National Day Holidays: A Prime Opportunity to Boost Tourism and Local Business in Oman
With National Day holidays already announced, now is the perfect time to plan how to spend the extended weekends or to invite friends and family from neighboring countries or beyond to visit the Sultanate of Oman.
As night temperatures are expected to drop significantly in the coming days, Jabal Akhdar (the Green Mountains) emerges as a favored destination. Known for its terrace farming, camping opportunities, and luxurious resorts, Jabal Akhdar attracted over 89,000 visitors in the first half of 2025.
Other sought-after locations include the east coast beaches, the vast Wahiba Sands desert, Wadi Sahab, and Wadi Bani Khalid.
Visa Information
Most tourists, including GCC residents, must apply for an e-visa through the Royal Oman Police website. Requirements include a valid passport, return flight tickets, and proof of accommodation such as a hotel reservation. Some nationalities benefit from visa-free entry or visas on arrival.
Residents of the UAE and Saudi Arabia can enter Oman via designated land borders, while residents of Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain may cross through Saudi Arabian land borders.
In the first eight months of 2025, Oman welcomed 2.69 million visitors, with the largest groups coming from the UAE, India, and Saudi Arabia. According to tourism analyst Vinod R Nair, inbound tourist numbers rose by 5.3% in August 2025 compared to August 2024.
India remains Oman’s second-largest source of tourists, with ambitions to attract one million Indian visitors yearly. Notably, arrivals from Saudi Arabia increased by 45%.
Exploring Muscat
Tourists in Muscat can enjoy a blend of historical sites, vibrant souqs, and landscapes that combine modern architecture with traditional Omani culture. Key landmarks include:
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Royal Opera House
- Muttrah Souq
- Al Alam Palace
- Muttrah Fort
- Qurum Beach
- National Museum
- Al Mirani Fort
- Dolphin watching tours from Marina Bandar al Rowdha
- Al Mouj complex
- Daymaniat Islands
These attractions offer a rich experience for visitors seeking both cultural heritage and natural beauty in the capital.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s rising tourist influx, especially from key markets like India and Saudi Arabia, signals robust growth opportunities for hospitality, travel, and leisure businesses. The government’s streamlined visa policies and diverse attractions, from Jabal Akhdar to Muscat’s cultural sites, create a strategic advantage for investors aiming to capitalize on the expanding tourism sector. Businesses and entrepreneurs should prioritize enhancing visitor experiences and infrastructure ahead of peak travel seasons to harness this momentum effectively.
