparations at Muscat International Airport to facilitate the movement of fans through special lanes for both departure and arrival flights.

“The airport will have dedicated gates for aircraft carrying World Cup fans, while dedicated customs counters and special staff will serve to guide travelers through the designated fast lanes.”

Fan village

Shabib al Maamari, Director General of the National Travel Operator Visit Oman, representative of Omran Group, revealed the plans on hosting tourists and fans. “We are offering tourism offerings through 20,000 hotels and more than 200 tourist products in cooperation with more than 35 local operators and 10 land transporters.”

A fan village spread over 9,000sqm will be established at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Center. “The village will hold a variety of activities and events during the World Cup in cooperation with international companies, where the details will be announced in the coming days,” Maamari said.