Driving From Dubai To Oman in 2024: Take Into Account These Tips

When you visit the Middle East, you will surely want to take advantage of the close proximity of the various countries in the region and visit more than one of them. One popular route is to go from Dubai to Oman by road. While the process is relatively straightforward, there are certain things you should keep in mind before you go.

In the sections below, we will take a closer look at what you need to do to get from Dubai to Oman without issue.

Quick checklist for getting from the UAE to Oman by car

Any time you cross international borders, it is to your advantage to create a checklist of things that you will need. In the case of the UAE and Oman, this includes the following essential documents:

• Car registration (k”Mulkiya”) and insurance
• An “Orange” card for Oman, which covers insurance claims
• An international driver’s license (for citizens of certain countries)
• A no objection certificate (NOC) if the car you are driving is not your own
• For Dubai vehicles, a certificate to use the vehicle outside the border of the UAE
• A tourist visa to Oman
• Your passport
• Travel insurance

Obtaining car insurance (Orange Card)

The Orange Card system in Oman is part of the International Motor Insurance Card System. Within Oman, it is a system that exists for both government and insurance companies to keep track of motor vehicle activity and ensure that accidents are dealt with appropriately.

Getting an Orange Card is not particularly difficult; all you have to do is contact your insurance provider to request one.

Border Crossings and Procedures

You should also be aware of where the UAE-Oman border crossings are. 

Hatta-Al Wajajah

The Hatta Al-Wajajah border will take you from Dubai to the border in just one hour and 40 minutes. It is only 140 km from Dubai to the border with Oman. It is one of the most popular routes for people driving to Muscat.

This border is also popular for people starting their journeys from most of the other Emirates. The only Emirates that are not convenient for crossing Hatta Al-Wajajah are Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. 

Mezyad-Hafeet

The Mezyad-Hafeet border is convenient for people who are traveling from Abu Dhabi. It is also a preferable route if you are traveling to certain parts of Oman such as Nizwa, Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar, or Salalah. 

The journey from Abu Dhabi is 190 km will take you approximately two hours, depending on traffic. From Dubai, it is 160 km.

Khatam Al Shiklah 

There is another border at Al Ain which is primarily for people crossing by truck, although it is open for all vehicles. It can be an alternative to the crossing at Mezyad-Hafeet as it sees less traffic overall.

Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam

The Al Dhara border is on the northern end of Ras Al Khaimah and is preferable for people traveling to Khasab on the Musandam Peninsula. The distance between Dubai and Musandam Al Dhara is 150 km and the travel time is approximately 3.5 hours.

Dibba

If you are heading to the other side of Musandam, on the east coast, the Dibba checkpoint is an alternative route. However, you should note that it is primarily a military checkpoint and there is no official checkpoint on the Oman side of the border.

Steps for crossing the border into Oman

1. Pay the UAE exit fee. This will cost you 35 AED, plus an additional 5% VAT for each of the people in your car. Keep the receipt once you have paid as you will have to show it again to receive your exit stamp.
2. When you cross into the Oman side, show your visa. You will also have to have all your other documents on hand. If you do not have a visa, you will have to fill out an application for a visa on arrival. You will then pass through Omani passport control.
3. Pass through vehicle inspection. You will have your entire car inspected by an officer, and afterwards you will receive a stamp of approval.
4. Pass through one additional checkpoint. At this final checkpoint, you will be asked to show your vehicle stamp of approval.

Travel tips and recommendations

There are several other things to keep in mind that will make your trip easier for you. Be sure to have a full tank of petrol before you pass through the border. You never know how long you might be stuck at a UAE Oman border crossing. 

You should also be sure to have an Omani sim card on hand. Your UAE sim card might not work on the other side, and you don’t want to be stuck without navigation or communication abilities in unknown territory.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with driving routes in advance, and also what the rules are in Oman. Not all driving laws are identical between the two countries. 

Visa Requirements for UAE Residents and Tourists

If you are a UAE resident, you do not need a tourist visa to enter Oman if you are staying for less than 14 days. For citizens of countries that do require a visa, there is an e-visa application process that you can complete online before your trip. This will make the Oman border crossing easier than getting a visa on arrival.

Traveling from Dubai or other parts of the UAE to Oman is fairly straightforward, as long as you are organized and come prepared with the required documentation. It would also be to your advantage to secure a visa in advance of your trip so that you do not have additional delays at the border. Check travel times in advance as weekends, holidays, and other special occasions might cause the more popular border crossings to become backed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel to Oman with a Dubai visa?

No, Dubai visas are not applicable to Oman. All international visitors and Emirati citizens staying 14 days or more are required to get a visa.

How much is a visa to Oman?

Visas to Oman cost 20 Omani Riyal, or approximately 51 USD.

Can I take my car from Dubai to Oman?

Yes, if you have the required documentation mentioned above.

How much is Oman visa for UAE residents by road?

UAE residents do not need a visa to Oman for stays of up to 14 days. For stays longer than 14 days, the fee is 20 Omani Royal.

Can UAE residents travel to Oman by car?

Yes, as long as they bring the required documents.

Is there an entrance fee to enter Oman?

No, but you must pay 35 AED to leave the UAE, plus 5% VAT for every passenger in a given car.

Do entry points depend on the car you drive?

No, but certain entry points are more frequently traveled by military or other special vehicles.

Are certain routes preferable to others?

Depending on when you travel, you might want to avoid some of the more popular routes. Weekends and holidays tend to increase wait times and traffic significantly.

Can citizens of all countries enter Oman?

Yes, but most will require a visa.