Despite the success, Oman-Saudi potential is yet to be explored

With 400,000 people having used the Saudi-Oman Road, officials say the potential of this unique highway project is still untapped or unexplored.

According to Said bin Hamoud al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, "As of September this year, nearly half a million tonnes of goods and over 400,000 passengers have used the new direct road between two countries. We expect this number to double and triple in the next five years easily because currently, the movement on this road does have much transit or third-party traffic."

Saleh bin Nasser al Jasser, the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics, said the performance of the newly opened road has been strong, especially the convenience it offers to Haj and Umrah pilgrims and tourism and businesses from both sides.

It may be noted that the Sultanate of Oman is also studying the need for a dual carriage from the checkpoint to the Wilayat of Ibri as per the traffic density.

Recently, Ahmed al Khateeb, Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia, issued a decision to make it easier, and more accessible to visit Saudi Arabia.

The new regulations provide GCC residents the option to apply for an eVisa through the online portal and allow residents of the UK, US, and the EU to apply for a Visa on Arrival.

At the same time, Omani citizens can visit Saudi Arabia with their ID cards.

@vinot_nair