Hong Kong gets visa-free access to the UAE, and Oman relaxes entry restrictions

Hong Kong passport holders would begin to enjoy the benefit of visa free entry to United Arab Emirates from today and an increase visa entry period to Oman as the city signed 59 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and agreements with Qatar and Kuwait during the chief executive’s four-day trip to promote bilateral trade amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

John Lee Ka-chiu, who led a 50-abled delegation of business leaders and entrepreneurs from Hong Kong and mainland China, said on Wednesday that the financial hub was also looking to sign a free-trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

He announced that Hong Kong passport holders would be able to benefit from visa-free entry to the United Arab Emirates from Thursday. The visa-free period for those entering Oman will be extended from 10 to 14 days, also starting from that date.

Lee added that he was seeking visa-free arrangements and direct flights between Hong Kong and Kuwait, as Hongkongers still need a visa to enter Kuwait.

Additionally, Qatari authorities have scrapped on-arrival visa requirements for Hong Kong passport holders and offered visa-free entry for stays of 30 days or less, a decision that was also unveiled earlier in Lee’s visit.

“It is a fruitful trip,” Lee said on Wednesday, the last day of the tour. He also thanked the leaders of Qatar and Kuwait for their hospitality and friendship.

“We have strengthened ties with the two governments and built a strong consensus for more cooperation in the future,” he said.