Omanis opting for India as medical tourism destination

DUBAI: India is fast becoming a favourite destination for Omanis seeking advanced medicare, with the number of visas being issued by India witnessing a significant rise.

The number of visas issued to Omanis from January 1 to August this year has jumped to 61,000 which was only 3,400 in 2012, according to an official from Indian embassy in Muscat, the capital of Oman.

"Number of visas in a day varies as at times, it touches 600 and manier times, we have even issued 350 visas", official was quoted as saying by the Times of Oman.

Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra and New Delhi are the top five destinations where Omanis visit for medical treatment.

"Out of the lot, tourist visas top the numbers, followed by medical and business visas ," the official said.

Factors like proximity, direct air connectivity, and cultural connect have helped establish India as a preferred destination for patients from the region.

India has emerged as one of the most sought after destinations for medical tourists across the globe owing to its high value proposition in terms of quality health care.