With so many flight cancellations and last-minute changes, it is hard for travelers to keep up with the latest news and entry requirements.
For those who are planning to travel from India to Oman, there have been recent updates to the entry requirements, flight schedules, and in-country restrictions. Our article has everything you need to know about the status of flights from India to Oman, as well as additional rules for traveling within Oman.
Before traveling to Oman, it is advised to check here if you need a visa to Oman, as well as how to apply for one.
The status of flights from India to Oman at the moment
At the moment, there are a handful of direct flights from India to Oman. These are carried out by Air India, Oman Air, and Go Air from major airline hubs such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, among others.
There are also plenty of flights from India that include a stopover on their way to Oman. These flights typically have a layover in major Gulf-based airports like Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Sharjah Airport (SHJ) in Dubai, UAE; Hamad International Airport (DIA) in Doha, Qatar; and King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Travelers who are flying from Oman to India will be pleased to know that there are also flights available. Airlines who have this route include SpiceJet, Air Arabia, Oman Air, Emirates, and Air India.
Those who are planning to fly should follow the standard rules and precautions set forth by airlines. This usually consists of wearing a mask over your nose and mouth, maintaining a safe social distance (2 meters), and frequently cleaning your hands and/or using sanitizer.
Likewise, it is recommended to buy flexible airline tickets and hotel accommodations in case of a sudden change of plans or cancellation.
Travelers who are coming back home to India from abroad (Oman or otherwise) are encouraged to quarantine and self-monitor themselves until they have a negative PCR test result.
Oman entry restrictions
Those who wish to travel from India to Oman are recommended to double-check entry requirements into the Sultanate of Oman ahead of time in order to minimize inconveniences.
The latest news, which came into effect on April 8th, 2021, is that entry to Oman is restricted and only Omani citizens and holders of Oman residence permits are allowed to enter.
Likewise, the Royal Oman Police confirmed that travelers who have been issued a visa to date can enter Oman as long as they adhere to the quarantine requirements.
Those who fall into either of those categories must complete a pre-registration form, as well as prepay for the PCR test that will be done once they arrive in the country.
All passengers are required to have adequate health insurance that will the cost of
treatment from COVID-19 (if necessary) for a minimum of one month. This does not apply to Omani citizens, GCC nationals, and those who have a free treatment card.
Incoming arrivals must quarantine for at least seven nights in an approved hotel (pre-booked before arrival) and download the Tarassud+ application to their mobile phone. The passenger will also be given a Tarassud that tracks their activity to make sure that they do not break their quarantine. On the eighth day, it is possible to ‘test out’ of quarantine by taking the PCR test.
Likewise, children who are younger than 15 years old are exempt from both the PCR test and having to wear the Tarrasud+ bracelet.
Domestic restrictions in Oman
As with most countries who are battling the pandemic, there are a few restrictions for those who are already in Oman.
During the month of Ramadan, which begins on April 14 and lasts until May 12, there is a nighttime curfew. This means that all commercial activities will be closed between 9 PM to 4 AM. People are required to remain indoors and movement (both walking and transport) is prohibited.
Likewise, all social gatherings, sports, and cultural activities are suspended, and working hours will be reduced from eight hours to six hours a day.