Short-term visitors from Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will not need visas to enter Britain from next year, interior minister Theresa May announced on Monday.

“Britain is open for business and genuine visitors and tourists coming here to enjoy our world class attractions, study or do business are always welcome,” she said in a written statement to parliament.

Under the new system, visitors from the three Gulf countries will need to obtain the free electronic visa waiver at least 48 hours before travelling.

Britain has received a 29 per cent rise in business and tourist visas from the Middle East in the last year, the Home Office said.—AFP.