Oman launches cultural visa for artists and creatives with one, five and ten year options – all you need to know

Oman unveils a new cultural visa offering 1-, 5-, and 10-year options, opening doors for artists, researchers, and creatives to live, work, and collaborate in the Sultanate.

Oman has officially opened its doors wider to the global creative community with the launch of its new Cultural Visa, announced on November 10, 2025. Available in one-year, five-year, and ten-year options, this visa is part of Oman Vision 2040, a national strategy focused on innovation, knowledge-sharing, and cultural development. Unlike the flashy mega-projects seen elsewhere in the Gulf, Oman’s approach is distinctly people-centric, offering a grounded and practical framework that nurtures real cultural exchange.

For Indian artists, filmmakers, researchers, designers, and digital creators — many of whom face rising costs in Western hubs and complicated visa processes — this move creates an affordable, accessible, and culturally familiar base just a short flight away.

Why Oman Introduced the Cultural Visa

The new visa category provides a dedicated legal pathway for foreigners engaging in cultural, artistic, heritage, or academic activities. It also reduces dependence on unrelated visa categories and strengthens Oman's push to become a regional cultural hub.

The initiative aims to:

• Promote cultural exchange.
• Attract global experts and creators.
• Support Oman’s institutions in hosting international talent.
• Build a more open, globally connected knowledge society.

Oman’s cultural visa is designed for individuals involved in:

• Temporary cultural residency.
• Artistic training or creative research.
• Academic collaborations in culture, arts, or heritage.
• Participation in literary festivals, art exhibitions, or cultural events.
• Organising workshops, performances, conferences or cultural programmes.

Family Inclusion: A Major Advantage

A standout feature is the Cultural Joining Visa, allowing spouses and first-degree relatives to accompany the main visa holder. This makes relocation easier for those working on long-term cultural or academic projects.

Visa Duration & Fees

Oman’s new cultural visa comes with three flexible duration options — one year, five years, and ten years — giving creators the freedom to choose what suits their work and long-term plans. Each option is priced at a flat rate of 50 Omani Rials per year (approximately Rs 11,500 annually), making it far more affordable than long-term creative visas in many other countries.

The visa must be activated within three months of issuance, ensuring clarity and timely entry for applicants. This accessible pricing structure opens the door not just for established artists, but also for emerging and mid-career creators who often face financial barriers when seeking international opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be sponsored by an accredited Omani institution such as:

• Ministry of Culture, Sports & Youth.
• Universities and academic institutions.
• Cultural centres.
• Event organisers.

Why This Visa Stands Out Globally

Unlike other Gulf nations that prioritise investors or high-income professionals, Oman recognises cultural contribution as an economic and social asset. It also avoids the rigid income thresholds and bureaucracy seen in Western creative visas.

Oman’s model focuses on:

• Purpose.
• Cultural relevance.
• Sponsorship legitimacy.

Why This Matters for Indian Creatives

India is among the world’s largest contributors to the creative economy — from cinema and music to literature and digital arts. Oman’s new visa creates:

• A stable, nearby base.
• Lower living costs compared to Europe or the UAE.
• Direct flight connectivity.
• Cultural familiarity due to historic India–Oman ties.

Life in Oman: What Travellers & Creatives Can Expect

Life in Oman is comfortable, safe, and surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to major global creative hubs. The cost of living is reasonable, making it an attractive base for artists, researchers, and digital creators seeking long-term stability without financial strain.

The country is known for its peaceful cities and warm hospitality, offering a welcoming environment for international residents. Oman’s natural beauty adds to its appeal — from golden deserts and rugged mountains to pristine coastlines, the landscapes offer endless inspiration for photographers, filmmakers, and outdoor-loving creatives.

Oman’s cultural ecosystem is also evolving quickly. A growing network of festivals, art institutions, galleries, and cultural programmes provides avenues for collaboration and exposure. English is widely spoken, making everyday life and professional interactions seamless for foreigners.

Overall, travellers and creatives can expect a harmonious balance of affordability, safety, natural beauty, and cultural opportunity — all within a community that embraces global talent.

A Promising New Chapter for Global Creatives

Oman’s Cultural Visa marks a significant step in positioning the country as a regional hub for creativity, research, and cultural dialogue. By offering long-term flexibility, family inclusion, and accessible fees, the visa opens the door for global and Indian creatives to build meaningful, sustainable connections with Oman’s evolving cultural ecosystem.