22 — Festival Visa (Exhibition and Events)

The Festival Visa (Type 22) is a dedicated entry permit issued by the Royal Oman Police to enable foreign participants to attend and contribute to festivals, exhibitions, and major events within the Sultanate. Established as part of the regulatory framework for temporary work and event participation, this visa ensures that international contributors—such as exhibitors, speakers, or performers—can legally enter Oman for specific, approved events. It fills a gap by providing a streamlined, event-specific pathway that distinguishes short-term festival participation from standard employment or tourism, ensuring proper oversight of event-related activities.

This visa is designed for participants in festivals, trade exhibitions, and cultural events that have received official approval from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion or other relevant cultural bodies. The ideal applicant is an exhibitor, event professional, or performer invited by an approved Omani entity. It is distinctive because it requires sponsorship from a local entity that is officially recognized by the government to host such events, ensuring that the applicant's presence is tied directly to a sanctioned cultural or commercial initiative.