1. Police arrest over 50 infiltrators, thwart smuggling operations in Oman

“Coast Guard Police in Dhofar Governorate were able to thwart four smuggling attempts, during which 51 infiltrators and five smugglers were arrested in possession of large quantities of tobacco. The legal procedures were completed against them,” ROP said in a statement.

2. Medical test fees for expat visas slashed, no stamping of certificates needed

In a major concession for expatriates, the Minister of Health has ordered to waive off some examination fees for tests at private health institutions for the purpose of obtaining residency permits in the Sultanate of Oman from November 1, 2022. As per the new amendments, a request for examination of expatriates must be submitted through Sanad offices after payment of a fee of OMR30. Thereafter, the expatriate will be directed to undergo necessary medical examinations at private medical examination centres without paying any fees. The examinations will be approved by the Ministry of Health electronically, and delivered to the expatriate within 24 hours.