Filipino travelers heading to Oman faced sudden disruptions at airports over unclear entry requirements. The Philippine government is pressing Oman to remove a rule requiring negative HIV test results for certain Filipino tourists.
Reports showed passengers were denied boarding after airlines required certificates that were not formally communicated. Officials are now moving to address the issue as discussions between both countries proceed this week.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, raised the issue with the Oman Embassy in Manila and called for the removal of the requirement. Officials said the policy was implemented without formal notice to the Philippine government. As a result, travelers encountered inconsistent requirements during check-in.
The Oman Embassy clarified that the HIV certificate applies only to Filipino tourists using visa-free entry. Filipino workers holding employment visas are not covered by the requirement.
However, reports from the Philippine Embassy in Muscat confirmed that some passengers were still blocked from boarding flights.
“The DFA expects a positive outcome given the good and strong relationship between the Philippines and Oman,” Department of Foreign Affairs, in a statement referring to ongoing discussions as Omani authorities review the requirement.
Omani authorities said the requirement is currently under serious review. Both sides are set to discuss the matter further as part of ongoing coordination.
Earlier advisories urged Filipino travelers to coordinate directly with airlines for updated requirements.
