Traveling from Dubai (or any Emirate) to Oman by road offers the ideal opportunity to explore the Sultanate. The roads in both the UAE and Oman are exceptionally well-maintained, making the drive from Dubai to Muscat or other destinations in Oman smooth and enjoyable.
For UAE residents or tourists in Dubai, embarking on a road trip to Oman opens up exciting possibilities. Beyond Muscat, you can easily venture to nearby Musandam, embark on a longer journey to Salalah, or explore other regions in Oman, whether for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
The distance from Dubai to Muscat spans about 500 kilometers and takes around 5 hours by car, but the journey is scenic and rewarding. Along the route, travelers are treated to stunning views of the Hajar mountains, picturesque Gulf of Oman coastline, and vast desert landscapes. Plus, with affordable petrol prices in both the UAE and Oman, a road trip to Oman is not only enjoyable but budget-friendly.
If you're already in Oman and contemplating renting a car for your travels, my guide on renting a car and driving in Oman will be invaluable.
Embark on an unforgettable road journey from Dubai to Oman, exploring the beauty and diversity of the Arabian Peninsula. This guide covers everything you need to know for your adventure, including visa requirements, recommended routes, estimated travel expenses, must-visit attractions along the way, and essential immigration procedures. Whether you're a resident or a visitor in Dubai, discover the allure of neighboring Oman through this comprehensive road trip experience. Get ready to hit the road and delve into a captivating cross-border exploration!
-----Checklist for Driving from UAE to Oman by Car-----
1. You can either rent a car or drive your own vehicle from Dubai to Oman.
2. Essential Documents:
• Car registration card (Mulkiya)
• Oman car insurance (orange card)
• Valid driver’s license
3. International Driving Permit: Tourists renting a car in the UAE might need an International Driving Permit.
4. NOC Certificate: Obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for rental or borrowed/leased cars.
5. Certificate for Dubai-registered Vehicles: UAE expats with Dubai-registered vehicles need a Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes.
6. Oman Tourist Visa: Obtain an Oman tourist visa online or at the border based on your nationality.
7. Passport Requirement: You'll need a valid passport to enter Oman from the UAE by road.
8. Passport Validity:
• For UAE visitors traveling to Oman: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the visa issue date.
• For UAE expats traveling from Dubai to Oman: Your UAE residency should be valid for at least 3 months, and your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after the visa issue date.
9. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind during your trip to Oman.
-----Route Options for Driving from Dubai to Oman-----
When driving from Dubai to Oman, you have multiple route options to choose from. The two countries have several border crossings, but only specific ones are accessible to tourists and non-GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) citizens. Among these, three primary crossings are most relevant. Your choice of crossing will depend on your starting point in Dubai and your destination in Oman.
1. Hatta – Al Wajajah border crossing (Closest Border Crossing to Dubai)
The nearest border crossing to Dubai is just 140 km away, taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach. This is also the fastest route from Sharjah to Oman by road.
Recommended Route, Distance and Time: Avoid the Al Madam border crossing on the E44 road, as it is only open to GCC citizens. Instead, take the E102 highway, bypassing the small Omani enclave in the UAE, and join the E44 to cross the border at Hatta/Al Wajajah. After exiting the UAE, drive 3 km to the Omani immigration post. From there, it is 85 km to Sohar (about 1 hour) and 310 km to Muscat (about 3.5 hours). The total distance from Dubai to Muscat is 450 km, and the journey should take between 5 to 6 hours, assuming a smooth border crossing.
2. Meyzad – Hafeet border crossing (Unique and Scenic Option for Driving from Dubai to Oman)
The Mezyad border crossing offers a unique and scenic option for driving from Dubai to Oman, allowing you to experience a different part of the UAE. This route is ideal if you're planning to visit destinations in central or southern Oman, such as Nizwa or Jebel Shams.
Journey Through Al Ain: Located just beyond Al Ain, the largest inland city in the UAE, the Mezyad crossing is 160 kilometers from Dubai via the E66, taking about 2 hours to reach. Al Ain, known as the “Garden City,” is a beautiful oasis in the desert with lush greenery and tree-lined avenues, making it a worthwhile stop if you have the time.
Ideal for Travelers from Abu Dhabi: For those coming from Abu Dhabi, the Mezyad crossing is also convenient, situated 190 kilometers away and taking approximately 2 hours to reach. The border formalities here are the same as those for driving from Dubai to Oman.
3. Khatm Al Shiklah border crossing (An Alternative Near Al Ain)
The Khatam Al Shikla border crossing, another option near Al Ain, offers a similar travel time to the Mezyad crossing. However, it has a unique layout that sets it apart.
Border Post Distances: Unlike Mezyad, the UAE and Oman border posts at Khatam Al Shikla are nearly 30 kilometers apart. After being stamped out of the UAE, you need to drive this distance to reach the Omani border post. This can be confusing, as it may feel like you’ve entered Oman without proper documentation.
Pros and Cons: This crossing is not ideal for those making a quick UAE visa run, due to the distance between the border posts. However, it is generally less crowded than other crossings, which can make for a faster overall experience.
4. Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam - Westside coastal Khasab road
If you're heading to Khasab in the Musandam Peninsula, use the Al Dhara border crossing on the west side.
Convenient Location and Travel Times: Situated at the northern tip of Ras al Khaimah, the Al Dhara border post connects the UAE to Oman’s Musandam Governorate on the west side. The drive to the Musandam Al Dhara border takes about 2 hours from Dubai and approximately 3.5 hours from Abu Dhabi.
5. Dibba checkpoint – Musandam East coast (north of Fujeirah Emirate)
For East Musandam Travel: Use the Dibba checkpoint if you're heading to the eastern side of Musandam, Oman.
Key Details
• Checkpoint Type: Military checkpoint (UAE side only).
• Two Checkpoints: One for GCC citizens and another for tourists/GCC residents.
• Visa-Free Entry
-Eligible Stays: Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort, Dibba Resort, or via a tour operator.
-Entry Permit: Arranged by the hotel or tour operator.
• For Adventurers
-Activities: Hiking in Wadi Khub al Shamzi or mountain biking.
• Visa: Use an Oman visit visa to cross.
6. Khatmat Malaha Border Post in Kalba (Eastern Sharjah, Gulf of Oman side)
Suitable for East UAE Travelers: If you're driving from Fujairah or Kalba (a town under the Sharjah Emirate) on the east side of the UAE, consider using the Khatmat Malaha border crossing.
Important Note: While this border crossing is typically open to GCC residents, there have been reports of restrictions for rental cars, even with necessary documentation like NOC and insurance. In such cases, travelers may be redirected to the Hatta border.
Alternative Recommendation: For tourists traveling from Fujairah to Oman, it's advisable to head directly to the Hatta-Al Wajajah border crossing for a smoother experience.
-----UAE to Oman Border Crossing Formalities-----
The road crossings between the UAE and Oman are generally straightforward and hassle-free. However, a few formalities need to be observed for a seamless journey.
• Immigration and Customs Process: When driving from the UAE to Oman, you'll need to fill out an immigration form. Customs officials might also inspect your vehicle. To avoid complications, ensure there’s no visible evidence of alcohol in your car.
• Border Crossing Time Estimates: The time required for border formalities varies based on traffic. Weekends (Friday-Saturday) and public holidays often see heavy traffic, especially from Dubai to Oman, which can lead to long queues. Plan your travel during weekdays to potentially reduce waiting time, which can range from 15 minutes to 2 hours.
• Exit Fees and Payment Options: At the UAE border, an exit fee of 35 AED is required. While card payments are usually accepted, it’s wise to carry cash as a backup. There is no exit fee when leaving Oman.
-----Traveling from Dubai to Oman by road-----
--Driving Your Own Car from UAE to Oman--
Certainly, as a resident of the UAE, you have the option to drive your own car from Dubai to Oman. Below are the documents needed and the procedure to follow.
Documents Needed:
• Driver’s License
• Car Registration Card (Mulkiya)
• Orange Card - This serves as your car insurance policy specifically for driving in Oman.
• Certificate for Vehicles Registered in Dubai - This certificate is required for using the vehicle outside the UAE for tourism purposes.
How to obtain an orange card for Oman: To drive your car from the UAE to Oman, you'll need an orange card from your insurance company. This card acts as your car insurance in Oman and is necessary for travel in GAIF (General Arab Insurance Federation) countries like Oman. If your policy already covers Oman, you'll receive the card for free. Otherwise, you can request coverage for Oman and get the card for an extra fee. Remember to contact your insurance company a few days before your trip to arrange for the orange card.
Orange Card Processing Time: It typically takes one day to receive the orange card via email from the insurance company. However, if you need to collect it in person, it may take a couple of days. It is best to call your insurance company to get all the details about the orange card processing times and costs.
Getting Oman Car Insurance at the UAE-Oman Border: If you're traveling from the UAE to Oman by road and overlooked obtaining the orange card, there's a convenient solution. You can secure a car insurance policy specifically for driving in Oman right at the border. As per recent details, the cost is 105 AED for a minimum coverage period of 5 days. This option ensures hassle-free travel without the need for prior arrangements.
Please Note: When you buy an orange card at the UAE-Oman border, it only covers damages you cause to third parties in GAIF member countries, including Oman. This means any damages to your own car will not be covered.
Driving License: As a UAE resident, you can drive in Oman using your UAE driving license.
--Certificate to Use a Dubai-Registered Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism--
If you're driving a Dubai-registered vehicle to Oman, the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) requires you to obtain a certificate to use the vehicle outside the UAE for tourism purposes.
Documents Required:
• Original Emirates ID
• NOC from the Automobile & Touring Club of the UAE (for UAE expats; not required for GCC citizens)
Cost: The service costs 170 AED.
Application Process: You need to apply for this certificate at one of the RTA centers, as online applications are not available. For more information, visit the RTA website.
--Driving a Borrowed or Leased Car from UAE to Oman--
If you plan to drive a borrowed or leased car from the UAE to Oman, certain documentation and procedures are necessary to ensure a smooth border crossing.
Required Documents:
• No Objection Certificate (NOC): You must have a NOC from the car owner. This is a written permission allowing you to drive their car across the UAE-Oman border. The NOC should be in a free-form letter format and include:
-Owner’s name
-Emirates ID (EID) number
-Residency visa number
-Passport number
-Statement of no objection to you driving the car to Oman, including your name
-Photocopy of the car owner’s ID
• Car Registration Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary registration documents for the car.
• Insurance Covering Oman (Orange Card): Obtain insurance that covers driving in Oman, often referred to as an orange card.
• Certificate to Use the Vehicle Outside the UAE for Tourism Purposes: This certificate is recommended, especially if you are borrowing a Dubai-registered car (Details mentioned above).
--Driving a Rental Car from Dubai to Oman--
You can take a rental car from the UAE to Oman. Before renting, confirm that the rental agency allows cross-border travel to Oman. On platforms like Discovercars and Rentalcars, you can check the cross-border policy under Rental Conditions to see if driving to Oman is permitted.
Car Rental Companies in UAE Allowing Travel to Oman: Autostrad, Dollar, Avis, SIXT. These companies permit taking rental cars from Dubai to Oman and can be booked through Discovercars and Rentalcars, often at a lower cost than booking directly.
Required Documents to Drive a Rental Car from Dubai to Oman
To drive a rental car from the UAE to Oman, ensure you have the following documents:
• Driver’s License: Must be in the name of the person who rented the car.
• Car Registration Card (Mulkiya).
• Car Insurance Policy for Oman: Issued by the rental company.• No Objection Certificate (NOC): One of the crucial documents needed is a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the rental agency. Contact the rental company at least 2-4 days before your trip to request this document. You'll need to provide your driver’s license and passport copy. Note that not all vehicles in the rental fleet may be permitted for travel to Oman, so verify if your chosen vehicle is eligible.
Car Insurance Policy for Oman for Rental Cars
You must purchase an additional car insurance policy for Oman from the rental company. Insurance bought elsewhere is not valid, and you cannot buy Oman insurance at the border for rental cars. The cost of this insurance is typically bundled with the NOC issuance fee and varies by company.
Sample Costs (from Avis):
1 to 3 Days: 450 AED + 100 AED per additional day
7 Days: 750 AED + 100 AED per additional day
1 Month: 1500 AED + 100 AED per additional day
You will receive the NOC and insurance documents when you pick up the rental car. Keep these documents handy to show at the border if required.
Additional Costs: Be aware that most rental agreements include a mileage cap of around 200-250 km per day. Exceeding this limit will incur additional charges, typically around 1 AED per extra kilometer. Given Oman's larger size compared to the UAE, it's easy to exceed the mileage allowance on a trip from Dubai to Oman. Plan your travel accordingly to avoid extra costs.
-----New Dubai RTA Rule (Updated December 2023)-----
In December 2023, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) implemented a new regulation mandating a "tourism certificate" for driving Dubai-registered vehicles outside the UAE.
To acquire this RTA approval, follow these steps:
• Prepare Required Documents: Gather your Emirates ID or passport, vehicle registration card, proof of ownership or NOC (if applicable), and company documents (for corporate-owned vehicles).
• Visit an RTA Service Centre: Take your documents to any RTA Customer Happiness Centre or Vehicle Registration and Inspection Centre in Dubai.
• Submit Documents and Pay Fees: Present your paperwork at the front desk and pay the service fees, typically around 170 AED for most vehicles.
• Obtain the Tourism Certificate: Upon completion, receive the tourism certificate from the centre.
-----Visa Requirements for Traveling by Road from UAE to Oman-----
This section provides essential information on visa requirements for traveling by road from the UAE to Oman, applicable to both UAE visit visa holders and residents.
Oman Visa for UAE residents: UAE and GCC residents can enter Oman visa-free for visits of less than 14 days, whether traveling by road or air.
Requirements for Visa-Free Entry to Oman:
• UAE residency must be valid for at least 3 months prior to arrival.
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Rule for Paying Visit Visa Fees at the Border:
• Visa Requirements Vary by Nationality: Not all UAE residents are eligible for visa-free entry to Oman.
• Visa Fee: Some nationalities, such as Sri Lankans, may need to pay a visit visa fee of 5 OMR (50 AED) at the border.
• E-Visa Applications: Certain nationalities, like Nigerians, must complete e-visa applications online prior to arrival.
• Visa-Free Entry: Nationals from the EU, UK, US, Australia, and Canada who are UAE residents can travel visa-free to Oman.
-----Oman E-Visa Requirements for UAE Residents Staying Longer Than 14 Days-----
If you're a UAE resident planning to travel to Oman by road and stay for more than 14 days, you need to apply for an Oman e-visa. Although you can get a visa at the border if your nationality allows, it's recommended to apply online to save time.
--How to Apply for an Oman E-Visa--
• Visit the Royal Oman Police Website: Go to the official website and click on the “Apply for Tourist Visa” section.
• Create an Account: Set up your account to begin the application process.
• Choose the Right Visa Type: As a GCC resident, you will likely need the form 29A GCC Resident Visa, valid for 30 days. For longer stays or multiple entries, different visa types may be required.
• Choose your visa type
• Attach all the documents.
• Cost: A 30-day Oman tourist visa for GCC residents costs 5 OMR (50 AED).
--How to Check Your Oman Visa Status--
To check your Oman visa status, follow these steps on the Royal Oman Police website:
• Enter Details: Input your web application number, passport number, issuing country, and the Captcha code.
• Submit: Click "Submit" to view your visa status on the next page.
-----Entering Oman with UAE Visit Visa (Tourist)------
Traveling from Dubai to Oman by road with a UAE tourist visa? Here's what you need to know:
• Oman E-Visa for Tourists: If you're from certain countries listed under G1, you can get a visa on arrival for 10 days at the cost of 10 OMR (100 AED). For longer stays, apply online for a 26B visa, valid for 30 days, costing 20 OMR (200 AED).
• Visa Application Options: If you're not from G1 countries, you may apply for a visa online if you're a spouse or child of a G1 national (26F visa). Alternatively, if you have a valid Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or Japan visa, you can apply for a 26M visa.
• Additional Options: If none of the above apply, you may need to obtain an Oman visit visa through the embassy in your country of residence or use visa application services like ivisa.
-----Dubai/Oman Common Visa for Tourists in the UAE-----
The 21A Dubai/Oman Common Visa is a free tourist visa on arrival in Oman for UAE tourist visa holders from specific Dubai-Oman Joint Visa countries. To qualify, your UAE tourist visa must be valid for at least 21 days before entering Oman, and you must enter through the Hatta-Al Wajajah border.
--Processing times for Oman e-visas--
It typically range from 24 hours to 4 working days on average. However, based on personal experience, visas can be obtained in just minutes, hours, or a few days. To ensure a smooth process, it's advisable to apply at least a week before your trip, although it's rare for the processing time to exceed 5 days.
-----UAE to Oman Border Crossing Guide by Car------
1. Pay UAE Exit Fee: At the first drive-through counter on the UAE side of the UAE-Oman border, you will need to pay an exit fee of 35 AED plus 5% VAT per person. After paying, collect the receipt and present it along with your passports at the next window to receive an exit stamp.
Payment can be made in cash or by card, though it’s advisable to have cash (UAE dirhams) on hand just in case. Remember, the 35 AED exit fee per person is mandatory for all land exits from the UAE to Oman, and you must pay it to get your passport exit stamp.
2. Present Your Oman Visit Visa or Obtain Visa on Arrival and Get Entry Stamp: After exiting the UAE, proceed to the Oman visa check and entry stamp process. Present your Oman visit visa, or obtain a visa on arrival if eligible based on your nationality. Your car registration documents, insurance, and NOC (if applicable) will also be checked. Note that visa on arrival availability and fees depend on your nationality, and some visitors may qualify for a free visa under certain conditions.
Once your Oman visa is approved and your passport is stamped, you will receive a small sheet of paper indicating the number of passengers in your vehicle. Keep this paper safe, as you will need to show it at the passport control gate and during the car inspection.
3. Pass Oman Passport Control: After obtaining the Oman entry stamp, return to your car and drive to the passport checkpoint to show your stamped passport.
4. Stop at the Vehicle Inspection Point: After passing the passport control window, you must stop for a car inspection. A border control officer will inspect the interior and boot of your car. If everything is in order, they will stamp the small sheet of paper you received at the Oman visa checkpoint. Keep this stamped paper safe, as you will need to present it at the final checkpoint before entering Oman.
5. Last Checkpoint before Entering Oman: Drive a few hundred meters to the last police checkpoint. Present the stamped paper from the vehicle inspection for clearance.
-----Things to Consider When Driving from Dubai to Oman-----
• Ease of Drive: The drive from Dubai to Oman is straightforward, with most main roads paved and in excellent condition.
• Vehicle Requirements: A 2-wheel drive car is sufficient for most places. A 4×4 is only necessary for off-road desert trips.
• Phone Signal: Expect intermittent phone signals outside main towns and cities. Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps offline) in advance if traveling outside populated areas.
• Road Signs: Road signs are in both Arabic and English. Traffic drives on the right side in both countries.
• Alcohol Regulations: It's not technically illegal to bring small amounts of alcohol across the border, but it's best to avoid this to prevent any customs issues. If you do bring alcohol, keep it hidden.
• Drinking and Driving: Both UAE and Oman have zero-tolerance policies for drinking and driving, with severe penalties enforced by the Royal Oman Police. You may be breathalysed if involved in an accident.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure your medical travel insurance covers you in Oman. Policies that cover the UAE often include Oman, but it's always best to verify.
• Speed Limits: In Oman, speed limits are generally 120 km/h on highways, 80-90 km/h on rural roads, and 40 km/h in urban areas unless otherwise indicated.
-----Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-----
1. Can I use an international driving license in the UAE and Oman?
Ans: Yes, an international driving license is valid in the UAE and Oman. Tourists visiting the UAE who plan to drive to Oman must have a driving license from their country of residence, which should match the residency on their passport.
2. Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) necessary for tourists driving in the UAE and Oman?
Ans: As a tourist driving in the UAE and Oman, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, tourists from certain countries are exempt if their passport and driving license are issued by the same country.
3. Can I drive my mortgaged car to Oman?
Ans: Many people, find that the Hatta-Al Wajajah border is the easiest for crossing from the UAE to Oman with a borrowed car. The staff at this border are laid-back and usually don't ask for a No Objection Certificate (NOC), even if you're driving someone else's car. Other borders between the UAE and Oman are stricter and often require an NOC. To be safe, it's a good idea to contact your bank and get an NOC before your trip.
4. What if I don't receive my e-visa in time for my trip?
Ans: If you're a UAE resident and your passport qualifies for a visa on arrival, you can still obtain a visit visa at the Oman border. If you're in the UAE on a tourist visa, you can get a regular Oman tourist visa upon arrival. Make sure to check in advance if your passport is eligible for a visa on arrival.
5. How long does it take to cross the UAE-Oman border?
Ans: It takes nearly an hour to cross the border , even with all the necessary documents ready (printed e-visa, passports, and car papers) and minimal traffic (just a few vehicles at the border).
6. What is the distance from Dubai to Oman?
Ans: The distance from Dubai to Oman is approximately 140 kilometers to the Hatta border or 160 kilometers to the Mezyad border.
7. Can I Get an Oman SIM Card at the Border?
Ans: Unfortunately, you can't buy an Oman SIM card at the border anymore (although it was once possible at the Hatta-Al-Wajajah border). This means you might need to rely on roaming or pre-download navigation apps like Google Maps until you reach Muscat or Nizwa, depending on your destination. However, you can purchase Oman SIM cards at larger malls and Muscat Airport.
8. What is the cost of an Oman visa for UAE residents arriving by road?
Ans: For UAE residents arriving in Oman by road, the visa fee is 5 OMR (approximately 50 AED), allowing a stay of up to 30 days.
Interesting Fact: Did you know you can travel between Oman and the UAE without needing a visa or permit? Not only that, but you can also venture into the UAE while in Oman. There's a unique area called Madha, an exclave of the Musandam Governorate, which belongs to Oman. It's an enclave of the UAE, located near the town of Khor Fakkan on the East Coast. What's even more fascinating is that within Madha, you'll find Nahwa, an enclave belonging to the UAE, surrounded by Madha from all sides. Surprisingly, you don't need any permits or visas to enter Madha!
We hope this information proves useful, and feel free to reach out or leave a comment if you have any questions or if there are any updates regarding traveling from the UAE to Oman by road. We'll ensure to keep this post updated with any changes that may occur.