khasab road trip

32 Best Stops Between Dubai and Khasab

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How long is the drive from Dubai to Khasab?

The direct drive from Dubai to Khasab is 117 mi (188 km) , and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 5 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Dubai to Khasab, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah , as well as top places to visit like The Sevens Stadium and Dubai Outlet Mall, or the ever-popular Dubai Miracle Garden.

Top cities between Dubai and Khasab

Ras Al-Khaimah

Best stops along dubai to khasab drive, dubai miracle garden.

The Sevens Stadium

Dubai Outlet Mall

Jumeirah mosque.

Dubai Spice Souk

Coins museum bur dubai, sheikh mohammed bin rashid al maktoum centre for cultural and social understanding (head office), dubai creek.

ibis Styles Dragon Mart Dubai

Ajman beach, ajman museum, city centre ajman, natural history museum, arabia's wildlife centre, mleiha archaeological centre, old bazar umm al quwain, dreamland aqua park, friday market, al hamra mall, ice land water park, khatt springs rd, khor fakkan beach, national museum of ras al khaimah, al bidya mosque, nomad ocean adventures, sheesa beach dhow cruises- dive & discover, khasab castle.

Other popular road trips from Dubai

Explore nearby places.

• Dibba Al Bay Ah
• Dibba Al Hisn
• Dibba Al Fujairah
• Al Jazirat Al Hamra
• Ras Al Khaimah
• Khor Fakkan
• Umm Al Quwain
• Bandar Abbas
• Bandar-e Lengeh

All related maps of Khasab

• Map of Khasab
• Map of Bukha
• Map of Ghalilah
• Map of Zighy Bay
• Map of Dibba Al Bay Ah
• Map of Dibba Al Hisn
• Map of Dibba Al Fujairah
• Map of Al Jazirat Al Hamra
• Map of Ras Al Khaimah
• Map of Al Aqah
• Map of Al Badiyah
• Map of Khorfakkan
• Map of Khor Fakkan
• Map of Masafi
• Map of Umm Al Quwain
• Map of Kalba
• Map of Ajman
• Map of Bandar Abbas
• Map of Fujairah
• Map of Mileiha
• Map of Sharjah
• Map of Dubai
• Map of Bandar-e Lengeh
• Map of Hatta
• Map of Jebel Ali
• Map of Mahdah
• Map of Ghantoot
• Map of Sohar
• Map of Al Ain
• Map of Buraimi
• Map of Fadami

Khasab throughout the year

• Khasab in January
• Khasab in February
• Khasab in March
• Khasab in April
• Khasab in May
• Khasab in June
• Khasab in July
• Khasab in August
• Khasab in September
• Khasab in October
• Khasab in November
• Khasab in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Khasab?

Get inspired for your trip to Khasab with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Khasab Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from dubai to khasab.

Yes! You can drive from Dubai to Khasab.

How far is Khasab from Dubai by car?

The drive from Dubai to Khasab is 117 miles (188 km).

How long does it take to drive from Dubai to Khasab?

Driving from Dubai to Khasab should take you 3 hrs 5 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Dubai to Khasab?

Gas from Dubai to Khasab would cost around $10 to $24 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Dubai to Khasab?

You could check out The Sevens Stadium and Dubai Outlet Mall, or the always popular Dubai Miracle Garden!

What are the best cities to visit between Dubai and Khasab?

People love visiting Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, among others.

What's the weather like in Dubai?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Dubai in January
• Weather in Dubai in February
• Weather in Dubai in March
• Weather in Dubai in April
• Weather in Dubai in May
• Weather in Dubai in June
• Weather in Dubai in July
• Weather in Dubai in August
• Weather in Dubai in September
• Weather in Dubai in October
• Weather in Dubai in November
• Weather in Dubai in December

What are some other road trips from Dubai?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Dubai.

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi drive
• Dubai to Doha drive
• Dubai to Muscat drive
• Dubai to Jerusalem drive
• Dubai to Al Ain drive
• Dubai to Tel Aviv drive
• Dubai to Sharm El Sheikh drive
• Dubai to Petra - Wadi Musa drive
• Dubai to Manama drive
• Dubai to Nizwa drive
• Dubai to Riyadh drive
• Dubai to Khasab drive
• Dubai to Fujairah drive
• Dubai to Tehran drive
• Dubai to Kuwait City drive
• Dubai to Beirut drive
• Dubai to Eilat drive
• Dubai to Amman drive
• Dubai to Isfahan drive
• Dubai to Shiraz drive
• Dubai to Haifa drive
• Dubai to Jeddah drive
• Dubai to Salalah drive
• Dubai to Medina drive
• Dubai to Mecca drive
• Dubai to Yazd drive
• Dubai to Tiberias drive
• Dubai to Wadi Rum drive
• Dubai to Jaffa drive
• Dubai to Sanliurfa drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

The UAE/Oman Road Trip: Khasab, Musandam Oman

by Calvin Sun | Jun 23, 2019 | Getting that VISA , How Did You Do That? , June 2019: Unknown UAE , Khasab , Oman , Rules Are Meant To Be Broken , Summer 2019: Unknown UAE, Afghanistan, Rwanda, & Uganda , United Arab Emirates , Way Way Off the Beaten Path , Weekend Trips , What Dreams May Come | 1 comment

After 3 days road trippin’ around the UAE and visiting all 7 Emirates and Omani/Emirati counter-enclaves , it’s finally to the literal end of the road to Khasab :   the main city in an exclave called Musandam Oman and can be considered Oman’s “Alaska”. It’s also called the “Norway of Arabia” due to its topography of desolate mountainscapes and fjord-like inlets.

If you’re planning to do the drive yourself, make sure you have a NOC (No Objection Certificate) that the car rental shop will give to you when you tell them you’re making a drive to Musandam Oman. Evan was able to thankfully arrange all this when he arrived into Dubai 2am the night before.

Giving Evan only 4 hours of sleep, we all woke up early at 7am to begin our day. Ambrose also happened to befriend a Persian girl named Samira last night after I asked him to do my laundry downstairs, so we all had breakfast together at the hotel before beginning our drive at 8:30am.

We first drove up an hour and half up past RAK city to the UAE/Musandam Oman border, reaching there at around 10am.

First you have to enter the offices there and formally exit the UAE, paying the 30 AED exit fee first along with your passports, NOC, and car registration papers.

They then give you a pink slip to show to the border guards as you drive into No Man’s Land.

Then when you reach the Oman border, you have to enter the offices there to get a visa on arrival stamp at the border for 5 Omani Rials. There’s an ATM inside in case you need it.

They also hand you another slip to show the border guards that you’re good to enter Oman.

Once you’re past this border, you need to quickly clear customs.

Then it’s another 45 minute drive down gorgeous curvy seaside cliffs to reach Khasab .

All in all, it took us about 3  hours in total to drive from Dubai to Khasab.

Once there we first stopped by the Central Sultan Qaboos Mosque , which holds 1900 people. We were not allowed inside.

Then we drove up to Alkmazrh Fort   (or Khmazera Castle ), located inside the city that still belongs to a local tribe; it currently is taken care by the tribes’ younger generation who remain proud of their ancestral possession. It was free to enter for us.

We then drove 3 minutes uptown and paid 0.50 Rials to check out the slightly larger Khasab Castle for 10 minutes: Built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, this castle once housed the Wali and his family, then prisoners, before being converted and restored into a regional museum.

The view from the top:

Then we drove up 2 minutes more uptown to scarf down a fantastic 10 Rial seafood lunch complete with fresh fish at  Amjad Restaurant :

We then finished our drive at Khasab Dhow Port for the ferry-boats to Muscat. Here you can hop on a full day 6-8 hour or half-day 3 hour dhow boat ride (Or take one all the way to Muscat!).

On a side note, if you’re lucky you can find Iranian Smugglers  here where everyday hundreds of small jet boats carrying supplies cross the Strait of Hormuz heading to Southern Iran. The former brings over goats and sheep for the UAE, and then carry back televisions, cigarettes, and other goods to avoid Iranian import duties. B ecause Khasab is a free trade port Oman tolerates all this.

They must avoid not only shipping traffic but also the Iranian Coast Guard who have no reservations of shooting them on sight.

Since smuggling wasn’t on our minds, we were able to arrange a 3 hour boat ride at 1pm at the last minute for 100 AED (you can bargain it down) per person thanks to a contact provided by Sean the night before.

Dolphins chased down our dhow about 20 minutes into our ride!

About an hour in, they’ll take you to a freshwater area deep in the Strait of Hormuz where you can jump in for a swim and snorkel off the coast of Oman (or Iran, depending on how you look at it). A US drone was just shot down here 3 days ago , but we saw nothing of it: No warships, no media, no helicopters, and no military activity. Just a bunch of American tourists going for a dive.

Then it was simple relaxation for the rest of the journey where you can just take in all the views as they serve you unlimited fruit, tea, water and coffee onboard.

Just lounge away:

After our dhow cruise docked back in Khasab  at 4:30pm , we began our drive back to the UAE:

Once returning to Dubai by 7:30pm, we freshened up at our hotel and rendezvous’ed with Sean, his girlfriend Chelsea (who also has been living in the UAE for the past 9 years), as well as inviting Samira out for a final night out together by the Dubai Fountain and facing the  Burj al Khalifa .

After a wonderful meal complete with shisha and drinks, we finally said our goodbyes, with Wendy running to catch her 1am flight back home, and Sean and Chelsea having to go to sleep early for their classes tomorrow morning.

The 5 of us left then headed to Dubai Mall for the obligatory visit to the world’s largest fish tank and one of the largest aquariums in the world:

Then Samira and the gang had one more round of drinks and shisha at Garage Café before we all finally turned in at 1am. In a few hours: Kabul, Afghanistan!

- At time of posting in Khasab , it was 40 °C - Humidity: 28% | Wind Speed: 15km/hr | Cloud Cover: so so hot

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DUBAI TO MUSANDAM KHASAB GUIDE & VISA REQUIREMENTS

Khasab is the capital of Musandam peninsula, Oman surrounded by more than 2000 meters high mountains above sea level and bordering the UAE. It has a great attraction for tourists that want to explore the beauty of Musandam fjords, Hajar Mountains, turquoise water and dolphins, the most amazing creature on the planet and this is a reason why thousands of expats visit this calm and amazing island.  You will be wondered with the sea beauty that starts from the Khasab coastal highway accompanying from UAE.

Khasab Musandam Visa Requirements On Border.

Here are the things you need to check before you plan a Dubai to Musandam travel.

Covid Vaccine: All participants above 18 years must have vaccination certificate with QR Code in printed form to present on border otherwise will not be allowed.

Covid PCR: PCR is valid for 72 hours from the time of sample to enter Oman and all the participants elder than 12 years must present printed negative PCR on border.

Getting On Arrival Visa: Before leaving Dubai make sure you are eligible for on arrival visa. Some professions and nationalities are not allowed to get on arrival visa. Please speak to our representative before leaving Dubai. Please feel free to call or Whatsapp us at +968 9856 7886.

Nationalities Eligible For On Arrival Visa: All GCC nationals, Australia, Andorra, Austria, Brunei,  Bulgaria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, China, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay Portugal, Poland, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Slovenia, Slovakia,  Switzerland, United Kingdom, USA, Vatican and Russia. If you are not national of these counties, please contact us so we can check your visa eligibility.

UAE Residents With Work Visa: All professions are not eligible for on arrival visa at border so make sure you check your on arrival visa eligibility before leaving for border.

Oman Single Entry Visit Visa Cost: Oman visit visa is 05 OMR and UAE exit fee is 35 AED each passport that need to paid at border. Oman visit visa can also be obtained on arrival from border or  applied online at Oman E-visa website.   https://evisa.rop.gov.om .

Passport & Visa Validity: If you have UAE work visa make sure your passport and Visa is not expiring in next 90 days from your tour date. Minimum 90 days passport validity from tour date is required for tourists as well.

UAE Single Entry Visa: Single entry visa holders are not allowed to get visa on arrival from border as their their UAE visa will be canceled when exiting UAE.

Sponsored Visa: If you have a sponsored (dependent) visa, then the sponsor must be traveling with your otherwise you will not be allowed to cross border.

Vehicle Insurance: If you are coming by your own car, make sure you have car ownership card (Mulkia) and your car insurance is covered for Oman. If it is not covered for Oman you can buy temporary insurance from border that is around 100 AED but cost may vary depending on the type of vehicle.

NOC For Rented Cars: If you have a rented car then make sure you get the NOC (No Objection Certificate) to cross the borders. If you don’t have NOC, will not be allowed to cross the border. All the car rental companies do not provide NOC to cross border so ask them before renting a car that you will need to cross borders and only book with the company that give NOC.

Travel Time: 3.5 Hours: It takes normally 3.5 hours from Dubai to Khasab including the border processing time. Make sure you leave enough early to reach the give location to catch the Dhow. If it is the special event like UAE holiday make sure to leave early as the border will be crowded.

UAE-Oman Border:

You should driver to Ras Al Khaimah and then head toward the Al Dhara UAE border where you will get UAE exit stamp and pay fee. Then you should head toward Oman border and get Oman visit visa by paying 05 OMR per passport. The UAE and Oman fees need to be paid by credit or debit card.

Khasab Musandam Oman:

After finishing the visa process at follow the coastal highway and driver up to Khasab Musandam Oman. It will take around 45 minutes from border to Khasab Musandam and you will pass by Bukha and drive through the mountains to Khasab Musandam.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN KHASAB MUSANDAM OMAN

Khasab is the capital of Musandam peninsula, Oman surrounded by more than 2000 meters high mountains above sea level and bordering the UAE. It has a great attraction for tourists that want to explore the beauty of Musandam fjords, Hajar Mountains, turquoise water and dolphins, the most amazing creature on the planet and this is a reason why thousands of expats visit this calm and amazing island.  You will be wondered with the sea beauty that starts from the Khasab coastal highway accompanying from UAE. Here is the list of top things to do in Khasab Musandam Oman.

• Full-Day Dhow Cruise
• Half-Day Dhow Cruise
• Overnight Dhow Cruise
• Mountain Trekking 
• Overnight Beach Camping

You are a fun lover or a silent rest seeker, Khasab Musandam has much more to offer you. You can get on a traditionally decorated Omani dhow with your friends and family or can  rest on a remote beach or even can opt for spending a romantic night on dhow under the moonlight with your loved one. Khasab is the ultimate destination for your next Musandam trip.

• Full Day Cruise
• Half Day Cruise
• Beach Camping
• Overnight Cruise

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How to Reach Khasab From Dubai By Road [Guide 2020]

Mar 10, 2020 | Uncategorized |

KHASAB FROM DUBAI

The tour of Khasab from Dubai is very delightful and full of adventurous, Sultan of Oman worked admirably by permitting UAE residents and travelers to visit this heaven of the oceans in a day.

Oman and UAE both working to make the Khasab trip from Dubai straight and bother free. This fabulous city has a few activities. The most proper and charming approach to investigate this concealed magnificence of the Middle East to book a dhow Khasab visits and ocean visit from Dubai.

KHASAB ROAD TRIP FROM DUBAI:

The Khasab road trip from Dubai is quite clear – you take the Emirates Street towards Ras Al Khaimah . The course you will be following is Dubai – Sharjah – Ras Al Khaimah. At Ras Al Khaimah, drive on to the Cement Factory Street which has street signs that direct you to Oman.

Another best way to go to Khasab from Dubai is to book a tour . This is perhaps the most ideal approach to visit the wonderful Omani gems if you need to have a problem-free gateway. This is because a large portion of the visit administrators likewise assist you out with the Oman visa process on the off chance that you are not eligible for a visa on appearance.

KHASAB DAY TRIP:

In the Khasab day trip from Dubai, there are 3 hours of driving through Ras Al Khaimah to Khasab, along the all-encompassing coastal road. You will be met on the two borders. Entire day Dhow cruises to the awesome.

In the early afternoon, you will be tied down at Telegraph Island , which is the renowned area where the British laid a submerged link in 1864 from India to Basra, for forwarding correspondence to London.

Khasab day trip also includes lunch and unlimited refreshments (tea, espresso, soda pops, and mineral water) are served ready; there is likewise a plausibility of seeing dolphins along the journey. You can see and capture the entire scenery and adventure trip when you on the way to Khasab from Dubai.

KHASAB BOOKING FROM DUBAI:

Khasab pulls in a large number of guests consistently for both business and pleasure. Many sites and offices offer khasab bookings from Dubai. There is no straight connection of khasab booking from Dubai.

Be that as it may, you can take the line 88 transport to Deira City Center Bus Station, go for the stroll to Dubai Diera Terminal, take the transport to Ras al Khaimah, at that point take the drive to Khasab.

On the other hand, you can take the Metro to Emirates, go for the stroll to Emirates Airlines Headquarters, take the line 24 transport to Al Nahda, The Sheffeild Private School, go for the stroll to Dubai Itilhad, take the transport to Ras al Khaimah, at that point take the drive to Khasab. In this way, you can book your ride or trip to khasab from Dubai.

OFFERING DAY KHASAB TOURS FROM DUBAI:

Find the astonishing Musandam peninsula on a traditional Arabian dhow cruise in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Oman. Ready yourself for the tour of Khasab from Dubai for the antiquated scenes of Musandam Dibba. Stop to swim, and enjoy an Oriental onboard buffet.

During a day tour from Khasab to Dubai. Enjoy the mountain and beachfront coastal views as you cross into Oman and head for Khasab on Musandam’s northern coast, known as the ‘Norway of Arabia.

During the khasab from Dubai trip, they also offering day activities in khasab tours from Dubai. These activities are listed below;

• Entire day of khasab from Dubai dhow cruise trip, with a local guide
• Enjoy a grand dhow cruise along Musandam’s coast, named the ‘Norway of Arabia’.
• Watch for dolphins and stop at Telegraph Island to swim and snorkel.
• Buffet lunch, unlimited soft drinks, and swimming equipments gave on board
• Round-trip with centrally conditioned transport along-with hotel pickup and drop-off

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

Oman road trip: tips + itineraries (complete guide)

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Let’s plan your Oman Road Trip so that you see all the beauty the Sultanate has to offer! Below is your step-by-step guide to start planning:

• when and where to go,
• renting the right car,
• creating your Oman itinerary,
• booking accommodations,
• what to wear,
• and getting ready to drive and travel. 

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

• Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
• Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
• Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
• Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

STEP 0 – ESSENTIALS to Plan your Oman road trip and itinerary

If your don’t want to read the entire article with all my tips and recommendations, here are the essential ones to keep in mind:

• Ease of travel Many amazing landscapes are very easy to reach so don’t worry ! No stress, keep planning
• 4WD Don’t overestimate your 4WD capacity – if you plan on going off road, driving on sand is really an art But know that many amazing places don’t require a 4WD (more details about which car to choose later in the article)
• Renting a car I normally advise to rent the car after or before visiting the capital city but a car is also very useful in Muscat , since the town is spread out. The car rental offer is not yet very large, so, if you want your choice of car, book early – you can compare prices and deals on my favorite platform Discovercars.com
• Period Don’t travel during Summer months, it is  way too hot to get out during the day in North Oman
• The case of Musandam I don’t recommend crossing the UAE on land to get to Musandam from Muscat. The journey is quite a pain. Ferries or planes are better options.

STEP 1 – Decide when – best time to visit Oman

The weather year in the Sultanate of Oman can be cut into 2 main seasons. Oman has a reliable climate that is warm all year long.

Winter Conditions – October to April

• This is the touristic season as temperature get into the 20°C
• Temperatures are cooler and way more bearable than in Summer
• It can rain, mostly in January and February but those are short showers
• February and March are the busiest months – but considering the size of the land and the tourism level, you won’t feel overwhelmed like Paris in Summer…

Summer Conditions – May to September

• It is not recommended to travel to North Oman during that period. Temperature can be unbearable above 40°C. You can’t really visit the country during the day. All you could enjoy is shopping at night
• The only area you can travel to in that period is Salalah. Thanks to the monsoon the area is great and cooler. Even the locals travel there to enjoy some relief. But you have to love humidity…
• These conditions mean cheep hotel prices.

Best time to see turtles in Oman

• Close to the town of Sur (2hours from Muscat), is a reserve for turtles to nest safely ( see article )
• Turtles come nesting on the Omani beaches all year around. So you have chances to see them every morning and evening. Although during low season there can be days without sightings. This photo was taken in December
• You get the highest number of turtles in the reserves between August and October during breeding season. This is when you are more likely to spot babies hatching and making their way to the water

Other things to consider when choosing the best time to travel to Oman

• Oman is a muslim country. So do not forget to check the dates of the Ramadan during which you will not find restaurant or places to eat during the day outside of International Hotels
• The Muscat Festival is held in February with cultural and musical events
• In April, roses bloom in Jebel Al Akhdar, making the landscapes even more special

STEP 2 – Where to go in Oman – Map

Destinations in oman map.

Below is a Map of Oman to get you oriented and help you decide where to go.

Introduction to the Omani regions

Muscat is the capital city of Oman. It combines tradition and modernity. One fourth of the Omanis live in this city which is spread out in several area between bays and mountains.

Places to visit in Muscat include:

• Magnificent modern architecture with the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House
• Traditional markets and Souqs
• Forts and Palace (from the outside) and Museums
• Long sandy beach

For more ideas, check my  complete list of things to do in Muscat .

SUR + EAST COASTAL AREA

Landscape-wise, this is one of the most diverse areas in Oman. You can enjoy it all: sand dunes, beaches, mountains, forts and wadis… Easily accessed South of Muscat, if you only have a few days in the country this is  the number 1 region I suggest you visit.

Things to do on the Eastern coast include:

• The town of Sur and the nearby turtle reserve
• The high sand dunes of the Wahiba Sands Deserts
• The many stunning wadis such as Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid
• Masirah island

NIZWA + INLAND

Called Hinterland, the area around Nizwa offers dry land in the valley but plenty of traditions. This is where the Imman used to live and contest the authority of the Sultan.

Places to visit in the Hinterland include:

• Majestic forts such as Nizwa, Bahla and Jabrin
• Ruins of old villages and Unesco listed Falaj irrigation systems
• The “green” mountainous area of Jebel Akdhar 
• Jebel Shams, the Arabian Grand Canyon

SOHAR + NORTHERN COAST

The coastal area North of Muscat is a narrow plain between the Al Hajar mountains and the sea. It is one of the most fertile areas in Oman. The region is also called Al Batinah.

Highlights in the Sohar region include:

• Beaches including some covered with shells 
• Fortifications including the famous Rustaq fort
• Fishing villages, farming area and palm tree plantations

MUSANDAM PENINSULA

The Musandam peninsula is probably the most famous land in the Sultanate of Oman. It is an area separated from mainland and close to Dubai, at the northern point of the Arab peninsula. This region is mountainous and surrounded by fjord-like khors with abrupt cliffs. 

Things to do in the Musandam Peninsula include:

• The main town Khasab and its fort
• 4WD adventure in the mountains with views of the bay, petroglyphs and old villages
• Dhow cruising (traditional boat), watching dolphins, snorkeling, and camping on one of the islands

SALALAH + DHOFAR

The Dhofar region is the South of Oman, close to the border with Yemen. It is home to the second largest city in Oman: Salalah. The Dhofar is quite different from the rest of the country as it is isolated in the South and subject to the monsoon in summer (June to September).

Things to do in Dhofar include:

• Desert adventure in the Empty Quarter desert
• Stunning beaches
• Mountainous areas and green gorges
• The famous Frankincense trees are grown here

Ad Wusta is an empty band in the middle of Oman. Most people only cross this area to get from the North to Salalah. On the west side is the grand desert of the Empty quarter. Highlights of Al Wusta include:

• Caves such as Al Raki
• The Arabian Oryx Reserve also known as the Wousta Wild Reserve

STEP 3 – How long to plan for your road trip around Oman 

The first criteria is, of course: How much travel time can you have… 

If you have no flexibility on how long you can travel in Oman, you can jump to the next step. If you have flexibility, here are a few driving distance to consider

• Muscat to Sur – 2h10
• Muscat to Nizwa – 1h35
• Muscat to Shannah port (for Masirah island) – 5h
• Muscat to Khasab flight time – 1h
• Muscat to Salalah – 10h drive without stopping or 1h30 by plane

From my experience and discussion with local tour guides, I think to really enjoy it you need at least:

• Muscat – 2 to 3 days (depending on your love for museums)
• East Coast and Sur – 3 to 5 days
• Nizwa and hinterland – 3 to 6 days
• Sohar and North Coast – 2 to 3 days
• Musandam Peninsula: 2 to 3 days
• Salalah and Dhofar region: 3 to 4 days

Of course it is always possible to dedicate a whole holiday to just one region. These are what I think a good number of days to grasp the areas and their variety.

STEP 4 – Book your flight

So now that you have chosen when to go,  where to go and for how long, you are ready to book your flight.

However, first, check the Visa requirement for your type of passport. Unless you are from a country that is part of the Gulf Cooperation council, there is at least a requirement for an eVisa. You can check your visa eligibility on the Royal Oman Police website here .

The international airport is near Muscat.  Domestic flights are run to Khasab in the Musandam peninsula and Salalah in the South.

Book your flight

Starting your Oman road trip in Dubai

I think it is easier to fly in Muscat and start the road trip from there. Flight lasts 1h. However if you want to go by car consider:

• Dubai to Mascate – 420km – 4h30 (when not stopping)
• Border crossing can be long
• Make sure your car rental allows you to also drive in Oman (with insurance coverage)

STEP 5 – Hire the right car

Now it is time to rent your car.

4WD car or normal car?

It depends on where you go. You need a 4WD if you want: 

• to go off road 
• to get to the mountains of Al Jabal Al Akhdar (but you can arrange to park at the entrance and have someone from the hotel pick you up – or to rent a 4WD or a day or 2 from the checkpoint)
• To get in  Wahiba Sands  (but you can also ask the camp to send someone to pick you up at the desert entrance)

Otherwise a 2WD car is sufficient. Even to get to Jebel Shams as it is paved almost all the way (still 7 km of dirt road towards the top but in good condition if it has not rained before). However note, that even if you rent a 4WD, the insurance conditions for most companies nowadays do not cover offroad driving… It gets complicated to be a little adventurous.  I am sorry I don’t have a solution for you here. This is your risk to evaluate.

Car rental in Oman

All the classic car rental companies are available in Oman. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when booking:

• R ENTAL COMPANIES –  When choosing the company, don’t just look at price but consider age of the fleet, included mileage, 24/7 customer service, servicing availability…Foreign driver’s license or international driving permit are accepted for up to three months
• INSURANCES – Check all types of insurance and decide on the level of risk you are ready to take. For peace of mind, I strongly recommend the Gravel Protection one.
• Get a GPS – there are many signs and not that many roads but some locations are not always on it. Plus inside Muscat it would allow you to focus on the traffic instead of the map.

Compare car rental prices on Discovercars.com – one of the best customer-rated comparison sites! Choose the car and company you prefer and consider their full coverage option – I always take it for peace of mind!  Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

Need to rent a car in Oman?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Renting a car in the UAE – Oman road trip from Dubai

You can also add Oman to a trip to the Emirates. You can travel from Dubai to Oman by road. It is an easy drive but not the most fascinating, when it takes only 1h by plane.

If you have rented your car in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and want to take a side trip to Oman, first make sure the rental agency allows it. Then take the extended insurance to cover your time in Oman. Proof of insurance will be requested at the Omani border.  

But apart from that, you can drive straight through the border showing your passport at both borders. Plan 5 hours to get to Muscat from Dubai.

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

STEP 6 – Create your Oman itinerary – 5 days, 1 week, 10 days…

Good to know when planning a road trip itinerary in oman.

When planning your itinerary don’t forget to consider the following essentials:

• DRIVING TIMES – Always plan more time to go from point A to point B than what Google says. You will want to stop to admire the scenery, so if you plan too much you will feel frustrated not to be able to
• DAYLIGHT HOURS – You will always have 10 to 13 hours of daylight so you can cover a lot 
• ROAD CLOSURES – Most roads are in excellent conditions. However after heavy stormy rain, mountain roads can be damaged. Be sure to ask for advice
• ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS – If you are booking yourself and not through a local agent, it is easier to find accommodation in the main towns via websites like Booking
• OPENING DAYS – Friday is the day to rest. Some attractions are closed or close early

Suggestion – 5 day itinerary out of Muscat

If you have only a few days, the book might be too much for you (although the GPS coordinates are still useful). So here is a suggestion for a 5 day itinerary around North Oman out of Muscat, with a good variety of landscapes.

• DAY 1  Drive to Sur – Bimmah Sinkhole + walk/swim in Wadi Shab + explore Sur Night in Sur (see accommodation options ) or choose to stay at the Turtle reserve for priority access to morning tour
• DAY 2  Early morning to see the turtles Drive to Wadi Bani Khalid Drive to Wahiba Sands Night in a desert camp in the desert – for example the Desert Night camp or the Arabian Oryx Camp   (both in the Al Wasil wadi of the desert)
• DAY 3 Sunrise in the desert Drive to Nizwa Explore the fort and the Souq Night in Nizwa – see accommodation options
• DAY 4 Get in the mountain – choose between Jebel Al Akhdar or Jebel Shams Stay at a resort at the top of those mountains – See the accommodations in Jebel al Akhdar (Al’Ayn) or the accommodation in Jebel Shams
• DAY 5 Drive towards the coast Visit the Rustaq fort Enjoy some beach time at Sawadi beach and collect shells Drive back to MuscatNight in Muscat – see accommodation options

Tool to plan your Oman road trip Itinerary 1 week, 10 days and more

If you are lucky enough to have more time, there is a wide choice of activities and places to see: mountains, coasts, wadis, desert, forts… I don’t know which one you prefer. So here are my tools to help you plan you own perfect itinerary:

• Go through my 40+ articles on Oman
• Get my eBook with practical maps and structured information that have been designed to simplify road trip planning:

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 190+ pre-selected locations
• Tips to make the most of your time
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• 100+ original photos to help you choose

STEP 7 – Book accommodations

About the accommodations in oman .

The options are as usual: camping, minivan/motorhome, hostels, guesthouses, hotels

A few points to keep in mind:

• During peak season, accommodations in desert camps and Turtle reserve fill up quickly so book in adcance
• Some rooms in Guesthouses have share bathrooms – I have seen many reviews by people who were surprised. So when you book, check the details!
• Camping is also a great option to save money, stay closer to nature. But know that it is cold at night in the mountains, so be mindful of how you are willing to travel. There are not camping ground in Oman at the moment but wild camping is allowed almost anywhere! Check out my Wild Camping in Oman article for more information and advice.
• You can find some Airbnb accommodations in the main cities. However the offer is not well developed.

Practical hubs to stay around Oman:

• CAPITAL – Muscat of course with lots of things to do See accommodations in Muscat
• INLAND – Nizwa is a great place to stay, centrally located See accommodations in Nizwa
• EAST COAST –  Sur is a beautiful town, more laid back than Muscat and with traditional boats ​ See accommodations in Sur
• MUSANDAM –  Accommodations are mostly in Khasab and on the coast near Khasab See options
• SOUTH –  Salalah is very centrally located to explore the region ​ See accommodation options
• TRADITIONAL VILLAGE –  A great place to spend the night away from the busy city is the stunning traditional village of Misfat al Abryeen and the Misfah old House
• DESERT – To stay in the desert, I have seen both camp in the Al Wasil wadi: Desert Night camp and  Arabian Oryx Camp
• MOUNTAINS – It is also nice to spend the day up in the mountains to enjoy sunrise and sunset there – See the accommodations in Jebel al Akhdar  (Al’Ayn) or  the accommodation in Jebel Shams
• However you can of course find accommodations in between.

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

• Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
• Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
• Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
• Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
• Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
• Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

CONGRATULATIONS!!! Now all is bookedIt is time to get Ready for this Omani Road Trip

STEP 8 – Get all the equipment you need – What to wear in Oman

Basis – what to wear in oman – dress code women and men.

• This is a Muslim country so you should be respectful and over shoulders and knees. No need for women to cover their hair though (except in Mosques). 
• It gets very hot near the coast and in the desert: long sleeve, trousers and hat are great to protect yourself from the sun – choose light fabrics
• During Winter nights in the mountains are freezing, you will need layers especially if camping

Oman Packing list – Essentials

• Hiking pants
• Comfortable shoes for the hiking
• Hat / something to protect your head (I love my Buff “head-sock” to protect myself from the sun and hold my hair)
• Sun glasses
• Tops covering the shoulders and some long sleeve T-shirt (white is great against the sun)
• Scarf to visit the Mosque (although you can normally buy/rent something there)
• Formal Dress if you plan on watching a show at the Royal Opera House
• Swim wear – Western style for International hotel pools – add a t-shirt and knee-length leggins or a swimwear covering more for public beaches and wadis (although touristic wadis tolerate western style)
• Gloves/hat and jumper for nights in the mountains

For all general packing lists, head to  my checklist article if you don’t want to forget anything.

And keep track of your own trip!

STEP 9 – Get ready to drive in Oman

Below is a video to give you an idea of what driving in Oman looks like:

Driving rules

• Driving is on the right side of the road
• Speed limits are enforced. There are many radars plus cars start beeping over 120 km/h. Speed limits are clearly indicated. However you will always have locals overtaking you at high speed. Just let them go and enjoy the scenery.
• Be respectful in any case, to not make any gesture even if the other driver is behaving dangerously
• Do not drink – Zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol
• Do not use your cell phone while driving – on-the-spot fines apply (but like everywhere people still do it…)

Roads and Traffic signs in Oman

• Roads are modern and in really good conditions between main cities
• Streets are paved and in reasonably good conditions in cities
• Signs are also in Latin alphabet

• Animals – In small town and in single lane roads and even sometimes on bigger road you can have camel or goats crossing unexpectedly. So keep focussed!
• Wadi crossing – You will often see red signs. This is were the road is over a wadi or dry river bed. Most of the time there is no problem, but in case of heavy rain, use the red pole to evaluate the depth of water.
• Straight lines – The main danger and cause for the high number of fatalities in Oman are the straight road. Especially if your drive South to the desert. Make sure you plan plenty of stops and always have water and food in the car.

Check out my full article on Driving in Oman

STEP 10 – Fill your GPS with the coordinates

What I hate the most when traveling is wasting time. Turning around to find a place, missing an exit. Sometimes it leads to adventure, but most of the time it just leads to frustration.

This is why I don’t rent a GPS with the car. I have my own Tom Tom. This way I can use the MyDrive system on my computer to add all the hotel GPS coordinates as well as the carpark coordinates for all the attractions I would like to see.

This way I just pick the favorite and follow the directions!!!

NOTE – All the locations in my eBooks include the GPS coordinates of the nearest carpark, exactly for that reason.

Get it on Amazon

STEP 11 – Get ready to travel in Oman

Communication.

Most people in Oman, especially in the tourism industry, speak English. But of course like in any country, it is always appreciated when you try a few words in their language

• Peace be onto you – As-salamu’alakum
• Answer to above – Wa’alaykum as-salam
• Alternative to the above – Salam
• Welcome – Marhaban
• Please – Raja’an
• Thank you (very much) – Shokran (jazeelan)
• Excuse me (to ask for) – Min fadlik
• Excuse me (to pass by) – Alma’derah!
• I am sorry – A’tadhir

Currency in Oman

The currency in Oman is the Omani real. 

What is different:

•  Their equivalent to ‘cents’ are Baisa and they are counted in 100 – For example a price can be 2.250 i.e. 2 rials and 250 baisas.
• Also the bill for 500 baisas is not written as such, it is written 1/2 Half Rial

• Tipping is not customary. You can tip after an excellent service.
• As in most countries, tour guides are different and would expect tips if you have not booked directly with them

Food in Oman – what to expect

I must admit that I was a bit disappointed by the food in Oman. From what I have seen it is a mix of influence from other countries: chinese, indian, turkish…

You always get a salad with cucumber / tomatoes / carrots. A lot of the simpler restaurants served their version of fast food with noddles, sandwiches… And they often served frozen vegetables. I guess they cannot grow much so this is a problem to get fresh vegetables…

The best food was fish, fresh out of the water.

• Most shops offer fruit juice mixes, sometimes with ice. 
• Sodas are also plentyful. 
• For alcohol you need to go inside and international hotel or get a license in Muscat which authorize you to buy alcohol.
• Currency – The currency in Oman is the Omani real. Their equivalent to ‘cents’ are Baisa and they are counted in 100 – For example a price can be 2.250 i.e. 2 rials and 250 baisas.
• Wifi – The resorts all had wifi. However sometimes only in the common area. Isolated guesthouses may have wifi but it would be restricted to certain hours.
• Plugs: Oman plugs are a type G 200V (whatever you read on other sites, I have only seen G plugs).
• Tipping is not customary. You can tip after an excellent service. As in most coutnries, tour guides are different and would expect tips if you have not booked directly with them
• No special vaccine required

Want to see more of Oman?

• Best Things to do in Oman – read article
• Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
• Best Oman days trips from Muscat –  read article
• Where to stay in Oman – read article
• Best Things to do in Muscat – read article
• The impressive Wadi Shab – read article
• The Bimmah Sinkhole – read article
• The desert of Wahiba Sands – read article
• The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserves – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Want to see more of OMAN?

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September 5, 2019 at 2:22 PM

Thank you for sharing the tips about food, currency and many things to visit Oman

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Musandam Dibba and Khasab Musandam – Best Offbeat Dubai to Oman Road Trip

Last Updated on May 16, 2024 by Admin

This article is about helping you plan your Musandam Dibba and Khasab Musandam trip. Musandam is one of the best offbeat destinations and the nearest road trip from Dubai to Oman.

About Musandam

Like the Fjords in Norway, Musandam is the Arabian Fjords. It is surrounded by the Arabian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Oman.

The location of Musandam is fascinating. Though it is a part of Oman, it is geographically separated from the mainland and is surrounded by the UAE Emirates – Ras Al-Khaimah and Fujairah. Musandam is a peninsula comprising high Hajar mountains and peaks.

A Road Trip from Dubai with serene mountain views

The two nearest road trips from Dubai to Oman are – to Dibba and Khasab. Dibba is about 168 km from Dubai and takes around 2 and a half hours. Khasab is about 198 km from Dubai and takes about 3.5 hours to reach. As you would be crossing the border from UAE to Oman, the border formalities may take up more of your time.

Be it Khasab or Dibba, the scenery of the mountains while driving through will soothe your mind. Musandam is popular for its dhow cruise, adventure activities, and mountain views.

Dibba town is situated on the border of the UAE and Oman. It spans across Fujairah and Sharjah (known as Dibba Al-Hisn) in the UAE, as well as a portion in Oman.

The drive through Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah is scenic, giving you a glimpse of the beauty of the northern UAE Emirates. The adventure starts once you reach the Dibba Harbor. Boarding the traditional Dhow Boat and sailing around the stunning rock formations on the clear waters – a must-have experience. Make sure you board the upper deck of the Dhow Boat for a better view.

Apart from Dhow Boats, visit the white caves (limestone caves), and don’t miss the adventures of banana boat rides, swimming, speedboat rides, fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling.

Two countries – one day, let go of the formalities and let us manage it while you enjoy it to your fullest – Book Your Trip to Dibba Musandam with 365 Adventures !

Khasab Tour

The capital of Musandam Governorate in Oman, Khasab town is located in the northernmost part of the country.

Unlike Dibba, in Khasab, a traditional dhow cruise trip will allow you to witness more dolphins jumping out of the turquoise water. An Arabic lunch, picturesque fjords, and the sight of dolphins – a perfect moment!

In the dhow cruise that starts from Khasab Fort sailing through the Strait of Hormuz, you will get to experience the sight of Seebi fishing village and the once-abandoned Telegraph Island.

Things to do in Khasab

While the dhow cruise is the main attraction of Khasab Musandam, the following activities are worth it too –

1. Hiking and Camping on Jebel Harim

Go Camping, followed by hiking to the highest peak in Musandam – Jebel Harim (2,087m). The view of the villages and the valleys from the top are beautiful.

A 4×4 rollercoaster ride through the rugged roads can also take you to the Hajar Mountains.

2. Swimming and Diving at Khasab’s Beaches.

Khasab’s golden beaches are perfect for water activities like swimming and diving, while also offering the chance to camp by the shoreline. When you snorkel in the clear waters, you will witness Musandam’s marine treasures, including perfect coral reefs and diverse sea life.

3. Bassa Beach Camping near Khasab

Bassa Beach is located just 2 km from the ferry terminal in Khasab. It offers shade, toilets, and a great spot for swimming.

Camping is allowed. After rough weather or storms, beautiful seashells often wash up on the shores. The kebab sellers set up their shops on weekends. Don’t miss trying the dish.

4. Visit the Khasab Castle

History enthusiasts can visit Khasab Castle. The Portuguese built it in the 17th century. It is now a museum showcasing Musandam’s history.

Book Your Khasab tour of Musandam from Dubai with us.

Musandam – Oman’s “Arabian Fjords,” are offbeat and can be visited within a day. This quick guide covers road trips from Dubai to Dibba or Khasab. Both offer picture-perfect scenery, dhow cruises, and water activities.

Dibba is nearer than Khasab. Both destinations offer Dhow Cruise on the turquoise waters, kayaking, snorkeling, speedboat riding, swimming, camping, and hiking. In Khasab, however, there is a higher chance of spotting a dolphin.

Two Unique Spots in Musandam – Dibba and Khasab, choose one or both; the experience will never disappoint you.

To know more about such fun-filled experiences, click here – adventures in Oman Or send us an email at [email protected] with your queries about the Dibba and Khasab tour in Musandam from UAE.

Joydeep is a travel and content writer based in Assam, India. Awarded by Meghalaya Tourism for travel writing, he runs “The Gypsy Chiring” travel blog about the lesser known treks, adventures, and culture of Northeast India. He believes in traveling and learning cultures from a local’s perspective.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

Musandam Road Trip – How To Visit Oman While In Dubai

Consider a road trip from Dubai to Musandam and explore one of the best peninsulas on earth. Musandam is a rough, hilly peninsula and a part of Oman. Despite its location in the UAE, this intriguing peninsula is still regarded as an Omani region because of its geographical exclave. A geographical exclave is a region separated from the mainland and surrounded by one or more foreign states. In this case, Musandam is surrounded by UAE states. Book a Musandam tour package while in Dubai for this amazing road trip.

Where Is Musandam?

How to reach musandam, the musandam peninsula, oman, a guide to border crossing into musandam, other information, share this:.

The tiny Omani enclave of Musandam sits on the northernmost point of the Arabian Peninsula and protrudes dramatically into the Strait of Hormuz. Between mainland Oman and Musandam Governorate (a small enclave of Madha sits within Fujairah) is the UAE.

The UAE, especially Dubai, has amazing road connections that make traveling across the country hassle-free. A Musandam Road trip is nothing short of enjoyable, considering the good roads. The drive to Musandam from Dubai is roughly 2 hours, and the route has stunning views. The dreamy highways and the slightly rugged path surrounded by mountains contribute to an enriching experience. Book an arranged tour that will cater to your needs, from pick up to drop off, and take you to sightseeing spots if you are not looking for a road trip.

A majority of travellers start their journey from Dubai to Dubai is our reference point. If you are starting your journey from Abu Dhabi Airport, it will take you an extra 1 to 1.5 hours to get to Musandam from downtown Abu Dhabi.

Dubai to Khasab, Oman, is about hours, but because it’s an international border crossing, it may take 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours. The journey may take even longer on popular holiday weekends.

Dubai to Dibba is shorter (145 km) and takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If you drive directly from Dubai, it will take about two hours to reach the border, depending on traffic. If you make stops for sightseeing, the trip could take you three to four hours, depending on how much time you take on your stops.

The time taken to cross the border depends on whether the immigration staff has closed for lunch or tea. You should cross from the UAE to Oman in minutes if you have your passports and some Omani currency and the staff is available at the time. Speed up the clearing process by getting an Omani e-visa in advance.

Once you have your entered Oman, Musandam can very well be the gateway to an epic Oman Road Trip Adventure, as mentioned in this 6 Day Oman Itinerary.

If you are going to Khasab, the west coast crossing into Musandam is through the Al Darah border post at the northern tip of Ras Al Khaimah emirate. This is exactly where the mountains start touching the ocean.

The crossing posts for UAE and Oman are adjacent to each other, making it a popular spot for tourists in Dubai and the UAE for ‘border runs’ as you only need to stop once and walk between the entry and exit offices. Border runs enable you to extend your 30-day tourist visa. Border cross will involve two stops in each direction; however, if you are not a GCC resident.

Places To Visit In Musandam

The Musandam Peninsula is naturally beautiful, with quite a few attractions you can’t miss out on during your Musandam Road trip.

Khasab, a small old town and the capital of the Musandam Peninsula, is an Omani exclave and geographically part of the UAE. The Khasab Fort is one of the predominant attractions in this town. The town is a charming cultural place, and apart from the fort, the Khasab Castle is also a famous attraction. You can visit the Oman Fjords and Bimmah Sink-hole if you are not in a hurry or if you are planning to spend a night on the peninsula. The road trip to Musandam is generally captivating.

By Joel Azcuna  – CC BY-SA 2.0

Dibba town crosses between the UAE and Oman. A part of the city is in Fujairah, partly in Sharjah (Dibba Al-Hisn), and a part of it in Oman.

This is not a full border crossing but only a small police station checkpoint. You need pre-arranged permission to access the border crossing at this point, either through your accommodation or tour provider.

Your visa will be taken care of 7 days before your visit if you book with the luxurious Six Senses Zighy Bay on the Dibba side of Musandam but over the border. The same treatment will be offered if you are staying at the Dibba Beach Hotel.

Some day trips to Dibba may depart from the UAE side and never set foot on land, bypassing the formality of a day trip border crossing.

• You can quickly go to Khasab in a typical saloon car thanks to the sealed roads that run all the way and the considerable reinforcing work being done to prevent the Cliffside drive from collapsing.
• You need a 4WD if you want to explore the interior, especially from the Dibba side.
• Never leave your passports behind. Despite the fairly seamless border connections, you need to keep in mind that you are in a different country.
• The official currency in Musandam is Omani Rial (OMR), but locals may accept dirhams as they get a slight upside in the exchange rate using 10AED:1OMR.

About The Author – Robeena Brown is a travel blogger & destination expert living in the UAE and works for local tourism companies like Arabiers. 

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Khasab Musandam Transfers from Dubai

Dubai to khasab bus and car.

The distance between Dubai and Khasab is approximately 200 kilometers. Traveling from Dubai to Khasab Musandam will take you around 3.5 hours while driving, or you can choose your tour provider to pick you up from a Dubai or UAE location. Khasab Sea Tours is a professional tourism company that not only provides pickup upon request but also provides well-informed guides who educate you about everything you need to know about the region. Khasab Sea Tours provides you with Dubai to Khasab transport services by bus and car upon request. Transport prices keep changing, be sure to inquire for your convenience. We offer private and shared transport services from Dubai to Musandam by car, Hiace bus, or bus. Our transport services offer a flexible, safe, and convenient way to travel. This Dubai to Khasab road trip is through the northern road towards Ras al Khaimah, heading north to the border. The road is in excellent condition.

• Our comfortable vehicles: Car 7 Seats, Hiace 14 Seats, Coaster 22 Seats, and Bus 50 Seats.
• Transfers from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman and Fujairah.
• Choose your pickup point.
• Khasab border transfers.
• Local transport services to explore city and mountains.

Dubai to Khasab Musandam by road

Khasab City is the Capital of the Musandam Peninsula between Iran, UAE, and the Sultanate of Oman on the Hormuz Strait Coast. Khasab has located about 197 km to the East of Dubai and the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road/E311 flows straight from Dubai to Khasab taking you through Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, and Sham. Stop at any city location on your way to take those beautiful sightseeing pictures. Dubai to Khasab Musandam approximate travel distance is 3 hours, so leave yourself about 3 hours for the road trip. Khasab is located right in the heart of the famous Musandam peninsula, which is one of the top tourist destinations in the Middle East. Khasab is the central location for most tourism companies in the region and most routes begin from there and take you anywhere you want to go with carefully designed Dubai to Khasab tour deals, covering most tourist destinations both on land and ones that require boat travel.

Dubai to Khasab transport services

Plan your personalized Dubai to Khasab Musandam tour now and be amazed by what we have to offer. You will get your holiday desires fulfilled with our Khasab tours from Dubai. Our Dhow Cruise Packages are also available for custom private events or occasions as well. Book with us for your birthday parties, anniversaries, or holiday packages now, and have a time you will remember for the rest of your life. We are available when you need us with our friendly customer support staff. Khasab Sea Tours offers you the most satisfying Musandam Peninsula exploration packages and a chance to visit the famous traditional culture of the region full of rich traditions and great landscapes. Relieve yourself from all the burdens of busy city life. Whether you are in Dubai or any other part of the UAE, transport with connections to all other UAE states and cities is a perfect option to avail our tour options. Do you love to camp, dhow cruise, land tour, or have an exciting overnight trip on the boat? Would you prefer to spend a day on our comfortable traditional dhow cruise, don’t miss out on our Musandam Khasab tour from Dubai .

Half Day Dhow Cruise

Full day dhow cruise, private dhow cruise, musandam overnight cruise, trip to kumzar village, mountain safari adventure, latest information on visa.

• Khasab borders are now open again for tourists from UAE.
• Khasab Oman Visa is available upon arrival at the border for both UAE residents and tourist visa holders.
• Vaccination & PCR test is not required for both UAE & Oman border. For more information visit Musandam Visa Guide Page .
• Tourists can apply for a visa online to visit the Sultanate of Oman. Kindly visit online e-Visa website https://evisa.rop.gov.om/en/home .
• Oman now offers visa-free entry to GCC residents​ & tourists.​ Carry your original 3 months valid passports.
• Oman Visa fee for UAE resident visa holders: 50 AED/Each + 35 AED/Each UAE exit fee.
• Resident visa and passport must be valid for at least 3 months. Carry your original passports and Emirate ID.
• Citizens & tourists allow with free visa: Australia, Andorra, Austria, Brunei, Bulgaria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, Poland, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Slovenia, Slovakia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, USA, Vatican.
• Personal Vehicles: your car needs Oman insurance to get in Khasab. In case you don’t have Oman insurance, temporary Oman car insurance is available at the Khasab border. Insurance charges 100 AED/Car.
• If you have a mortgage car take NOC from Bank and for rental car take NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Rental Company.

Previous Tour

Quick links.

• Khasab Coastal Road, PC No. 811, Khasab, Musandam, Sultanate of Oman
• 00968-92009440
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

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5 Stunningly Scenic UAE Road Trips to try

Are you ready to hit the road this winter and explore more of the United Arab Emirates? Getting behind the wheel is the best way to explore the UAE beyond the big cities.

Although not a huge country, once you leave the city, some quite diverse landscapes can be explored in the UAE. No need for a luxury supercar or a 4×4 to complete most of these road trips.

Set your Google Maps, and let’s drive!

If you are setting off in the hotter summer months, make sure you read this important guide to driving in the desert heat to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared.

Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah

Drive time from dubai 2 hours (abu dhabi 3 hours).

Don’t be mistaken into thinking Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is just for your adventure seekers. Whilst yes, it’s famously home to the world’s longest zip line, incredible Via Ferrata and the Jais Sky Maze, the windy mountainous drive also rewards you with some stunning panoramic views.

The paved road has been extended all the way to the peak now and has a new viewing platform at the 1,934m summit of the UAE’s tallest peak.

Temperatures on Jebel Jais can be as much as 10c cooler than on the coast, making it an inviting summer driving option – and conversely, in winter, you may even get to experience snow!

You can complement a drive up to Jebel Jais with a weekend in one of these luxurious RAK Family Resorts.

Staying overnight in RAK may be your preferred option if you want to see the tantalizingly beautiful sunrise from the peak – a truly special memory of your time in the UAE. Just remember you are still looking at about a 1-hour drive from the Al Hamra area of RAK to the peak.

Hatta, Dubai

Drive time from dubai 90 minutes (abu dhabi 2 hours 40 minutes).

A nice easy one for Dubai residents which you can manage in even half a day. Hatta has a really interesting past; actually a Dubai enclave (one of several in the UAE), it sits entirely inside the Emirate of Sharjah -though it was once, in fact, an Omani enclave until the 1850’s!

From the road, you are unlikely to see much of a difference as you pass through the Emirates.

The Hatta Heritage Village has had a significant facelift in recent years and a lot more recreational facilities have been added at Wadi Hub and Wadi Dam. Whilst not all of these are available in the hottest summer months, you can still stop for lunch in town or head to Cafe Gazebo at JA Hatta Fort Hotel. Hatta is a popular mountain escape even in the hotter summer months as it tends to be a few degrees cooler than the city.

If you want to make it an overnight stop, there is everything from camping to glamping and luxury resorts in the winter. The Sedr Trailers and Damani Lodges close from May to October however you can still enjoy family resort JA Hatta Fort Hotel .

Khasab and the Musandam Peninsular, Oman

Driving time from dubai 2.5 hours (abu dhabi 3.5 hours).

Arguably the most stunning of all the drives on this page is the Ras Al Khaimah to Kahsab , Musandam drive. There is a good reason this tiny Omani region has the nickname “Norway of Arabia” with stunning fjords dramatically meeting the sea, yet somehow the road in many places manages to dramatically hang to the cliff faces. It is certainly not a drive for the faint-hearted!

In the summer months, it is likely to be too hot to get out on the water near the Strait of Hormuz, but there is a small fort and the harbour area to explore in Khasab. You can find our full guide on things to do in Khasab here.

If you set off early it is possible to reach Khasab and back in a day from Dubai, but to truly take in everything this stunning region has to offer, an overnight stay is really essential.

Things to know about driving to Oman from the UAE

Assuming that borders are re-opened between the UAE and Oman, we have a detailed guide of things to consider for a border crossing into the Musandam Peninsula here .

Driving time to Khasab can vary significantly depending on when you are making your crossing. Over popular public holiday weekends, the border crossing process can take much longer so add another hour or two to these time estimates, and some patience!

Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain

Driving time from dubai & abu dhabi 1 hour 50 minutes.

Yet more mountains in the UAE? Yes! Jebel Hafeet proudly stands at 1,240m high and is the highest point in Abu Dhabi Emirate – standing quite separate from the Hajar Mountains that dominate the country’s east coast.

From the city of Al Ain below, you can take on the steep mountain climb to the summit with an incredible 60 turns on this full paved, 3-lane drive. There are plentiful overtaking spots and playpark stops along the way and a small eatery and park at the summit where you can marvel for miles over the open desert plains into Oman.

After your descent from Jebel Hafeet, pop into the lush springs you likely spied from above Green Mubazzarah.

If you’re looking to make an overnight trip of it, the Mecure Grand Jebel Hafeet is the only hotel actually on Jebel Hafeet; otherwise, check out these options for family resorts at reasonable prices in Al Ain .

Liwa Oasis Desert Drive

Drive time from dubai 3 hours, 20 mins (abu dhabi 2 hours 25 mins).

You will want a 4×4 to get the most out of this one, as you will be taken deep into the empty quarter. The summer months can be a little brutal for this excursion, so best arranged in the cooler winter months when camping amongst the dreamy red dunes is possible.

If you’re not so keen on pitching a tent, don’t worry, as nearby you can find luxury resorts, including Anantara Qasr al Sarab and Tilal Liwa .

Don’t have any wheels? See what car hire in the UAE costs here:

Read more on visiting the uae with kids.

We hope you have enjoyed this run through our favourite road trips in the UAE. If you’d like to explore the region further, why not try:

• Road-tripping from Dubai to Muscat
• Ultimate UAE Family Staycation Guide
• Winter Weekend Bucket list for the UAE (includes a printable list of ideas to keep on your fridge!)
• 6 Ecotourism Experiences you need to try in the UAE
• Musandam to Muscat; Boat, Plane or Car?

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The Family Travel in the Middle East team of travel writers are all parents based in the Middle East, sharing first hand experiences and reviews from across the region to help you plan your next family adventure.

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Andrew Montgomery

The provincial capital of Musandam is small but far from sleepy. Its souq resounds to a babble of different languages, including Kumzari (a compound language of Arabic, Farsi, English, Hindi and Portuguese), and its harbour briefly bursts with activity each time a cruise ship arrives. Fishing boats and dhows amble in and out of the creeks, picking up lobster pots or casting nets in the surrounding bays. Since the lifting of the trade embargo with Iran, the mad dash in fibreglass boats across the 55km strait has pretty much brought the semi-illicit trade in goats and cigarettes to an end, but piracy may yet stage a comeback if international sanctions are reapplied. The town has a great location wedged between steep cliffs and the sea, a feature you can't fail to appreciate when arriving by air or entering the harbour by boat.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Khasab Fort

With its command of the bay sadly diminished since Lulu Hypermarket was built on reclaimed land opposite, Khasab Fort nonetheless cuts quite a dash with…

Khmazera Castle

Buried in the heart of town (brown signs show the way), this small fortified house sports two cannons at the doorway, a renovated well in the courtyard…

Bassa Beach

Located a 2km walk from the ferry terminal, this sandy beach has shade and toilets and is the nearest place to Khasab for a swim. Wild camping is…

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One of the most enjoyable weekends I have spent and it was not just because of the beauty of Oman´s beaches, dunes and wadi but also because of perfect job...

Musandam’s major town, KHASAB sits at the far northern end of the peninsula in a narrow plain squeezed in between the mountains – one of the few sizeable areas of flat coastal real estate in the entire peninsula. It’s a small but lively place, and one which feels a long way from the rest of Oman, the slightly Wild West atmosphere stoked up by hordes of locals charging around in pick-up trucks, bands of Iranian traders loading up goods in the Old Souk and the occasional roar of an Omani airforce jet or the daily flight from Muscat coming in to land.

Khasab Fort

Marlboro time: smuggling in khasab.

Khasab is the obvious place to base yourself while exploring the peninsula. The town is also home to virtually all Musandam’s accommodation while its location and the number of tour agents in town makes it a good base for dhow rides out into the khors , diving trips and 4WD excursions into the mountains. Many visitors to Khasab are here on day-trips from Dubai and the people who do stay tend to stick to the Golden Tulip hotel. You’ll see surprisingly few visitors in town after around 4pm in the afternoon – which is perhaps all the more reason to stay the night.

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Take a road trip through the Mars-like terrain of the Arabian Peninsula, marvel at Muscat's Grand Mosque, get hands on Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, experience imposing desert forts, all on this unique trip! Experience the magic of Oman with a self-drive trip through this stunning and varied country.

The Great Outdoors of Oman

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Oman’s great outdoors: sleep under starry skies in the middle of the desert just as the native Bedouins do, hike around the crater of the Grand Canyon, watching as the light changes on the Jebel Shams Mountains, and swim in the Wadi Oasis.

Classic Oman

Few countries in the world can match Oman's geographical diversity, which boasts palm-fringed white sand beaches, verdant mountains, rolling golden sand dunes and turquoise-watered wadis (water-filled ravines). Experience them all with this unique trip.

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Oman offers a boundless and soulful destination, full of culture, ancient trade routes and incredible landscapes. Experience it all for yourself with this unique trip.

A Grand Tour of Oman, from Muscat to Khasab

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Down near the Old Souk, the town’s pretty stone fort was built by the Portuguese in the seventeenth century as part of their efforts to control passing maritime trade. The fort was originally on the seafront, though the waters have since receded a considerable distance, leaving the structure high and dry.

A couple of large wooden dhows stand outside, while three smaller boats sit in the courtyard within – a battil , mashuwwah and zaruqah . The battil (the one closest to the entrance) is particularly attractive, sporting the pretty cowrie-shell decorations around the prow and rudder which are typical of Musandam. The boat’s bow and stern also display a rare extant example of the traditional “stitched” method of boat building (see Ayjah), with planks literally sewn together using coconut thread. Close by stand modern replicas of a traditional bait al qufl (“house of the lock”) and a barasti (palm thatch) summer house, ingeniously constructed using stone pillars with permeable walls fashioned out of palm branches.

In the centre of the courtyard stands the fort’s most unusual feature: a large and completely detached circular tower , intended to provide an additional refuge in case the outer walls were breached. Entrance is via a ramp on one side and steps on the other, with a hearth built into the exterior wall below. The interior is filled with wide-ranging and informative exhibits covering various aspects of Musandam’s geology, culture and history.

From the entrance, steps lead up to the walls and a walkway on which you can make a circuit of the fort and its various towers – a couple of which still have their mangrove-pole ladders set into the interior walls. The second tower around houses various colourful but rather unedifying displays on traditional Musandam culture featuring colourful rugs, crockery and some droll mannequins. There’s also an interesting re-creation of a traditional apothecary’s shop and a display of fine traditional silver jewellery including enormously chunky elbow rings, necklaces featuring characteristic pouches (“Qur’an boxes”) used to store texts from the holy book (worn as magic charms to ward off evil). A couple of these also incorporate the large silver Maria Theresa Thaler coins which were widely used throughout the Gulf and East Africa during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and which were often incorporated into traditional Omani jewellery (and are still widely available in souvenir shops around the country to this day).

The tower diagonally opposite, on the breezy sea-facing side of the fort, houses the Wali’s Wing , with the usual old rugs and coffeepots alongside more unusual wali -related bric-a-brac including antique sewing and writing boxes, expired tins of boot polish and bottles of ink, and an old Philips radio.

Khasab was formerly infamous as the epicentre of the Oman–Iran contraband trade, thanks to its strategic location at the tip of the Arabian peninsula, just 45km from Iran across the Straits of Hormuz – a mere 45 minutes by speedboat. Up until 2001, taxes on US goods in Iran encouraged a flourishing trade in smuggling, with as many as five thousand Iranian boats visiting Khasab daily, arriving laden with boatloads of goats destined for the slaughterhouses of RAK and returning across the Straits of Hormuz weighed down with consignments of tea, electronics and, especially, cigarettes. Locals describe the golden age of smuggling as “Marlboro Time”, and the sight of thousands of Iranian speedboats loading up with piles of duty-free fags was formerly a tourist attraction in its own right. The smuggling trade also provided a major source of income for locals in Khasab, who provided transport and other logistical services – accounting for the extraordinary number of pick-up trucks around town, formerly used to shift vast quantities of contraband tobacco and other goods down to the waiting boats.

Since 2001, successive changes in customs regulations in Iran and the UAE have led to the virtual demise of smuggling in Khasab. Cigarettes are now exported legally from Jebel Ali Free Port in Dubai, while the goats with which the Iranians formerly made themselves welcome are delivered directly to Ras al Khaimah in the UAE. The town still sees a fair number of Iranian traders even so – perhaps two or three hundred boats a day – although they now come to buy up electronics and surplus household appliances for resale in Iran, an entirely legal activity, making them shoppers rather than smugglers. They’re granted a 12-hour pass, although they aren’t allowed further into town than the Old Souk (where you’ll often see them loading up trucks with old washing machines, fridges and suchlike) and must leave by sunset – a rather tame legacy of the town’s former customs-busting bravado.

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Road trip to Khasab, Mussandam.

Going on a road trip is like unravelling a treasure map of hidden gems, and when the destination is Khasab in the Musandam Peninsula, Sultanate of Oman, the journey becomes an travel of discovery. Picture yourself at the crossroads of adventure, driving slowly with one side mountains and other side wast ocean, where the asphalt leads you from the bustling cities of the United Arab Emirates to the tranquil shores of Oman’s northernmost tip of the continent. As you buckle up and set your GPS for Khasab, get ready for a road trip that transcends mere travel—it’s a voyage into the heart of rugged landscapes, cultural richness, and the allure of the Arabian Sea. Join me as we navigate the winding roads, traverse mountainous terrain, in the month of November and uncover the secrets that make this journey from the UAE to Khasab a chapter in the book of unforgettable adventures.

Preparation: Planning the Road Trip

I usually check the weather conditions before setting a trip. It should be favorable, other wise we will be speding whole day indoors and will not be able to explore anthing. The roads to Khasab is bit risky. You can expect flash flood pushing the gravels and land slids are quite often while raining. So avoid rainy season at all cost.

Lets get started with the most important part of any trip. The plan. A man withoutplan is alog in a floting river. The river get to decide where to take you. So lets plan properly.

A. Vehicle Checks: Ensuring a Smooth Ride

I drive a sedan. But its highly recommened to drive a 4×4 offroad capable SUV for exploring the unpaved roads of Khasab.

• Schedule a thorough inspection of your vehicle. Check the engine, brakes, tires, and fluid levels. If possible take it to your car mechanic and do a through checks.
• Ensure that your spare tire is in good condition, and all necessary tools for changing a tire are on hand.
• Carry your vehicle registration , insurance documents , and driver’s license. Ensure they are valid for the entire duration of your road trip.
• Insurance for you car. It is very important you to get the insurance paper which we call it Orange paper written in arabic. I got it on;ine by sending an email request to my car insurance provider. They replaied to me online with a page to print out having a Qr code on it.
• Keep a copy of your vehicle’s ownership certificate and any relevant roadside assistance memberships. If your car is under loan from Bank you may need NOC clearance letter from your bank to take it outside the country.
• If you are driving your friends car, you may need the NOC letter from the original owner of the car with is ID proof attested with it.
• Pack an emergency kit, including a first aid box, flashlight, basic tools, and jumper cables.
• Consider adding items like a reflective vest, warning triangle, and a fire extinguisher for added safety.
• Plan your fuel stops strategically, especially in remote areas. Keep your tank topped up.
• Check and refill essential fluids such as oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid.

B. Required Documents: Navigating Border Crossings

• Ensure all passengers have valid passports with minimun 6 months validity on it.
• Ensure your emirate ID with you.
• If necessary, obtain the required visas well in advance to avoid delays at the border for those who are on visit visa. Its better go woth the trvael agancies if you are on visit visa in UAE.
• Bring original vehicle registration documents and proof of ownership.
• Check if your vehicle insurance is valid for international travel. If not, consider obtaining additional coverage.

C. Currency and Finances:

There is an exit fee in the UAE border gate. and entry fee at Oman Border gate.

• Carry Omani Rials for transactions in Khasab. While some places may accept UAE currencies, it’s advisable to have the local currency just in case. From my personal experinces all the shops and groceries accept UAE dirhams equivalent to the Omani riyals.
• Crredit car is mostly prefered at the Border emigration offices.
• AED 30 for each person as a sur charge to exit UAE.
• OR 50 for each person for visa on arrival at Oman entrance.
• Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid any issues with credit card transactions abroad.
• Carry some cash for places that may not accept cards.

D. Navigation and Communication:

• Download offline maps or carry physical maps for areas with limited connectivity.
• Ensure your GPS navigation system is up to date and Oman map is downloaded before leaving.
• Have a local SIM card or an international roaming plan to stay connected during the journey. Du and etisalat is directly providing roaming services for few fils extra. It will be helpful in case of emergency.
• Share your travel itinerary and important contact details with a trusted friend or family member. Expected time of reporting and return. Keep them posted about your plans for each day.

The travel and route

I started early morning like 2 AM from my home. I ate well and slept early the night before like 7 PM after packing my stuff in the bag and woke up at 1 AM. got freshen up and had some snacks and set off.

I will give a small list of things which i took with me in the bag.

• Spare inner wears & socks
• Spare t-shirt and trackpants
• Snacks, fruits & water bottle,
• Strong cold coffee
• Swiss knife, lighter & Head torch.
• Snorkling kit & Swim wear
• Gopro, DSLR & tripod.
• Rain jacket (As it was mentioned in the weather report, it might rain)

The drive from Dubai to RAK was pretty easy at night. I Love drivign at night is so stress less and the roads are free from traffic conjuction. That why i prefer travelling at night. Also my idea was to get to the boder check post early before everyone turns up. Once people start coming then teh queue at the border will be big and it will take hours to get pass the gate. The process is bit slow there. If you are not feeling comfortable travelling in the night or you think you may get sleepy try avoid travelling at night for your safety.

Since it was raining, there is water pools everywhere on the road. I had to drive slowly and one time I hit a water pool in the middle of 311 and mud flap got broken. I had to park the car and fix the mudflap properly to continue.

The water driplets from the big trucks and cars in front was fogging up the front glass of car an was bit oily. It is highly recommended to add little shampoo in the car widscreen wash fluid to keep the glass clean.

Border Crossing: UAE to Oman

Once you reach the Al dara rtoad crossing slow down and find the parking area. Dont rush into the gates. you have procedure to finish. Be careful, it a military area so dont even think about taking some Photos from there. Its a big No no.

Ensure you have full tank fuel and food before leaving RAK city.

Get your passport, Emirates ID, Driving lisence, Vehicle Lisence, Insurance copy (Orange card), NOC (if rquired) and walk to the Depature room. Goto the counter and wait for your turn if there a queue.

You will have to pay 30 AED for exit chnarges and they will give you a paper recipt with QR code on it.

Make sure you collect all the documents and ensure the Exit stamp is doen in the passport and goto car.

Drive to the barrier gate where there is a green light on. Show the guard the paper recipt with QR code in it and he will allow you to pass.

It may be bit confusing for first timers, follow the arrow marks and you will reach Oman Entrance. Again Dont rush into the gate barrier. Find a parking and take all the documents with you and proceed to the Oman Emmigration office. Officers here are not good in English, but if they ask you any question, just make sure they understand you very well. You may use the help of google translator as well.

You will have to pay OR 50 for each person for the visa on arrival and fill up a small form form immigration.

Once you are done there, make sure you get entry Stamp on the passport and then proceed to car and then to the gate.

Next step is the security check. You will have to get down and open the trunk and bags to the securtiy personals there. Make sure you dont carry any illegal stuff that are not allowed through an airport. Arms, Ammunitions, Drones, Alcohol bottles etc. Camping stuffs are fine. Never face any problem with campfire & stuffs.

Once you are cleared, that security will stamp of the paper recipt and then you can proceed to the final gate. Show the paper recipt and you will proceed to enter oman.

Early morning the Emmigration counter are empty so for me it took less than 15 minutes to pass each check points. Thats what I advise you to do.

It was still early morning like 4 AM when i offically reached the roads to Khasab. I find nice parking area beside the sea and decided to take a nap till morning sunrise. I want to enjoy the sunrise and drive. It was Quiet and cold breeze, sound of the waves and drizzing rain. View Lightning far away in the sea.

Scenic Drive: Through the Hajar Mountains

I woke up when the twilight started appearing in the sky. Had some coffee from the stock and some snacks and then decided to drive towards Khasab.

As the wheels roll away from the familiar landscapes of the UAE, the road to Khasab transforms into a visual symphony, with each turn revealing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Hajar Mountains. This mountain range, draped in rugged grandeur, becomes an integral part of the journey, offering an unforgettable backdrop to the road trip.

Watch out and glow slowly.

My final obective is to reach this particular spot for camping. Yes you can reach here with your sedan car as well. But you need to be very creful while driving unpaved roads. It is upto you to take the risk.

So kept driving through the secnic routes straight to khasab town. On the way I parked some places on the main road to get some nice pictures. I got a couple of amazxing photos on the way with sun rise and rain. It was so amazing to see the wonders on the nature.

Khasab Arrival: Welcoming Harbor Town

There are couple of supermarkets, Hyper markets in the town and some nice authentic restaurents for you brunch. I reached the town around 9 AM and had nice breakfast from the local restaurents.

After taking a break nice cup of coffee, decided to travel to the destination. Khor Al najd or locally they call is as Corniche.

Before heading to the camping location, if you have time you can explore the near by locations like

Echo point :

Petroglyphs at Jebel Al Harim

Al Khalidiya Acacia Forest & Children’s Park

These are some pit stops to take some amazing photos. If you are not sure about the roads, just tun back. Because these road to the mountians are often washed off durign flash floods.

Acutally this is a resevred or protected area. Access to this locatin is some time restricted.

The unpaved road will lead to the hill top and then from there all the way down to the beach.

If you driving a sedan, use the lowest gear or second lowest gear to get the max torque and keep driving. Your tyre might slip, but thats perfectly fine.

When you are driving down hill, always ensure your gear is in the Lowest gear and drive as slow as possible.

Nestled within the dramatic landscape of Musandam, Khor Najd stands as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Far away from the bustling city life, this fjord offers a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace. As you approach Khor Najd, the coastal scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Towering cliffs, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear waters create a picturesque setting that seems almost untouched by time. Exploring Khor Najd often involves taking a boat excursion. Local boat operators offer tours that take you deep into the heart of the fjord, allowing you to marvel at the natural beauty that unfolds around every corner.

The waters of Khor Najd are known for their mesmerizing turquoise hue. The clarity of the sea offers a captivating glimpse into the marine life below. Keep an eye out for dolphins that may playfully escort your boat.

One of the charms of Khor Najd is the presence of secluded beaches and hidden coves along its shores. These peaceful spots provide an opportunity to relax, swim, or simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.

For those seeking underwater adventures, Khor Najd offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The marine life in this area is diverse, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of fish species. The fjord is flanked by majestic cliffs and unique rock formations that add to its allure. These geological wonders create a dramatic backdrop for the entire Khor Najd experience.

A visit to Khor Najd becomes even more magical during sunset. The warm hues of the setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere. Khor Najd retains a sense of remoteness and serenity, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature’s wonders.

The return.

Next day early morning after taking a nice refreshing dive in the fresh cold water, i decided to pack up and return. Directly drive to the khasab town and went for nicwe good breakfast. After Having food, it was tiem to explore the Kahsab town.

These are the some of the amazxin gplaces to visit.

Khasab Castle :

Al Kmazera Castle.

You might be able to spend 2 to 3 hours exploring these location for the day.

I wopuld highly recommend you to start you return journy before the sunset, so that you can have an amazng drive back with the sunset view on the right side of you car. You can stop by the beaches if you want to take photos or take another swim.

I reach back to the Border passing around 8 PM. As it was expected it was crowded. Directly park the car at the Oman gate and goto to the emigration counter to get the passport stamped with Exit seal. There is no payment require while returning. just ensure you got stamped. Then proceed to the car and pass the gate.

On dubai side, i remember you will have to drive through a X ray scanner and the stop at the parkign area. Goto the counter and do the entry stamp. No additional fees are required at this time as well. Once you confirm you got stamped you can take your car and proceed to the gate to the exit.

Beyond the words on these pages lies a world of rugged landscapes, crystalline waters, and cultural richness waiting to be discovered. The road to Khasab is not merely a passage; it’s an expedition that unveils the very essence of travel — the joy of exploration, the thrill of the unknown, and the serenity found in the embrace of nature.

So, fellow wanderer, pack your bags, fuel your curiosity, and set forth on a journey that promises not just destinations, but transformative experiences. Whether you’re captivated by the panoramic vistas of the Hajar Mountains or entranced by the hidden beauty of Khor Najd, the Musandam Peninsula beckons with open arms.

As you navigate the landscapes that have unfolded in these words, remember that the true magic lies in experiencing it firsthand. Khasab and the Musandam Peninsula await, ready to etch their indelible mark on your travel memoirs.

So, dear reader, let the road call your name, and may your journey be as boundless as the horizon, as rich as the culture, and as enduring as the memories you create along the way. The beauty of Khasab and the Musandam Peninsula beckons — answer the call and write your own chapter in the story of exploration and adventure.

Please let me know if you find this article useful. If you want me to add your experince, please write to me.

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Things to remember while planning a trip to Khasab from UAE

Surrounded by beautiful mountainscapes and craggy inlets, Khasab is one of the most-visited exclaves in Oman. Famous for its dhow cruises, souks and restaurants, the place is extremely popular with tourists from the UAE. If you’re planning a trip to Khasab for the first time, there are certain tips to keep in mind to make the most of your journey. 

Things to remember before planning a trip to Khasab

This port city on Oman’s Musandam Peninsula has plenty of attractions for tourists. You can enjoy coastal views, dolphin sightings, journey across wooden boats and visit green valleys and mountain villages there. However, the key to bask in these moments is to be well-prepared for the trip. 

Here’s a checklist of things you need to remember before setting on an exciting journey to Khasab.

Plan your trip to Khasab during the cooler months

Since Khasab has an arid landscape, the average temperature varies greatly here. Half of the year, the temperature remains hot. While during the other half, cool breezes keep the weather fairly pleasant. 

The weather is usually good in November and March, so if you’re planning a trip to Khasab, make sure you visit it during these months. Avoid visiting it during the rainy season because the mountain terrain gets very muddy and slippery.

Learn about the visa requirements to reach Khasab from UAE

You can easily reach Khasab from UAE by road. The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road runs straight from Abu Dhabi and passes through different emirates, extending right into Oman border. If you hold a designation in the UAE which is approved for a visa to be issued immediately, you will be able to enter the place by paying AED 35 at the UAE exit point and getting a visa at AED 50 from Hatta checkpoint in Oman.

The visa will be valid for 28 days. To attain a visa, you will require a three months’ valid passport and UAE resident visa that you will have to show at the checkpoint. You can also apply for a visa online to travel from UAE to Khasab. 

If you are travelling with drivers, housemaids or other companions, please note that they will be allowed only if they show their labour cards and passports.

Their passports should be valid for not less than three months. Those who work in service, construction or the sales industry will have to get a visa stamped on their passport from Oman Embassy in Abu Dhabi or Oman Consulate in Dubai to enter the border of Oman.

Book your accommodation beforehand

It’s better to book accommodation beforehand because the hotels are mostly crowded during peak tourist sessions. In Khasab, you can stay in the Lake Hotel, Khasab Hotel or Diwan Al-Amir. Each of these hotels offer comfortable accommodation that will make your trip memorable.  

You can enjoy 24-hour front desk and room service and free WiFi and swimming pool access there. 

Make wise clothing choices

Similar to the UAE, Khasab also has certain cultural sensibilities that you should respect while planning your wardrobe. Wear a dress that covers your knees and shoulders especially if you are going to the malls, souks, shops or villages. Swimwear is only confined to the beach and hotel pools. You can’t wear it outside the premises of beaches or pools. 

If you’re visiting during the winter months, bring along a pair of jackets and sweaters high -SPF sunscreen lotion w ith you.

In case, you plan to visit the city in June, July and August, take hats or head protectors along because these are the hottest months in Oman and you will need something to avoid direct contact with sunlight.

If you plan to go for cycling in the city, pack long or short-sleeved tops, jerseys, baggies and breathable socks as well in your suitcase.

Things to remember after entering Khasab

Now that you entered the premises of the city, you will need to focus on a couple of things to make your trip as exciting as you imagined it to be.

Get a SIM Card or use UAE telecom card

Once you enter the city, get a SIM card for yourself. Omantel is a good mobile network in Oman that you can opt for. Otherwise, with a UAE SIM Card, roaming, too, is pretty reasonable for you. 

Exchange currency

You can exchange money in Khasab from banks during weekdays or the Western Union office. Muscat Bank ATM, Oman National Bank ATM will assist you in this regard. 

Other than that, you can approach Travelex, the world’s foreign exchange currency specialist for currency exchange.

Getting around Khasab

Like elsewhere in Oman, taxis are not easily available in Khasab so you will need to rely on your hotel minivan transportation or consider a rent-a-car option. Options include Rahal Khasab Rent-a-Car and Musandam car hire services.

Walking around the mountainous region is also a good option. If you’re into full-day treks, you can explore various places of the city, including souks and many nearby villages on foot. However, this option is suitable only if you are going to the city during the winter months. 

Similarly, browsing through different areas of the city on a bicycle can also make your exploration journey more fun-filled and easy.

Explore different places in Khasab

Plan your itinerary carefully. There are many things to do in Khasab.

Adventurous activities in Khasab 

You can go for scuba diving on the upper east coast of Musandam, enjoy a dhow boat excursion within 15 rials and wander around the village of Tawi. Tawi has some prehistoric drawings and rocks engraved with warriors, animals and boats. Khasab boat tour, courtesy of Tawi, make your trip even more memorable.

Visiting the Mountain Safari, camping at the Khasab Beach, snorkelling during Musandam Khasab day trip and enjoying the views of dolphins are also some of the things that you can do in Khasab. 

Shopping in Khasab

You can also enjoy a shopping spree in Khasab. There is a local handicraft shop inside Khasab Castle that offers local handicrafts and Omani souvenirs so, maybe, you can buy them for your friends and family. 

Located in Lulu Hypermarket, shops such as Merchants of Pottery & Handicrafts and Hormuz Flower also offer beautiful handmade artefacts. You can find earthenware pots, camel sticks and axes there.

In the tiny Sikkit market, there are fresh palm dates available that you can pair with these souvenirs and handicrafts.

Heritage sites in Khasab

Cutting quite a dash with its beautiful ornamentations, Khasab Fort is also a place that you need to add to your itinerary. It is a well-preserved place that houses an ethnographic museum in Oman. As you walk into the place, you can see the flora and fauna of the peninsula and a video highlighting the journey of local fishermen.

Sporting two cannons, a renovated well and a bunch of giant oyster shells, Khmazera Castle is also worth visiting. You can visit it during a walk or while driving around town.

Beach in Khasab

Amidst all these places, is the most relaxing place of Khasab – Bassa Beach. A perpetual hive of activity, the quintessential beach boasts of a variety of kebab shops and cool evening breezes.

Other than these elements, know that there are many cruises that start from Dubai and drop passengers to Oman and other places across the world. So, if you want to enjoy a luxurious trip to Khasab or other areas in the country, hop aboard any of these cruise liners in Dubai and escape in the sea.

Khasab is not the only place to visit in Oman. There are many other places to explore in Oman as well. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure trip across the country, you can check them out as well.

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Musandam Khasab Tour From Dubai, Sharjah & Ras Al Khaimah

The Musandam Khasab Tour from Dubai to the Musandam Peninsula is a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty of the Musandam region with a full-day dhow cruise. Oman’s fjords are considered the most amazing fjords in Norway. During the Khasab Musandam tour, you will get a chance to explore the beautiful sheers of cliff beating into crisp, blue waters by sitting on a wooden dhow. The dhow is decorated with comfortable Arabian-style cushions and carpets to feel comfortable during cruising.

With the Khasab Musandam trip from Dubai, you will enjoy dolphin watching, swimming snorkeling, and exploring the historical Telegraph and Seebi islands. These Islands are considered the best places for swimming and snorkeling. Traditional Omani lunch with unlimited all-time refreshments will be served on board during the full-day Khasab Musandam dhow cruise. Take a break from your busy routine and book your Musandam Khasab trip from Dubai and enjoy it with your family and loved ones.

Tour Activities

• Cruising into Musandam fjords
• Telegraph and Seebi Island visit
• Natural Dolphin Watching
• Snorkeling and Swimming
• View of fisherman villages
• Two way shared transport from UAE
• Plain water, coffee, tea, and fruits
• On-board traditional delicious lunch
• Basic toilet and shower facility
• Snorkeling gears, life jackets, and towels
• Oman visit visa (5 omr)
• UAE exit fees (35 aed)
• Any additional services
• Anything not in inclusions

Requirements

• Oman visit visa for all participants
• Original passport for everyone
• 90 days passport validity for all
• 90 days validity for UAE residents

Musandam Khasab Tour Expectations

Musandam Khasab tour from Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah is the most demanded travel plan. It is a hassle-free Musandam Khasab tour including a full-day Khasab dhow cruise , border crossing assistance, and comfortable two-way transport. You will not only experience the amazing coast life, fjords, bays, and sandy beaches but will also see dolphins and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the pristine waters. What can be more adventurous and entertaining than cruising into the fjords and eating a delicious Omani lunch?

Khasab Tour From Dubai Itinerary

With the Khasab Musandam tour from Dubai, you can enjoy an amazing drive that will start from the border and view the beautiful mountains scenes. Below you can find the detailed itinerary of Khasab Musandam tour from Dubai

06:00 AM – Pick Up From Dubai

Before the formal start of the trip, you will be picked up from Dubai. Do remember to confirm your pick-up location at the time of booking the Musandam Khasab day trip from Dubai with pick and drop. It is recommended that the destination for pick up must be within Dubai, Sharjah, and RAK.

09:30 AM – Arrival at Khasab Harbor

We will pick you up from your confirmed location and will travel through the RAK passing through the beachfront street, Gulf of Arabia, and Straits of Hormuz. As you will reach Khasab Harbor our staff will lead you towards the Khasab Dhow port.

10:00 AM – Dhow Cruise Starting

Full day dhow cruise trip will formally start at 10:00 am from Khasab dhow port. At the start of the trip, staff will welcome you on the dhow and help you to settle on the dhow for cruising. As we will leave from the Khasab dhow port unlimited soft drinks, coffee, tea, fruits, and Omani tea will be served to you on board. As the tour will start, get ready for fun-loving and adventurous activities and explore the beauty of Musandam by cruising in the Musandam Fjords.

10:45 AM – Natural Dolphin Watching

The first activity during the full day dhow cruise would be dolphin watching. As the dhow will enter the Musandam Fjords get ready to enjoy the best moments of dolphin watching. Our trained staff will guide you toward the best dolphin-watching spots. Dolphin watching has always been a fun-loving activity for all tourists. There is also the possibility that dolphins will come along the boat and will leave you with the best moments

11:30 AM – Swimming at Telegraph Island

After enjoying the best moments of dolphin watching we will move towards the historical Telegraph Island. This island is considered the best place for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy swimming snorkeling in the crystal water of Musandam Fjords. Snorkeling gear and life jackets will be provided to you on the boat. Don’t forget to bring your own swimming suits.

01:00 PM – Onboard Lunch

Traditional Omani lunch including fried rice, fried chicken, vegetable gravy, Arabian bread, Hummus, Salad, freshwater, and countless drinks will be served onboard around 01:00 pm. Enjoy your lunch and cruise in the crystal water of the Musandam sea.

2:30 PM – Swimming Near Seebi Island

The second stop for swimming snorkeling would be near Seebi Island. Along with swimming snorkeling, you can also enjoy beautiful views of colorful fishes here. Enjoy the beautiful moments of underwater life and make your trip unforgettable.

3:15 PM – Departure To Khasab Port

After exploring the beauty of Musandam by cruising along the Musandam Fjords now the dhow will leave for Khasab Port. Moving towards the Khasab port we will also explore the small fisherman villages including Nadafi, Qanah, Maqlab, Seeb, and Shem. Enjoy the amazing views of unseen Bedouin villages that always remains a fun-loving activity.

04:00 PM – Arrival at Khasab Port

At 04:00 pm the dhow will reach Khasab dhow port. Here the Khasab Musandam tour from Dubai and Sharjah with pick and drop will come to end. We will say goodbye and leave you with unforgettable and lovely memories.

07:30 PM – Drop Off In Dubai

As soon you finish the full day dhow cruise, your driver will be waiting for you at the dhow cruise port and will drive you back to Dubai. Normally we will drop you off around 07:30 pm in Dubai at the given location.

Border Crossing Details

• Single entry Oman visit vis is 5 OMR each and 35 AED UAE exit fee need to be paid on the border.
• The passport of all participants must be valid for more than 90 days from the travel date.
• If you have a UAE resident visa then it must be valid for more than 90 days.
• You must carry your original passports with you to cross the border.
• You must carry a vehicle registration card (Mulika to cross the border.
• If you don’t have car insurance, you can buy it from the border. (around 100 AED)
• If you are renting a car then must get a NOC from a car Rental Company to cross borders.
• If you have sponsored (dependent) visa then the sponsor must be traveling along.
• All professions are not eligible for an arrival visa, check your profession first.
• Single entry visa holders are not allowed, their visa will be canceled on exiting UAE.

DUBAI KHASAB TOUR

Khasab tour from Dubai is a hassle-free tour plan with a full-day cruise, lunch, and two-way transport.

DUBAI MUSANDAM TOUR

Book a Musandam Dibba tour from Dubai or Sharjah and enjoy an adventurous dhow cruise and food.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE

Spend your day cruising into the Musandam fjords with dolphins and sleep on boat deck under starry stars.

FULL DAY DHOW CRUISE

Enjoy six hours of cruising experience, watch dolphins, snorkel, swim in pristine waters, and onboard lunch.

HALF DAY DHOW CRUISE

Cruise into Musandam fjords, watch dolphins, visit Telegraph Island, and enjoy snorkeling swimming.

MOUNTAIN SAFARI

Enjoy a luxury off-road safari and explore Jebel al Harim, Khor Najd, fossils, and wadis on the way and Bait al Qufl.

BEACH CAMPING TRIP

Explore Musandam fjords, watch dolphins, snorkel and swim in pristine waters and spend a night on campsite.

Dubai to Oman by Road: Driving Across the Border (2024)

Planning a trip from Dubai to Oman by road ? Based on my many trips from UAE to Oman by road I put together this extensive guide that will help you prepare for a road trip from Dubai to Oman by car.

Whether you are renting a car in Dubai or driving your own vehicle , getting from Dubai to Muscat by road (or elsewhere in Oman ) is pretty straightforward.

Nonetheless, there is some important information that you need which I share in this post: UAE-Oman border crossings and procedures , required documents to drive through UAE Oman border by rental car and private car , including car insurance (orange card), driving times and distance from Dubai to Oman (and from other emirates in the UAE) and last but not least, how to get Oman visit visa both as a tourist in Dubai (UAE) and as a UAE resident .

This guide covers absolutely everything you need to know before you go traveling from Dubai to Oman by car . Also read this post, if you are going from Abu Dhabi to Oman, or from another Emirate.

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

Dubai to Oman by road requirements: everything you need to know in 2023

Uae to oman by car: a quick checklist.

• A car- if you are looking to rent one, then I recommend checking Discovercars and Rentalcars car search aggregators for the best car rental rates in the UAE .
• Car registration card ( Mulkiya ), car insurance in Oman-orange card, driver’s license. 
• An International Driving Permit might be required when renting a car in UAE as a tourist.
• NOC certificate for a rental car or if you are driving a borrowed or leased car. 
• For vehicles registered in Dubai -Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes (UAE-expats only).
• Oman tourist visa (obtained online or at the border, subject to nationality).
• You need a passport to enter Oman from UAE by road.
• For UAE visitors going to Oman: your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after the visa issue date. 
• For UAE expats going from Dubai to Oman : UAE residency should be valid for at least 3 months and passport for at least 6 months after the visa issue date.
• Advisable  Travel Insurance .  I always take out one on my trips to Oman to have peace of mind.

Is a road trip from Dubai to Oman by car worth it?

Traveling to  Oman by road from  Dubai  (or Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate)  is the best way to visit the Sultanate. Roads in UAE and Oman are in excellent condition and driving from Dubai to Muscat or elsewhere in Oman is a breeze.

Whether you are a UAE resident or visiting Dubai as a tourist, you can easily go on a road trip not only to  Muscat , but also visit nearby  Musandam , head on a long drive to Salalah , or just about anywhere else in  Oman  from any Emirate in the UAE either for a weekend or longer. 

Although the distance from Dubai to Muscat by road (the most popular Dubai-Oman route) is almost 500 kilometers and takes 5 hours to drive, do not get discouraged. The drive is long but pleasant: along the way, you will be blessed with the otherworldly landscapes of the Hajar mountains, the beautiful Gulf of Oman coastline, and rolling desert dunes. Moreover , petrol in UAE and Oman is cheap making it yet another great reason to go on a road trip to Oman from the UAE.

If you are already in the Sultanate of Oman, and wondering if you should rent a car in Oman and drive, then you will find my guide to Renting a car and driving in Oman useful.

Dubai to Oman by Road: driving your own car from UAE to Oman

Can i take my car from dubai to oman.

Yes, as a UAE resident, you can drive your own car from Dubai to Oman.

What documents do I need to drive my car from UAE to Oman?

To drive your car from UAE to Oman you need the following car documents:

• Driver’s license
• Car registration card ( mulkiya )
• Orange card – car insurance policy for driving in Oman
• For vehicles registered in Dubai -Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes.

How to get an orange card for Oman?

When driving your car from UAE to Oman, make sure to obtain a so-called  orange card  from your insurance company. This card serves as a car insurance policy that covers your car while driving in Oman. It is always required when traveling in the GAIF (General Arab Insurance Federation) countries (which includes Oman).

If you purchased a car insurance policy that already covers Oman territory (many bigger insurance providers include Oman), you will get an orange card free of charge. Otherwise, you can request your car insurance provider to include coverage for the Sultanate of Oman and issue an orange card for an additional fee.

Important! Make sure to contact your car insurance company and request to issue an orange car a few days before your trip.

Good to know: Whenever I request an orange card for my Dubai to Muscat trips, I usually receive it the next day via email from my insurance company. However, in some cases, you might have to collect it in person and it takes a couple of days for the insurance company to issue an orange card.  Therefore, the best is to call your insurance company and ask for all the details about the orange card processing times and costs (if any).

Getting Oman car insurance policy at the UAE-Oman border

If you are already heading from UAE to Oman by road and forgot to obtain the orange card, do not worry. You can get a car insurance policy covering driving in Oman at the border. According to the latest information I have, it costs 105 AED for 5 days which is the minimum number of days you can purchase insurance at the border.

IMPORTANT: Orange card purchased at the UAE-Oman border only covers damages caused by the Insured to a Third Party in a foreign GAIF member country (including Oman in this case). That means damages done to your car will not be covered.

Can I use a UAE license to drive in Oman?

If you are a UAE resident, you can use your UAE driving license to  drive in Oman .

Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes.

If you are driving a Dubai-registered vehicle from Dubai to Oman, according to RTA (Roads & Transport Authority), you should obtain a Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes.

Documents required for the certificate:

• Original Emirates ID.
• NOC from the Automobile & Touring Club of The UAE if you are a UAE-expat (this does not apply for GCC citizens).

The service costs 170 AED in total.

From my personal experience, I was never asked for such a document when driving from Dubai to Oman my Dubai-registered car. I found out about this requirement only recently but apparently, it was in place for years.

Moreover, I have been to Oman dozens of times. I went to Musandam , Muscat , and Salalah using different borders, and I was never asked for this certificate. People I know who also travelled to Oman from Dubai with their vehicles were never asked for one either.

I got to know about this particular certificate accidentally when I was looking for an NOC form for a borrowed car (more about it in the section below) on RTA website.

Nonetheless, if you are driving a Dubai-registered car, you can apply for this Tourism Purpose certificate through RTA, more application process here (as I understand you cannot do it online, you must go to one of the RTA centers).

Dubai to Oman by Road: can I drive a borrowed or leased car from UAE to Oman?

If you want to drive to Oman in a vehicle that is not in your name, below are the two most common scenarios and what to do to successfully cross the border.

Can I drive my friend’s, spouse’s, or company’s car from UAE to Oman?

Yes, you can drive someone else’s car as long as you have the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the owner (written permission to drive their car across the UAE-Oman border) along with car registration documents, and, of course, insurance covering the territory of Oman (orange card).

I would also recommend obtaining a Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes discussed above if you are borrowing a Dubai-registred car.

NOC for the car to Oman format

If you are borrowing a car from a friend, spouse, or your work car, you can ask them to write down a free-style format NOC letter. It has to state the owner’s name, EID, residency visa number, and passport number and that they have no objection to you (make sure to include your name) taking/using the car from UAE to Oman. You should also attach a photocopy of the car owner’s ID along with the letter.

IMPORTANT: I received a letter from a reader who said they had problems at the Hatta-Al Wajajah border with taking a borrowed car because a free-form NOC issued by the car owner was not accepted. This is the first time someone complained about not being able to pass the border with a borrowed car because of an invalid NOC letter. I contacted RTA (The Road and Transform Authority in UAE) to check if they can provide a formal NOC form that the car owner has to fill in. The RTA representative confirmed that there is no need to come to their premises and that the owner can actually issue a free-form NOC letter. I suspect (this is only my assumption), that the problem was not an NOC of the vehicle owner. It could have been the Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes was also required for a borrowed vehicle that is Dubai-registered.

What if my car is still on the mortgage, can I drive it to Oman?

I drove my leased car from Dubai to Oman through the Hatta-Al Wajajah border without any issues. Nobody asked me any questions related to the lease. Neither did I contact the bank to ask if I needed any special permission to drive across the border between UAE and Oman.

In general, according to my research, people were allowed to cross the Hatta-Al Wajajah UAE-Oman border with their cars which are on a mortgage.

However, I would recommend contacting your bank and requesting a No Objection Certificate from them to have complete peace of mind.

Good to know: many people reported (and I second them from my experience) that the easiest UAE-Oman border to cross with borrowed car is Hatta-Al Wajajah. Folks at this border are laid back and they never even ask for the NOC even when you are driving somebody else’s car. Meanwhile, other Oman-UAE borders are stricter and they most likely request NOC.

Dubai to Oman by Road: Can I take a rental car from Dubai to Oman?

Yes, you can take a rental car from UAE to Oman. Nonetheless, before renting a car in Dubai (or elsewhere in UAE), make sure to check that the specific agency allows you to take the car across the UAE-Oman border. For example, with  Discovercars  or  Rentalcars , before making a reservation, you can always check if taking a car to Oman is permitted by the rental company.

On Discovercars website you can click on Rental Conditions->Cross Border policy to see if driving a car through the border is allowed.

UAE Car rental companies that allow taking rental cars to Oman

To help you save some time, I found out that the following car rental agencies permit border crossing from Dubai to Oman: Aurostrad, Dollar, Avis, SIXT. All can be booked through Discovercars and Rentalcars (it is cheaper to book through car search aggregators than directly through the company).

Find the best rates for renting a car in UAE with Discovercars

Dubai to oman by road: required documents to drive a rental car from uae to oman.

To drive a rental car from UAE to Oman you need the following car documents:

• Driver’s license (the driver must be the same person who rented the car)
• NOC certificate provided by the insurance company
• Car insurance policy for driving in Oman provided by car rental company

NOC: written permission to take UAE rental car to Oman

If you plan to go to Oman from UAE in a rental car, one of the most important documents you have to obtain is a No Objection Certificate (NOC) that you will request from your rental company.

Whether you booked a car through Discovercars or Rentalcars, or directly with a company, make sure to contact the agency directly at least 2-4 days ahead of your trip (depending on the company). The rental company will request your driver’s license and passport copy in order to process the required documents (NOC and also additional car insurance which I talk about in the next paragraph).

Good to know: UAE-based rental companies specify that not all their vehicles can be taken to Oman from UAE. Therefore, you might change your booked vehicle in case it does not fall under the permitted vehicles category.

Car insurance policy for Oman

To drive to Oman from the UAE you will also have to purchase an additional car insurance policy for Oman. This policy must be issued by your car hire in UAE company. Any other car insurance that you have purchased elsewhere will not be valid. Note, that you cannot obtain Oman car insurance at the border when you are driving a rental car.

The cost of a car insurance policy for Oman is combined with NOC issuance cost and varies across the companies.

As a reference, I found on the Avis website, that cost of the NOC certificate and additional insurance is combined:

• 1 to 3 days- 450 AED, and 100 AED for an additional day
• 7 days – 750 AED, and 100 AED for an additional day
• 1 month- 1500 AED, and 100 AED for an additional day

You will receive your NOC certificate and insurance upon collection of the rental car. Keep this with you to show at the border if requested.

Extra costs for taking your rental car from UAE to Oman

Also, note that all rentals in UAE and Oman have a mileage cap of around 200-250 km/day (calculated as a total for your rental period). Exceeding the allowance means you have to pay an extra of around 1 AED per kilometer. Oman is around 4 times bigger than the UAE, and it is very easy to finish the mileage allowance when driving from Dubai to Oman.

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Is an international license valid in UAE and Oman? 

If you are a tourist visiting the UAE and are also planning to drive to Oman, you have to have a driving license issued in your country of residence, matching the residency stated on your passport.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in UAE and Oman as a tourist?

When driving in UAE and Oman as a tourist you may be required to have International Driving Permit (IDP). However, nationals of some countries are exempt from this requirement if their Passport and driving license is issued from the same country.

This applies to the following countries: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Slovakia, Finland, Spain, Netherlands, Greece, Sweden, Belgium, Ireland, Turkey, Denmark, Portugal, Austria, France, United Kingdom, Norway, Romania, Luxembourg, Latvia, Serbia, Lithuania, United States of America, Canada, Japan, Australia, Singapore, People’s Republic of China, South Korea, New Zealand, Hong Kong and South Africa.

Nationals from all other countries and those whose passports and Driving licenses are not from the same country must hold an international driving license accompanied by their original driving license.

Related articles: Plan your trip to Dubai with my 7 Days in Dubai Itinerary

Driving from UAE & Dubai to Oman routes and UAE-Oman border crossings

UAE and Oman share several borders. The route you will take depends on where in Oman you are going to and which UAE emirate you are driving from/to.

Important:  there are specific borders that are open for everybody: tourists, GCC residents, and GCC citizens. While some of the UAE Oman borders are open to GCC citizens and Omani nationals only but not to UAE expats and tourists. 

Below is a list of the UAE-Oman border posts open for tourists, GCC residents, and GCC citizens:

• Hatta-Al Wajajah Border Crossing in Hatta;
• Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing in Al Ain;
• Khatam Al Shiklah in Al Ain;
• Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam (Westside coastal Khasab road);
• Dibba checkpoint – Musandam East coast (north of Fujeirah Emirate);
• Khatmat Malaha Border Post in Kalba (Eastern Sharjah, Gulf of Oman side).

Following is detailed information and recommendations on which UAE-Oman border to take based on your location in UAE and destination in Oman.

Hatta – Al Wajajah Border Crossing

Hatta Al-Wajajah border is one of the most popular crossings for travelers from Dubai to Muscat by road. It is also the closest to Dubai UAE-Oman border that is open to everyone including UAE expats and tourists. The time spent to cross this border is usually around 30 min to 1 hour depending on how busy it is. People tend to travel more during public holidays and weekends, thus allow extra time for crossing this popular UAE-Oman border.

Cross Hatta-Al Wajajah border if:

• You are driving from Dubai to  Muscat  or to the Eastern part of Oman. It is 140 KM from Dubai to the border and takes approximately 1 HR 40 MIN to drive from downtown Dubai to the Hatta Al Wajajah border. 
• Hatta-Al Wajajah is also the closest border to cross if you are driving from other emirates except for Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. That being said, when driving from Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain to the East of Oman Mainland, the closest border is Hatta-Al Wajajah.

You can also take this border if you want to drive from  Dubai to Salalah along the coast , but it will be a much longer route than through the border in Al Ain.

Important!   When driving from Dubai to Hatta Al Wajajah, take Sharjah-Kalba road E102 followed by the new Hatta road (there is no need to reach Shawka). DO NOT get confused if you are coming via E44 through Al Madam. This route will bring you to a border near Al Madam in Sharjah. Currently, it is closed (or only open for GCC citizens). 

Tip: once you are in Oman, and heading to Muscat from Hatta border, set your navigation to take you to the newly built highway which runs in the hinterlands of Oman. This is a much nicer and slightly faster route than the one that runs along the coast (you don’t actually see the coast).

Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing in Al Ain

Located in Al Ain, the Garden City of UAE, Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing is convenient if you are driving from the capital Abu Dhabi, or if you are headed to Nizwa, Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar, or Salalah.

Cross the Mezyad-Hafeet border if:

• You are driving from Abu Dhabi to Mainland Oman. It is 190km and around 2 hrs drive from Abu Dhabi to the Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing in Al Ain. 
• You are driving from Dubai to Nizwa, Jebel Shams, and  Salalah  in Southern Oman. The Meyzad-Hafeet border is 160km and 2 hours drive from Dubai Downtown. 
• You are driving from other Emirates (Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain) to Nizwa, Jebel Shams, and  Salalah  in Southern Oman.

Tip: if you are doing a road trip to Oman that starts in Muscat but finishes in Nizwa, you can use Mezyad-Hafeet border to come back to UAE.

Check this  Dubai to Salalah road trip planner  if you are thinking of driving to Salalah.

Khatam Al Shiklah border in Al Ain

This is the other UAE-Oman border in Al Ain which is mainly used by trucks. However, regular cars can also use it as an alternative to Mezyad-Hafeet. It takes a similar amount of time to get to this border as to the Mezyad border. 

I have used this border before and it was very quiet with barely any cars.

Note:  the distance between Khatam Al Shiklah control posts on UAE and Oman sides is around 30km. Thus, don’t get confused, it’s a long drive in no man’s land. 

Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam (Westside coastal Khasab road)

Use this Al Dhara Border Crossing if you are driving to Khasab in the  Musandam Peninsula  on the west side.

Located at the Northern tip of Ras al Khaimah emirate, the Al Dhara border crossing connects UAE to Oman’s exclave Musandam Governorate, Westside. 

It takes 2 hours to reach the Musandam Al Dhara border from Dubai and 3.5 hours from Abu Dhabi.

Planning on going from Dubai to Musandam, Oman? Here is my  detailed  Musandam Travel Guide   which includes border procedures and the best things to do in Musandam for a day, two, or more.

Dibba checkpoint – Musandam East coast (north of Fujairah Emirate)

Use the Dibba checkpoint crossing if you are going to the East side of Musandam, Oman.

Dibba border is essentially a military checkpoint rather than an official border crossing. There is no official checkpoint on the Oman side, only on the UAE side. Also, there are two checkpoints next to each other- one for GCC citizens only, and the other for tourists and GCC residents.

If you are visiting the Musandam Peninsula from the Dibba side, you can use a tour operator or stay at Six Senses Ziggy Bay Resort, or Dibba Resort to be able to cross this checkpoint visa-free. Tour operators or hotels will arrange an entry permit for you if you have a booking with them.

However, if you are planning to go on hiking in Wadi Khub al Shamzi, or mountain biking in that area, you can still use an Oman visit visa to cross the Dibba checkpoint. 

Just before the lockdown back in 2020, we crossed the Dibba checkpoint with an Oman visit visa for GCC residents when we were going hiking on the East side of Musandam, Oman. We did not know about permits being arranged by tour operators. Also, the officers at the border did not question us. We explained that we are going for a hike and they let us through.

To plan your visit from Dubai to Muscat, the capital of Oman. Find out The best things to do in Muscat: 1-3 days itinerary.

Khatmat Malaha Border Post in Kalba (Eastern Sharjah, Gulf of Oman side)

Use this border crossing:  if you are driving from Fujeirah or Kalba (a town that belongs to Sharjah Emirate on the East side of UAE).

Attention!  Information about this border crossing is not very clear. According to my research, it looks like it is open to GCC residents. However, some people reported that they could not cross the Khatmat Malaha border with a rental car even when they have NOC and insurance. You will be directed to the Hatta border.

In case you are traveling from Fujeirah to Oman as a tourist, you better head directly to Hatta- Al Wajajah border crossing.

FUN FACT:  Did you know you can visit Oman from UAE without a visa or permit? Even more, you can also visit UAE inside Oman. A small territory that is an exclave of the Musandam Governorate is called Madha. This tiny piece of land belongs to Oman and is an enclave of the UAE near Khor Fakkan town on the East Coast. What is even more fascinating is that you can cross the UAE-Oman border twice, and find Nahwa in the middle of Madha. Nahwa is an enclave territory that belongs to the UAE and is surrounded by Madha from all sides.  You do not need any permit or visa to enter Madha!

UAE-Oman border crossing procedures: waiting times, formalities, and exit fees

UAE-Oman border crossing procedures may appear somewhat confusing if you are travelling from Dubai to Oman by car for the first time. Hence, I share the step-by-step procedures and formalities that you have to go through at UAE Oman land borders. The bellow described procedure is exactly what you will have to do at the Hatta-Al Wajajah border. However, other UAE-Oman borders have similar steps.

UAE to Oman by car border crossing step-by-step

1. pay uae exit fee.

At the first drive-through counter on the UAE side of the UAE-Oman border, you will be asked to pay the exit fee of 35 AED plus 5% VAT per person. Collect the receipt and show it at the next window together with your passports where you will get an UAE exit stamp.

You can pay in cash or by card. Nonetheless, I always recommend having cash (UAE dirhams) just in case.

Note that when leaving UAE by land through any border to Oman you must always pay 35 AED exit fee per person, and only then you can get an exit stamp on your passport. 

2. Present your Oman visit visa (or obtain an Oman visa on arrival) and get entry to Oman stamp

After exiting UAE, you will have to proceed with a visa check and entry stamp to Oman. Also, your car registration documents, insurance, and NOC (if applicable) will be checked.

On the Hatta- Al Wajajah border, you have to drive for around 1 kilometer until you reach the Oman border post. Park your car and enter the building to get your Oman entry stamps there. If you already have Oman e-visas prearranged, it will save you time. Otherwise, you will have to fill in the immigration application form and make payments for the Oman visit visa on the spot.

IMPORTANT: Oman visa on arrival is subject to nationality. The good news is that an Oman visit visa might even be FREE if you meet certain criteria. Continue reading this post to find all the information about Oman visit visas for both UAE visitors and UAE residents.

Once your Oman visa is set and passports are stamped with Oman entry, you will be handed a small sheet of paper that indicates the number of passengers traveling to Oman. Keep it safe as you will have to show it when driving through the passport control gate and during a car inspection.

3. Pass Oman passport control

Once your Oman visa is sorted, proceed back to the car and drive to the passport checkpoint where you will be asked to show your passport with the Oman entry stamp.

4. Stop at the vehicle inspection point

After passing the passport control window, you will have to stop for a car inspection. The border control officer will inspect the interior and the boot of your car and if all is good, will stamp a small sheet of paper that you have earlier received at the Oman visa checkpoint. Keep it safe, as you will have to show it at the last checkpoint before entering Oman.

5. Pass the last checkpoint before entering Oman

After finishing your car inspection, you will drive a few hundred meters until you reach the last police checkpoint. Give the officer a small sheet of paper that was stamped at the car inspection place.

And that is it. Welcome to Oman!

How long does it take to cross the UAE-Oman border?

From my personal experience, with all the documents ready (printed e-visa, passports, and car documents in place), all the checking procedures, without queues (only a few vehicles at the border), it still takes almost an hour to pass Hatta-Al Wajajah border when driving from Dubai to Muscat. 

It is much faster (when there is no queue) at Al-Dhara (Khasab) border when travelling to Musandam, Oman. You can expect to spend around 30 minutes on Al-Dhara border.

Good to know : Public holidays and weekends are known to be notorious when it comes to queueing at UAE-Oman borders. Expect to spend at least a couple of hours at the border during peak times.

Driving back from Oman to the UAE

The procedure of returning to UAE from Oman by car is similar just in reverse. The only difference is that you do not have to pay any exit fees from Oman and the car inspection on the UAE border side is much stricter. I have driven from Muscat to Dubai with my car boot loaded with photography equipment and suitcases. The offers on the UAE side did a thorough check-up and asked many questions about what and why I was carrying.

Exiting Oman

On the way back to the UAE to Oman, you will be given a small piece of paper when crossing the Oman border (an exit stamp of some sort). Keep it safe as you will have to present it when driving through the next checkpoint on the UAE border side.

Arriving in the UAE

On the UAE side, you will again have to park your car and go to the immigration post (at the Hatta border it was a separate building for UAE residents and tourists, while GCC citizens could drive through the checkpoints.

In the arrival hall, you will have to show your passports. If you are a tourist returning back to the UAE, then your UAE visa will also be checked (refer to the Oman visa requirements section for more information).

Oman to Dubai vehicle inspection point

After UAE passport control, you will have to drive through an x-ray scan, and then stop at a dedicated checkpoint where the contents of your car will be inspected thoroughly.

Collect a stamped small piece of paper from the officer. You will have to hand it over at the last drive-through checkpoint window. And that is the last step.

Welcome back to the UAE!

UAE to Oman by road visa requirements

In this section, you will find all the necessary information about UAE to Oman by road visa requirements both for UAE visit visa holders and UAE residents.

Oman Visa for UAE residents traveling by road

Visa-free entry for uae residents visiting oman for less than 14 days.

According to the latest news , UAE expats and GCC residents are eligible for visa-free entry from UAE to Oman by road (and by air) if they are traveling to the Sultanate for less than 14 days. *

The other great news is that the former requirement for the UAE residency to be on a list of specific professions has been removed. UAE residents of all commercial professions are now eligible to enter Oman.

IMPORTANT: the UAE residency must be valid for at least 3 months prior to arrival to the Sultanate, while the passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

*I recently traveled from Dubai to Muscat by road via the Hatta-Al Wajajah border and encountered UAE residents who still had to pay 5 OMR (50 AED) for their visit visa. Those were Sri Lankan residents to be specific. Out of curiosity, I have asked officials at the border why not all UAE residents are getting visa-free entry. The officials explained that it depends on the nationality of each visitor. Also, not everyone is entitled to a visa on arrival. For example, Nigerians who are UAE residents are still required to fill in e-visa applications online, while Sri Lankans can get a visit visa at the border. I could not find a full list of specific requirements per country, but it is certain that EU, UK, US, Australia, Canada nationals who are residents in the UAE can travel visa-free to Oman.

Oman E-visa for UAE residents staying longer than 14 days

As a UAE resident, if you are traveling to Oman from UAE by road and planning to stay for longer than 14 days in the Sultanate, then you must apply for an Oman e-visa or get one at the border if your nationality is eligible. However, Oman authorities encourage us to obtain a visit Visa online to save time at the border.

You can apply for an Oman visa online on  Royal Oman Police’s official website here . Click on the “Apply for Tourist Visa” section and create an account.

Make sure to pick the correct visa type:

• As a GCC resident,  in most cases, you will need to fill in the form  29A GCC Resident Visa  valid for 30 days (unless you are looking to apply for a long-term multiple entry visa).
• 30-day Oman tourist visa for GCC residents costs 5 OMR (50 AED).

Dubai to Oman by road: entering Oman with the UAE visit visa (tourist)

As a tourist holding the UAE visit visa you either have to apply for an Oman e-visa or you can get it on arrival if your nationality is eligible. You may also be allowed to travel to Oman visa-free if your nationality falls under the Dubai-Oman Joint Visa countries ** list (see below for more info).

Oman e-visa for tourists in the UAE

• If you are traveling to Oman from Dubai by road holding a UAE tourist visa, and fall under G1** countries list , you can get a visa on arrival for 10 days which costs 10 OMR (100 AED) . If you intend to stay longer, then you should apply for a 26B visa online valid for 30 days which costs 20 OMR (200 AED) .
• Travelers who do not fall under the G1 countries list  must either be a spouse or a child of the G1 countries national to be able to apply online for an e-visa (choose 26F visa).
• If a traveler is not from the G1 countries list but they have a valid Schengen visa or a valid visa to one of the following countries (USA, UK, Canada, Australia or Japan) they can apply for 26M type of visa (if their country is in the list of allowed nationalities).
• 26F and 26B visas cost 20 OMR (200 AED) and allow 30 days stay in Oman.

In other cases, travellers might have to obtain an Oman visit visa via the Oman embassy in their country of residence. Alternatively can use visa application services on  ivisa .

IMPORTANT:  Passport holders who do not qualify for a UAE visa on arrival, must have a multiple-entry UAE tourist visa. Single-entry UAE tourist visa holders will not be allowed to enter Musandam. 

**G1 countries as per Royal Oman Police .  Europe:  Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Rep., Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Vatican, Ukraine.  South America:  Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Suriname, Uruguay, Venezuela.  Other Countries and Regions:  Australia, Brunei Dar al-Salam, Canada, French Guiana, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Lebanon, Macao, Special Administrative Region of China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Seychelles, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, United States, Islamic Republic of Iran, Russian Federation, People’s Republic of China, Republic of Kazakhstan

Passport validity

All passports must be valid for at least 6 months during your visit to Oman. 

Dubai/Oman Common visa for tourists in the UAE

21A Dubai/Oman Common visa  is a free Oman tourist visa on arrival available for UAE tourist visa holders who fall under a list of  Dubai-Oman Joint Visa countries** . The requirement for this visa is that your UAE tourist visa must be valid for at least 21 days before entering Oman. You must also enter Oman through the Hatta-Al Wajajah border.

However, I am not sure how many days you can stay in Oman with the Dubai-Oman Common visa. I would guess that up to 10.

**Dubai-Oman Joint Visa Countries:  Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Britain, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, USA, and Vatican City.

IMPORTANT INFO! You may find information online that you may not need a visa to travel to Oman if you are a passport holder of one of the 103 countries and regions that are exempt from entry visas for stays shorter than 14 days. This information is provided by Foreign Ministry of Oman .

I have contacted the Royal Police of Oman to clarify additional information about the above and it turned out that in order to enter visa free for 14 days you must provide valid hotel reservation, valid health insurance, and a return flight ticket . Thus, this type of visa is only applicable if you are traveling to Oman by air as opposed to driving from UAE.

Good to know: If you still have pending questions regarding visa requirements or types, you can always reach out to Royal Oman Police by email at [email protected] . I have communicated with them on several occasions and they are quite responsive.

Oman e-visa processing times

Oman e-visa processing times on average are 24 hours, but can take up to 4 working days. From my experience of applying several times, you can get an Oman visa in a few minutes, hours, or days. Therefore, apply a week before your trip to be on the safe side. It never took me longer than 5 days to receive an Oman e-visa. 

What if I do not get my e-visa on time before my trip? 

For UAE residents, you could still get a visit visa on the Oman border if your passport is eligible for a visa on arrival. If you are on a tourist visa in the UAE, you can get a regular Oman tourist visa on arrival. You must check beforehand if your passport is eligible for a visa on arrival. 

If you want to have all the paperwork done for you,  iVisa  offers hassle-free Oman visa-issuing services for an additional fee.

RELATED READS:

• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Check my Epic 7 Day Oman Road Trip Itinerary to get some inspiration and useful tips for planning your own road trip. 
• Make sure to check this Dubai to Salalah road trip planner if you are thinking of driving to Salalah.
• To plan your time in the capital of Oman, find out about The best things to do in Muscat: 1-3 days itinerary.

Oman travel regulations: vaccination, PCR test requirements, health insurance

UPDATE: All Covid-19 regulations for entering Oman have been lifted from May 2022. Please refer to Oman Air website to confirm. UAE has also lifted all COVID-19 related restrictions end of 2022.

While pandemic-related regulations have been lifted, it is still strongly advisable to have travel insurance . I always obtain one when traveling. You can get very affordable travel insurance from the Safety Wing. The other insurance provider of my choice is Heymondo . You can get a 5% discount using my link .

FAQ about traveling from Dubai to Oman by road

Are there gas stations on the highway driving from dubai to muscat.

A word of warning about the gas stations after entering Oman by car from the Hatta-Al-Wajajah border. Make sure you fill-up the tank immediately at the first petrol station you see in Oman. If you miss that one, there will be another 2 or 3 petrol stations recently opened on the new highway from Dubai to Muscat. Yet don’t drive with an empty tank as the distances in between the petrol stations are over 100 kilometers. Also, bring some snacks and plenty of water. The last time I drove past the highway, petrol stations only had petrol but the food store was still under construction.

Can I buy an Oman SIM card at the border?

You cannot purchase Oman sim card at the border (it used to be available at Hatta-Al-Wajajah border before). That means, you may have to use roaming for navigation or pre-download Google Maps until you reach Muscat, or Nizwa (depends where you are heading to). Oman Sim cards are available at bigger malls and Muscat Airport.

What is driving in Oman like?

Driving in Oman is easy, yet there are a few things you may want to know before driving in Oman. Check out my post about Driving in Oman.

UAE-Oman border crossing for expats 2023

Currently, there are 6 UAE-Oman border crossing open for expats, Hatta-Alwajajah, Mezyad-Hafeet , Al Dhara (Khasab), Dibba checkpoint, Khatam al Shiklah, and Khatmat-Milaha.

How much is Oman visa for UAE residents arriving by road?

UAE residents can enter Oman visa-free if they are traveling to Oman for less than 14 days. Otherwise, visit visa to Oman costs 5 OMR (50 AED) for UAE residents willing to stay up to 30 days in Oman.

Is Oman border open for UAE residents?

Yes, UAE-Oman borders are open for UAE residents except the Hatta-Al Madam which can only be used by GCC nationals.

Do Emiratis need visa to travel to Oman?

Citizens of GCC countries (the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) do not require visas to enter Oman.

Can UAE residents travel to Oman by car?

Yes, UAE residents can travel to Oman by car.

Can I go to Oman from UAE without visa?

Yes, for 14 days you can stay in Oman without visa if you are a UAE resident or a national of the approved list of countries.

How much is the exit fee from Dubai to Oman?

UAE exit fee is 35 AED plus 5% VAT per person.

Can I drive to Oman for visa change?

You can do a visa run through Oman by road. Hatta-Al-Wajajah border is the one people usually use for visa runs.

Do I need a 4WD to go to Oman? 

You will need a 4 WD in Oman if you are planning to drive steep narrow roads into the mountains or remote villages, unpaved roads, or deserts. However, roads in Oman are in excellent shape and you can still reach many highlights with a regular car. 

Also, note that many rental companies will not allow you to take a 4WD for off-roading (do it at your own risk basically). This kind of defeats the purpose if you are getting 4×4 for off-roading.

However, you would still benefit from 4WD if you only plan to use the paved road to reach Jebel Akhdar or some small mountain villages located deep in the mountains. It is compulsory to drive 4WD if you want to explore this Jebel Akhdar mountain peak. There are checkpoints, and for your own safety, it is not allowed to drive 2WD to Jebel Akhdar. 

RELATED READS:   Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.

Can I travel from Dubai to Oman by bus?

There is a bus from Dubai to Muscat operated by ‘ Al Khanjry Transport ‘. The one-way ticket costs 100 AED and the journey takes around 7-8 hours including border crossing.

Is there a train from Dubai to Oman?

Currently, there is no rain from Dubai to Oman. However, Etihad Rail has signed an agreement with Arsenale, and is building a luxury rail service running from Abu Dhabi through Liwa desert to the Omani border. Interestingly, there will be 15 luxury coaches that are currently being produced in Puglia and Sicily, Italy.

UAE – Oman Border Map

I hope this information is helpful, and please do not hesitate to get in touch or comment below if you have any questions or updates regarding going from UAE to Oman by road. I will keep this post updated if any changes happen.

I hope you are enjoying my free travel guides & tips. If yes, please consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee so I can continue creating more useful content from my favorite coffee shop in town. Thanks!

More Oman travel guides

• Plan your Oman visit with my 1-week Oman road trip itinerary .
• Starting your Oman journey in Oman’s capital Muscat? Here are  The best things to do in Muscat: itinerary for 1-3 days .
• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my  Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Salalah route with my  Ultimate Salalah Itinerary: the best things to do in Dhofar region, Oman.
• Plan a perfect Musandam from Dubai road trip with my detailed Musandam Travel Guide .
• Plan your visit to Wadi Shab-one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Oman .

Oman travel essentials

• Rent a car : The best way to explore Oman is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• Before You Go: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• Sleep: book your ideal accommodation on Booking .
• Travel insurance : get affordable travel insurance in Oman (including COVID-19 coverage) for short and long long-term travel with SafetyWing or Heymondo (5% discount with my link).
• Guided tours: book the best-rated guided tours in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport. Omantel provides the best coverage.
• Flight got canceled or delayed? You might receive compensation if you depart from an EU country. Consult and receive assistance from AirHelp or Skycop if you are eligible for compensation.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

78 Comments

Thank you for putting each precise detail about the travel to Oman.

I am looking to travel to Oman by road from Dubai and would mostly be taking the Hatta – Al Wajajah Border. My travel date is on 19th February, 2022. As per the information you provided, it seems the Hatta – Al Wajajah border is currently open. However, given the frequent changes to the land border accessibility due to Covid, I would like to know whether the border is open just before I start the travel.

Do you have any official contact number using which I can get the information?

Hi Shivam, May I know if this border is still open ? Is it open for expatriates? I was looking at Google maps and I could see its mentioned as permanently closed. Can you please confirm as I would like to travel in the coming weekend.

Hi Shivam, I am glad you found the information on this post helpful. Yes, as of the date of writing, Hatta- Wajajah border is open. I do not have the contact number of the border, but when I googled, I got these ones listed +971 4 852 1002 and 800 5111. Never tried calling so cannot comment, maybe you can share your experience later. Hopefully the borders stay open :)

Thank you for this information. So much details takes all the confusion out of travelling. I had a question… I am flying to the uae on a visit visa and want to travel to oman by roaf for a week and then fly out. Applied for evisa for both countries. According to your post… I should take the Hatta border… tourist are allowed to use this border along with residents and citizen… is there a separate entrance for tourists? Would really appreciate some help and any contact number for information on this in oman.

hi there, thanks for the informative blog. can I ask how much is the car insurance and can I get it from the border as well?

Which is nearby border if I’m traveling from Dubai to Salalah

I am in need of a border run for a visa renewal for a colleague. We will drive from Abu Dhabi, can we exit the UAE, enter Oman, renew the visa all within the same day, or do we need to stay in Oman for at least a day to renew it? If it’s all in a day, can I use the same UAE PCR test to exit and enter the UAE? Thank you.

Is it required to stay overnight in Oman to do the visa run? Or can we exit the UAE, do the Oman visa process and enter the UAE back all in the same day? Thank you.

Hi, great and very detailed information. Thank you for helping with this amazing data. I am interested to go in that area where there is no requirements (eg visa, boarder permit). Is this Madha? Can I drive directly there? Is any document which I need? Anything which can be done in that area?

Hi Danielle, you don’t need any permit or visa to enter Madha. There is no border or post control. The only difference you may notice will be Oman plate number and the signal of your mobile network may disappear or switch to roaming.

Hi, Curious Traveller, regarding visa run, it depends which passport you hold, if that is the procedure you can do. But those people who are allowed to do visa runs, don’t need to stay in Oman, they just cross the border and come back immediately. PCR should be valid, at least it was last month for 14 days.. Try contacting some of those companies who help with visa runs, they should know all the latest info.

Dear Ausra,

Great information which is really helping me to plan my trip probably in a week from now. I am driving my friend’s car, therefore, would like to know what kind of NOC is required? Is there any specific format?

Secondly, Are you sure if travel insurance is required ? As few of my friends travelled recently to Oman from UAE but they didn’t told me anything about this requirement.

In any case what is the cost of travel insurance for a month?

Regards Sid

Hi Shoaib, I am glad you find this information helpful. Regarding NOC format, I honestly don’t know, try calling the insurance company and ask for advice, or maybe RTA. I am guessing it is just a written printed and signed form stating all the details of the owner and the person borrowing the car, car details, and saying that the owner does not object to their car being driven by that person, contact details of both parties as well. Regarding travel insurance, that is information officially stated across many sources, such as airlines and news sites. I was not asked at the border for health insurance, but this is one of the requirements (not sure why for a month though, maybe because of the visit visa length). The cheapest option so far is with Safety Wing- there is a link to it in this post if you scroll up. The price will be defined according to your age (you will be able to see it once you fill out the details), it is around 40 USD for a month.

Hi, I want to travel from Muscat to Musandam by car and then further to Dubai. First what kind of visas do I need as I will re-enter oman and also UAE? Second what is the best option for PCR-testing there? Can I do it at the border or should I do it in Muscat? Kind regards

Hi Geraldine, depending on your residency visa, and/or passport (not sure if you are a tourist to both countries or a resident of one of them), you will need visit visas for UAE and Oman (maybe you passport allows visa on arrival which makes things simple). If you don’t have multiple entry visas, you will have to get UAE visa to enter UAE first, and then Oman visa again to enter Musandam. On the way back from Musandam, you again have to get UAE visa, and the same applies to Oman visa if you are traveling back to Muscat. You must check entry rules according to your passport. Oman visa can be easily obtained online in advance. UAE, I am not sure as I am a resident of UAE. Regarding PCR, UAE requires it to be not more than 48 hours old, while Oman – not more 72 hours old. You would have to check if you can use the same PCR test that you have done in Oman to go to UAE and then to Musandam (I would believe you should be able to). However, I don’t know if you can do PCR at the border. I would better do it in Muscat if I was you. Note that you may have to do another PCR in Musandam (Khasab most likely) to go back to UAE. And hopefully, you can use the same result to go back to Muscat if it is within 72 hours. Let me know how it goes once you have done your trip.

Hi Shabeena, yes Hatta border which is called Al Wajajah, is open for everyone and there are no separate entrances- the same way and entrance for both citizens and residents. Google shares this number for Oman side Hatta border: +968 26 849920 I never called borders before so not sure how it works, but you are welcome to try.

Hi, I am planning to travel Oman with my family (wife & 3 kids) kids ages are 14, 10, and 3 years. my car is a leased car from bank and insurance has Oman cover and medical insurance has covid cover.

Please confirm the following, which will help me to travel without any hassle; 1. Exit fee from UAE (AED 35) per passport 2. Still I need travel insurance 3. Still I need to get Orange Card 4. I need to get NOC from Bank or it is fine to go without the same 5. what age is exempted from PCR & Vaccination 6. Is there any online fee to register on travel site

Hi Ali, answering yur questions below: 1. Exit fee is per person 2. According to official requirements, yes 3. I believe so, insurance company will provide it free of charge (it was our case- we had cover,they just issued the paper) 4. Kindly ask the bank, but when I traveled with my leased car years ago, I didn’t have NOC from the bank and it was fine. 5. I do not know the exact age, but I have heard small kids are. 6. Registering on the travel site is freem just have all you pcr test results and vaccine papers ready to be uploaded (I believe you refer the Oman website for travel registration)

Hello. I am traveling from London to Dubai then by car to zighy bay. Have the pcr rules changed now to 48 hours rather than 14 days? I’m worried about testing positive whilst at zighy bay when taking the pcr in order to travel back to Dubai. I expect there will be lots of kids at hotel who haven’t been vaccinated or tested as under 12. Do you know what would happen to me and my family if I did test positive?

Hi Rachel, I haven’t heard or seen articles about changes so far. The best would be to ask the hotel in Zighy Bay, they must be aware of the most recent rules. In the unlucky scenario, if the test comes out positive, you would have to quarantine in Oman most likely.

hi my wife and 3 kids are uk citizen and would like to have visa run to oman via road . could you please guide more about it . as they will get 30days more visa to stay in uae.. after having an in out from uae. need your kind advise

Hi Ahmed, I am not fully aware on visa run process as I have never done it before. However, I have heard that certain nationalities just have to cross Oman border and drive in back again. They don’t even need to stay in Oman. It is done as quickly as half a day almost. Also, there used to be companies you take people by bus for visa run purposes for some fee, not sure if they still around though.

Thanks for the detailed information.

Am travelling to Musandam with my 5 year old daughter tomorrow — does she require a PCR test as well?

Regards, Burzis

Hi Burzis, kids do not need PCR test according to Oman Air covid regulations.

Hi Thanks for very concise details about a road trip from Dubai to Oman.

I have 2 questions: 1. If I have a PCR test done in Dubai 72 hours before arriving to Oman, can I use the same test to re-enter the UAE? Or do I have to do another test in Mussandam?

2. When you say we need travel insurance, is this just medical insurance? Our policy covers us internationally.

Hi Ruth, answering your questions below: 1. You can use the same test to come back to Dubai, it will be valid for 14 days (somebody went to Oman and back using the same test just a week ago, so the same procedure is still in place). 2. Yes, it is medical insurance covering covid-19. Enjoy your trip!

This post was so helpful- I planned my entire trip following this- thanks a lot- God bless

This is such a helpful forum, thanks everybody!

However I still have a question. Is there maybe someone who recently crossed the Mezyad border crossing (from Oman to UAE) and if so, could you please tell if they accept 14 day pcr test or not?

Hi Essie, someone I know crossed Hatta border a couple of weeks ago, and 14 days PCR was valid. However, the Mezyad border is part of Abu Dhabi emirate, and they have different rules when it comes to PCR validity. Therefore it’s worth checking the latest rules for entering Abu Dhabi.

Can i cross mazyad border by walking.. i have all the documents.. because my family will wait me in the oman side.. is it possible to go by walking

Hi Shabeer, I believe you should be able to walk through the border, but I do not know 100%. The best is to call the border and ask if this is allowed. Also, check the distance between UAE and Oman border posts. The Mezyad border seems to be less than 2 km between the checkpoints, but others, like Hatta Al Wajajah or Khatam Al Shiklah are far away from each other (not a walking distance).

I am Indian citizen working in UAE with UAE residence. I am planning to travel through Khatmat Al Shikla border to Oman and same day planning to visit back to UAE (Fujairah) through Khatmat Malahah border. Is this possible?

Hi Mohammed, yes, you can enter Oman through one border and leave through the other border. Both are open as far as I know.

Great detailed information. Thank you. Any idea how much the visa for Oman costs? Also what are some interesting 1 day things to do in Oman considering i will enter from Hatta Al Wajajah border.

Dear Sharmista, please read my post were I mention visa costs and link to where to get the visa from. Also, please visit my blog post about 7 days Oman itinerary (link shared at the end of this post) where you can find many awesome things to do in Oman. In one day your best bet is to visit Musandam instead of mainland Oman. But if you are going to mainland Oman through Hatta border, then you can visit Muscat. Check my post about what to do in Muscat.

Hi, Thank you for compiling this very useful information. Would it be possible to take up this trip during April (Ramadan). Also would it be possible for a non vaccinated ( senior citizen) to do this trip with a PCR negative result.

Hi Abraham, you can travel to Oman during Ramadan as well, the only thing that may not be as pleasant is the hot weather. Regarding unvaccinated travelers, I am not sure what would be the procedure- I could not find any precise online information about this matter. But I believe with a negative PCR test you can enter. As far as I have heard, quarantine was also removed. The best would be to call Oman Airlines, or Oman immigration and check with them as they would have the exact latest updates.

This is indeed a great blog with clear guidelines for the new travelers – Thank you!

Wonderful blog.. have visited oman many times and still its confusing. Esp now with the covid rules. Quick question is Medical insurance mandatory for 30days?

Hi Johnson, thank you. Regarding medical insurance, this is information provided on the Omanair website as one of the entry requirements.

Thank you Ausra, this is a very good guide travelling to oman.

i have 1 question. There used to be a short term 10-days tourist visa for 5 OMR (13 USD) available to purchase at the border. do you know if this is available again in the border?

Hi Janijoy, I am not sure about this. If you have travelled and already find out, can you please let me know if you managed to get one? Indeed it was useful, but now I was only seeing option for 20 OMR 30 days tourist visa online.

Hi, I am planning to travel from Oman to UAE on coming week by road. My passport validity only 5 month. There is any issue for this?

Hi Basher, you must check the official requirements on the Oman visa website. If it states that passport validity must be more than 5 months (usually it is 6 ), then you might have a problem.

Hi, I’m planning to visit Oman for 3 days. still do i need to get COVID-19 covered (Insurance)? please advise

Hi Yousef, insurance requirement is provided by Oman air website and it does for some reason require one month coverage.

I am planning to travel with my family from dubai to oman. I want to know if there will be any stay area or restrooms on the way.

Hi Usama, if you are travelling from Hatta border to Muscat, take the old road that is closer to the coats- there are plenty of restaurants along the way. Ehile the newer and a bit faster road going to Muscat doesn’t even have petrol stations (at least we haven’t seen any for many kilometer after crossing the border).

What is nearest border from Dubai to salalah

Hi, the nearest border from Dubai is Hatta Alwajajah. However, for the shortest drive to Salalah, you have to take Mezyat (Hafeet) border in Al Ain. Please refer to my detailed post about driving from Salalah to Dubai: https://www.theroadreel.com/dubai-to-salalah-road-trip/

I want Visa run through mazeyad borders with my wife and 2 children,which documents required, and PCR test required for both adult and child?

Hi Ibrahim, I believe PCR for children under a certain age is not required (16 and below, but please check online on Omanair website for exact age)

I need to know if I’m traveling with company car do I need to get NOC.

Hi Aby, you will need NOC if car is not under your name

HI Ausra, if I travel 10 June from Abu Dhabi to Oman , please tell me how much fees for border cross and others .

Hi, thank you for such a detailed and informative post. Can you please advise if its better to use UAE issued Debit/Credit card in Oman or do we need to carry Omani Riyal purchased from some Money Exchange in UAE before travel? Thanks.

The information here was so helpful and accurate during our trip to Musandam through Al Dhara border post. I’m sure this will assist any traveler who has a plan to visit alone or with a group.

Thanks Dilhan, I am glad it was useful to you!

I have visit visas of Oman and UAE. I m traveling from India to Muscut, staying 4 days then I m planning to travel via Road to the UAE. As one of my friend he is expat of Dubai having UAE residence visa, own car. Can I travel to UAE from Wajjah Hatta Border using my Tourist Visa UAE.

Please advise.

Hi Azeemuddin, you can travel to UAE crossing Wajajah Hatta Border using your UAE Tourist Visa.

Hi, is there any minimum period of Mulkiya (car registration) validity checked at the border ? Can I still travel to Oman for visa run if my mulkiya is valid for one week only ?

Hi, is there any minimum mulkiya validity checked at the border ?

Hi Ihsan, not that I have heard of, please let us know if you find out otherwise.

Do you have any details on the minimum registration validity while traveling to Oman by road? Please let me know. Thanks

Hello, great info. I need advise, I have residence visa in oman and it’s still active till sept, but now I’m in uae and with a residence visa. Can I go back at oman without hassle and what are the needed documents to bring along with.. I’ll go Thru border by road and come back again to uae after holidays

Hi Jonrey, please contact immigration for this matter to give you a clear answer. I can only guess that if your Oman residency has not been canceled, you should be able to travel, but I am not sure how you can have two valid residencies at the same time?

I just renewed my vehicle registration on 12-July and wait for physical registration card. Now I plan for a week to Oman starting from 16 July. So will there be issue with electronic copy of registration at border crossing ?

Prasad, I believe electronic registration should be valid, make sure you also have insurance for driving in Oman (orange card), or you can purchase one at the border as well.

Hi Ausra, Great post. Thankyou. I’m travelling to Zighy Bay this weekend by car from Dubai and my insurance does not have Oman presently covered in the policy. I was advised by my broker that I can purchase an Orange Card at the border at Dibba Corniche for aprox AED100. Is this correct? I don’t want to be left disappointed at the border because we do not have the necessary documentation.

I do not have time to read all the comments, so sorry if this has been addressed already.

I am trying to figure out the reverse: how does it work and how easy is it to go from the Musandam peninsula in Oman to Dubai (UAE) for foreigners (French and American) via the Al Dharah border? Can we get a visa on arrival for the UAE? Do we need to do it in advance?

Hello Bloubliu,

if you are French and American passport holders, you both can get a UAE visa on arrival at the border. You can read more info about border procedures when traveling to and back from Musandam to Dubai here: https://www.theroadreel.com/things-to-do-in-musandam-from-dubai-road-trip/

Can u send me the sample or tell the details need in noc for taking friend car to Oman…. Is it obtained from any govt authority?

Hi Nadheer, I believe it is a free form you ask your friend to write to you acknowledging that you can take his/her car through the border. Make sure to include your friends’ signature and passport copy or emirates id copy.

Hi, dear Ausra; I had a few questions for you to improve my trip I have Iranian nationality. For myself, my wife and my daughter who is under 5 years old, I got a multi-Dubai tourist visa with a two-month stay. I also got a 10-day Oman tourist visa online for myself and my family. questions: 1.Can I rent a car from Dubai to travel from Dubai to Muscat and back? What documents should I receive from the car rental agency? What fees do I have to pay? 2.Is travel insurance mandatory for me and my family? If forced, should I buy insurance from the two sites you introduced? 3.Are the departure fees and UAE taxes included for tourists? 4.Is it necessary to register and fill out the travel form? If forced, from which site should I apply? And that you have a very good site with lots of content

hi – very helpfull page. Can someone recommend me a car rental company in abu dhabi which allows crossing the border ? thanks kai

Information is depth and in simple language. Thanks for this detail. Almost everything is clear now.

I just wants to inquire that i have 1800 CC 2WD Sedan car. Is this ok to travel to Muscat, What about road/journey to the muscat?

If i want to travel to any mountain, Not Jebel Akhdar, Can i go with this car.

Hi Mohammad,

You can drive 2WD to Muscat, the road is highway. You might be able to go to some mountains, where it is paved, but not extreme offroad.

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