Strait of Hormuz Flashpoint: The US reinstated its naval blockade on Iran and floated a 20% fee for “safe passage,” as Iran and the US traded fresh strikes and Iran’s parliament moved to draft a Strait of Hormuz security bill—while oil prices jumped to four-week highs, raising fears for global energy and travel costs. Regional Fallout for Gulf Travel: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE and Jordan reported renewed air defence activations after Iran’s attacks, and the UK updated travel advice for the UAE warning hostilities could resume quickly. Maritime Safety Hits Oman Waters: Iranian missile/drone attacks targeted tankers in the Strait, including incidents reported in Omani territorial waters, with casualties including an Indian sailor—prompting India to summon Iranian diplomats. Oman Tourism & Business Moves: Oman’s interior design and fit-out sector gets a boost with IDFOman returning to Muscat (Jan 12–14, 2027), while Salalah’s Greater Salalah Structure Plan outlines a RO 4.3bn investment programme to 2040. Travel Support for Oman Residents: BankDhofar launched a summer short-term loan campaign aimed at funding personal and travel spending. Oman Travel Convenience: India’s e-OCI digital card rollout (from 30 June 2026) is now available for travellers, including those in Oman.