Boosting cross-border tourism between the United Arab Emirates and Oman

14-02-24

Travel between the UAE and Oman has been greatly simplified and accelerated thanks to the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for borderless travel.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) and the Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) have entered into an agreement to promote tourism between Ras Al Khaimah and the Governorate of Musandam in Oman, according to reports in the Khaleej Times newspaper. Musandam, bordering Ras Al Khaimah, is a sought-after destination for UAE residents and visitors in search of exciting water sports.

This MoU seeks to boost tourism between the two destinations through joint marketing strategies, improved transport links, advantageous visa conditions for international tourists, and the offering of exclusive tour packages. "The geographical proximity of Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam, our common Al Hajar mountain range, and our deep cultural and historical ties, make this collaboration a particularly significant initiative," said Raki Phillips, executive director of RAK Tourism Development Authority.

The agreement, which was signed in November 2023 during the World Travel Market in London, also provides for the simplification of border procedures. "While UAE residents must process a visa online before arriving in Oman, and have the option of obtaining one upon arrival, a crucial aspect of our collaboration is to facilitate border crossings to make travel more accessible and less tedious for residents of both countries," Phillips explained.

In addition, the agreement is primarily aimed at allowing international tourists to explore both destinations in a single trip. "A unified Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) tourist visa has also recently been approved, which, once implemented, will further facilitate travel between Gulf member states, greatly benefiting travelers and stimulating regional tourism."