Latest news with #eVisa
Time Out Abu Dhabi
an hour ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi to Salalah: The complete guide on travel, visas and what to do
If you're planning a getaway this summer and misty mountains and green hills sound increasingly appealing, you're probably considering heading from Abu Dhabi to Salalah. The southern Omani city gets a lot of attention this time of year and for good reason — between June and September, it turns into one of the few places in the region that actually cools down. This isn't your average beach trip though and it's not exactly straightforward if you've never been before. So here's a practical breakdown of everything you need to know if you're thinking of heading to Salalah during Khareef season. How to get from Abu Dhabi to Salalah Credit: Tanja Cotoaga/Unsplash Direct flights from Abu Dhabi take just under two hours. Wizz Air, Air Arabia and Etihad all operate seasonal routes, with Wizz Air offering the cheapest fares: Wizz Air: From Dhs179 (budget-friendly, no frills) Air Arabia: From Dhs399 Etihad Airways: From Dhs1,205 (if you're after full-service and convenience) Flights peak Khareef season (late July to early September) and they fill up quickly – so book early if you're set on flying. By road It's a long one – expect 12 to 14 hours on the road, depending on where you cross the border. Most people drive via Al Ain into Oman, then take the route through Nizwa and Haima. It's doable, but not short. You'll need car insurance that covers Oman and it's worth checking in advance whether your vehicle can be taken across the border (especially if it's leased or on finance). If you're stopping overnight, Muscat or Duqm are the usual halfway points. Visa info for UAE residents UAE residents need a tourist visa to enter Oman, even for short stays. Here's what you will need: Apply online via the Oman eVisa platform Ten-day tourist visas cost 5 OMR (around Dhs48) Processing is quick, but best not to leave it until the last minute You'll need at least six months' passport validity and if you're driving, make sure your car registration and GCC insurance are in order. Top tip: Apply at least 48 hours in advance during peak travel periods. What is Khareef season actually like? Khareef officially runs from June 21 to September 20, but the green really kicks in by late June and peaks around August. Expect temps around mid-20s°C and there can be fog, drizzle and light rain. Nights can get chilly, especially in the mountains and visibility drops in places like Jabal Samhan or Wadi Darbat. The closer you get to September, the less green it's likely to be – though there's still cooler weather and fewer crowds. Bring a light jacket, decent shoes and don't expect to swim in the sea – it might be too rough. What to do while you're there This isn't a city break in the typical sense – most of what you'll want to see is outside the city. If you don't rent a car, your options will be limited. Top sites (all reachable by car): Wadi Darbat: picnic spot with waterfalls, paddle boats and misty hills picnic spot with waterfalls, paddle boats and misty hills Al Mughsail: cliffs, blowholes and views over the Arabian Sea cliffs, blowholes and views over the Arabian Sea Ain Athum and Sahalnoot: natural springs surrounded by greenery natural springs surrounded by greenery Jabal Samhan: elevated viewpoints, dramatic fog and wild mountain roads elevated viewpoints, dramatic fog and wild mountain roads Marneef Cave: walkable coastal spot near the blowholes walkable coastal spot near the blowholes Frankincense Land Museum: archaeological site with history on the incense trade For longer stays, people often explore Taqah, Mirbat, or head further into the mountains. Things to know before you go Pack layers – it gets cool, especially in the hills. Traffic gets hectic around Eid and weekends. Book accommodation and transport early. Internet and mobile service can be spotty in remote areas – download your maps. No roaming? Get an Omani SIM at Salalah Airport or local shops. Be respectful of local customs – it's a conservative region, especially in villages. Where to stay You'll find everything from budget hotels to five-star resorts. If you're travelling during Eid or mid-August, book well in advance. Salalah fills up quickly during peak Khareef. Want to stay near the greenery? Try mountain guesthouses near Wadi Darbat. Prefer city convenience? Salalah city centre has familiar hotel chains. Road-tripping with friends or family? Look for villas or serviced apartments. Why Salalah is trending in the UAE Abu Dhabi has recently invested Dhs764 million into Salalah's tourism sector – including a huge beachfront resort project, marinas and luxury developments. It's part of a bigger UAE–Oman tourism push, so expect even more road trip-friendly resorts and high-end options over the next few years. For now, though, Salalah remains a refreshing, under-the-radar summer escape – and one that's surprisingly easy to reach. Time Out tip: Want to skip the flight and take the scenic route? Daily buses to Salalah run from Abu Dhabi and Sharjah for under Dhs100 – perfect if you're going with friends and don't want to drive. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially ends in Abu Dhabi No complaints here 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
5 hours ago
- Business
- Business Standard
No more visa stickers: UK mandates eVisas for students, skilled workers
If you're planning to study or work in the UK, there's a new visa process in place from July 15, 2025. The UK government has begun issuing eVisas for student and skilled worker categories, replacing the physical vignette that was earlier stamped in passports. No more visa stickers in passports Those applying for a UK work or study visa on or after July 15 will no longer receive a vignette, the sticker typically placed inside the passport. Instead, applicants will be issued a digital immigration status and will need to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa before travelling. The process will still require biometrics, but that part is now simpler too. 'From July 15, online applications will allow you to submit biometrics and collect your passport on the same day, so you don't have to come back to the Visa Application Centre again,' the UK government explained in a press release. Applicants will be informed of the decision by email, as per the usual UKVI processing timelines. Vignettes still for dependants and other categories Those applying as dependants or under visa routes other than work or study will still receive a vignette in their passport. This includes family members accompanying the main applicant and categories such as visitor visas or settlement routes. 'You'll still get a vignette if you apply as a dependant for any visa or as a main applicant for visas other than work or study,' the government clarified. A digital shift in immigration records The UK is now transitioning from physical immigration documents to a digital system, and the eVisa is a key part of that. 'These changes to the UK visa system will make it much simpler for students and workers to prove their identity and visa status. It also means applicants can hold onto their passports, saving them time,' said Jane Marriott, UK High Commissioner to India. The move is expected to eliminate the need for physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), with all immigration records linked to an individual's UKVI account. Who gets an eVisa now EVisas are now being issued to main applicants under the following routes: Student visas, including short-term study up to 11 months Global Business Mobility routes: Senior or specialist worker, graduate trainee, UK expansion worker, service supplier, and secondment worker Global talent visa International sportsperson visa Skilled worker visas, including health and care roles Temporary work visas under charity, creative, religious, government-authorised exchange, and international agreement categories Youth mobility scheme Creating a UKVI account To access the eVisa, applicants must create a UKVI account. This is necessary for anyone granted a visa through a digital notice—either via a decision letter or a Form for Affixing a Visa (FAV)—and those without a valid identity document, such as an expired BRP or passport. The UK's move to eVisas is part of a phased shift towards a fully digital immigration system. The government has confirmed that all BRP holders will eventually need to transition to this new digital system by setting up their UKVI accounts.
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Which Oman visa option works best for you in 2025: Oman eVisa or GCC unified tourist visa?
Exploring Oman is easier than ever with visa-free entry and convenient eVisa options/ Image: File TL;DR Citizens of 100+ countries can enter Oman visa-free for 14 days with simple conditions. Some travelers from other countries get visa-free entry if they hold visas or residency from trusted nations. The Oman eVisa is the easiest way to visit for longer stays or if you're not eligible for visa-free entry. Oman has quickly become a top travel destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and authentic experiences. To make visiting easier, Oman has simplified its visa rules for 2025, offering a variety of entry options to suit every traveler's needs, whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended stay. From visa-free entry available to citizens of many countries, to an easy online eVisa system, Oman strives to make travel smooth and hassle-free. Additionally, the upcoming GCC Unified Tourist Visa will soon allow visitors to explore several Gulf countries with a single visa, though it is not yet available. Understanding which Oman visa option applies to you can save time and hassle at the border. This guide breaks down Oman's visa policies for 2025, so you can prepare confidently before booking your trip. Oman's 14-Day Visa-Free Entry Program Oman welcomes citizens of over 100 countries to enter visa-free for up to 14 days. This initiative aims to boost tourism by making entry smooth and hassle-free. Eligible countries include most of Europe, North America, East Asia, Oceania, and several countries in South America and Africa. For example, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and many more are included. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Discover Whitefield's Best Office Space [See Now] Sumadhura Learn More Undo Requirements: Passport valid for at least six months from your date of arrival Confirmed hotel reservation Round-trip airline ticket Travel health insurance Proof of sufficient funds for your stay This visa-free stay is non-renewable and limited to 14 days. If you want to stay longer, you must apply for an eVisa. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) do not require any visa to enter Oman and can stay indefinitely. Conditional Visa-Free Entry for Certain Residents and Visa Holders If you're from a country not on the visa-free list (such as India, Egypt, Vietnam, or Morocco), you may still enter Oman visa-free for 14 days if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of these countries: United States United Kingdom Canada Any Schengen Area country Australia Japan Or permanent residency in a GCC country This policy also extends to accompanying spouses and children, even if they hold different nationalities. This recognizes the trust Oman places in the vetting process of these countries and facilitates easier travel for residents of these nations. Oman eVisa: The Online Visa Option If you're not eligible for visa-free entry, or if you plan to stay in Oman for more than 14 days, the eVisa is the most practical choice. The entire process is online and doesn't require a visit to an embassy. How to apply: Visit the official Royal Oman Police website Create an account Fill out the online application Upload your passport and a passport-style photo Pay the visa fee online There are a few eVisa types to choose from depending on how long you plan to stay. A 10-day single-entry visa costs about 5 Omani Rials, which is roughly $13 USD. For a longer visit, the 30-day single-entry visa is available for 20 Rials (around $52 USD). And if you're planning to come and go more than once, there's a 30-day multiple-entry visa priced at 50 Rials, or about $130 USD. The eVisa is a practical choice for anyone who needs more flexibility or time in Oman. It's fast, paperless, and saves you a trip to a visa office. The GCC Unified Tourist Visa: What's Coming Next? A game-changer in regional travel is the upcoming GCC Unified Tourist Visa. This visa, once launched, will allow travelers to visit all six GCC countries, Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait, on a single visa. Current it is officially approved but facing delays, with expected rollout in late 2025 or early 2026. Why it matters: It will simplify multi-country travel within the Gulf, eliminating the need for separate visas for each country. For now, this visa is not yet available, so travelers must follow existing Oman visa rules. Which Oman Visa Option Works Best for You? If you're from one of the 100+ visa-free countries (like the US, UK, Germany, Australia, or Japan), the 14-day visa-free entry is the easiest choice. Just make sure you meet the basic requirements and keep your stay under two weeks. If your country isn't on the visa-free list but you hold a valid visa or residency from trusted countries (US, UK, Schengen, Canada, Australia, Japan, or GCC), you can still enter Oman visa-free for 14 days. If neither applies or you want to stay longer than 14 days, the eVisa is your best option. It's straightforward and you can apply online from anywhere. If you plan to visit multiple Gulf countries in the future, watch for the GCC Unified Tourist Visa launching late 2025 or early 2026. Until then, stick with Oman's current visa rules. Whether you qualify for Oman's generous visa-free program, prefer the convenience of an eVisa, or look forward to the future GCC Unified Tourist Visa, Oman is becoming more accessible than ever. Understanding your options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to this captivating destination. Ready to explore Oman? Check your eligibility, apply early, and get set for an unforgettable adventure!
Time of India
24-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Kuwait reboots eVisa system with new rules for GCC residents: Key info for travellers
Streamlined eVisa process aims to attract GCC-based travellers and boost regional tourism/Representative Image TL;DR: Kuwait reopened its improved e‑Visa portal in January 2025, allowing certain GCC‑based residents to apply online or obtain visa‑on‑arrival. Eligible applicants must hold a GCC residency of 6+ months, a valid passport, and work in specified professional categories such as doctors, engineers, teachers, journalists, and business managers. Excluded nationals must apply via diplomatic channels. E‑visa costs start at 3 KWD ($10), processed within 1–3 business days, valid for 90 days, and grants up to 30‑day stays. What's Changed: Platform Reopened, Rules Streamlined After a temporary suspension in December 2024 for system upgrades, Kuwait relaunched its Kuwait Visa portal in early 2025. The upgraded system offers digitally streamlined e‑Visa applications, specifically for residents residing in the GCC. This move is part of Kuwait's broader initiative to modernize immigration procedures, promote regional travel, and boost transparency while preserving national security standards. Who Qualifies? Application criteria for GCC expats include: Residency permit in GCC (UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain) valid for at least 6 months. Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date. Profession listed on Emirates ID (or equivalent GCC ID) must match an approved category like doctor, engineer, teacher, journalist, business manager, etc. Clean legal and immigration record. Excluded nationalities must apply via Kuwaiti missions. Application Steps & Documents Applicants must: Visit official Kuwait Visa Registration website, select GCC resident/tourist e‑Visa option. Create an account with email, phone number, and secure password. Upload supporting documents: Passport bio page, GCC residency page, recent passport photo, proof of accommodation or hotel booking, and return ticket. Enter professional occupation as listed on GCC residence ID. Pay the 3 KWD fee ($10)) online. Track the application, approval typically takes 1–3 business days. Present a printed copy of the e‑Visa upon arrival in Kuwait for immigration clearance. Once issued, the e‑Visa is valid for 90 days and allows an entry stay of up to 30 days. Visa on Arrival Option Eligible GCC residents may also opt for a visa on arrival, depending on airline discretion. Airlines like Emirates and Jazeera Air have approved boarding passengers with valid GCC visas and matching professional categories, though Kuwait Airways may apply stricter rules. Context: Bigger Picture and Updates This updated access aligns with Kuwait's broader regional strategy, including the upcoming rollout of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa ('GCC Grand Tours Visa') expected later in 2025 or early 2026. This single-entry visa will cover travel across all six GCC nations for tourism purposes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Many Filipinos don't know about this! Read More Undo Kuwait also continues to maintain strict penalties for overstaying or improper use of visas, with fines up to KD 2,000 and potential bans for violations. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has been witnessing a rapid shift in travel policies as member states strive to boost regional tourism and economic integration. While countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia have introduced long-term tourism and business visas to attract global talent and visitors, Kuwait has traditionally maintained stricter entry protocols. However, with the implementation of Vision 2035, Kuwait's national development roadmap, authorities are now actively modernizing administrative systems, including the digitization of immigration services. The simplified eVisa program is part of these reforms, aiming to make the country more accessible to GCC-based expatriates and regional tourists Why It Matters Greater accessibility : GCC residents in professions like medicine, education, journalism, or management can now apply directly from their host country. Speed & simplicity : Digital approvals in under 3 days improve travel flexibility. Tourism boost : Eases access for regional business and leisure travellers. Fair but firm policy : Eligibility rules and exclusions help balance openness with legal and security standards. Kuwait's revamped e‑Visa system for GCC residents marks a significant step in simplifying regional travel, particularly for qualified professionals who live and work in the GCC nations. With clear eligibility criteria, affordable fees, rapid turnaround, and visa-on-arrival options, the process is now more inclusive and efficient. It reflects Kuwait's growing commitment to modernizing immigration systems, facilitating regional mobility without compromising on compliance and security.
The Star
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
MyVisa 2.0 to elevate Immigration digital services
Ever-ready team: Elite Immigration enforcement personnel conducting a drill showcasing their operational capabilities. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star PUTRAJAYA: Enhanced digital service delivery from the Immigration Department for electronic visa applications is in the pipeline with the launch of MyVisa 2.0. The upgraded system was launched yesterday in conjunction with the 103rd Immigration Day celebrations and is slated for rollout on Aug 1. 'It is an enhanced version of the original MyVisa system introduced on Dec 1, 2021. The new system has been developed as an integrated digital visa platform, offering faster, safer and more efficient application experiences, in line with the expectations of citizens and international visitors who prioritise convenience in public services. 'MyVisa 2.0 incorporates various advanced technologies such as Optical Character Recognition, real-time notifications, smart automation and a dedicated mobile app for applicants. 'It provides a fully digital visa application process, including passport scanning, document uploads, virtual interviews, real-time tracking, eVisa approval with QR codes and interactive support via live chat,' the department said in a statement yesterday. It added that the new system will no longer require applicants to head to the Malaysian Representative Offices abroad. The 103rd Immigration Day celebration ceremony was launched by Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah on behalf of Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution. He left the event before its conclusion to attend another meeting. Earlier, Saifuddin Nasution said the country is still behind despite embracing artificial intelligence (AI). 'Today, we embrace AI, but we are still three years behind. 'But if we don't start now, we will be 30 years behind,' he said in his opening speech. The minister urged the department to send officers for AI training at local universities. 'Send personnel to local public universities such as UKM and UiTM in batches. 'Give them the opportunity to attend one- to two-week courses to gain knowledge of AI and develop the skills needed to use AI tools, which are evolving rapidly day by day.' Saifuddin Nasution also urged the Immigration Department to increase its commitment to combating graft within its ranks. 'With reforms anchored on efficient governance, strengthened integrity and impactful service delivery, I hope the department will uphold a zero-tolerance policy against corruption,' he said.
