MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. The agreement signed today by Russia and Oman on the mutual abolition of visa requirements for holders of ordinary passports will give a new impetus to the development of tourism between the two countries, Economic Development Minister Federation Maxim Reshetnikov said in a commentary to Channel One.
The agreement on the abolition of the visa regime was signed today as part of negotiations between Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq Al Said. "Since the year before last, an electronic visa has been in effect there. As a result, the flow of Omani citizens who go on vacation to Russia has increased fivefold compared to last year. This is very good, but abolition of visas will give it [tourism] another impetus," Reshetnikov said.
The Economic Development Ministry stressed that the route network of air traffic with the kingdom is also developing.
"Muscat is also becoming such a hub in addition to the fact that it is a very attractive destination, a point of destination for tourists, and so on," he said.
Previously, Russians were required to apply for a 14-day visa to enter Oman, provided at no cost. Such visas could not be extended or changed to another type. Now Russia and Oman have agreed that their citizens will be able to "enter, transit and exit" without visas.
The visa-free travel agreement does not apply to those entering for permanent residence, study or work. If a person intends to stay in the country for more than 30 days at a time or 90 days per year, he must obtain a visa.
The agreement will enter into force after 30 days from the date of the last notification of the completion of the necessary domestic procedures.