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Are you going to traveling from Dubai to Oman by road? Whether you are a resident or traveler, traveling to Oman is highly recommended. The best option of driving actually presents a straightforward and the best way to travel from Dubai. You will have to follow some relevant considerations.
For a detailed overview we advise you that when you are on a border crossing Dubai trip. Planning is required and we refer you to this article for further insights and great ideas for the Oman Road trip originating from Dubai.
Distance from Dubai to Oman
Oman actually shares its border with the UAE to the east that is situated around 140 km from Dubai. When you are flying from Dubai to Muscat you are offered a quick and convenient option. Traveling from Dubai to Oman presents an enriching experience. Both the countries have well-maintained roads and highways that make navigation quite easy.
Traveling to Oman actually exposes travelers to a wide variety of landscape, deserts, mountains and coastlines. Moreover, it allows you to explore beyond Muscat. You can get help from the guided tours particularly beneficial considering limited public transport. Actually, for non-residents, the initial step involves rent a car in the UAE.
UAE Oman border crossing is crucial. So, ensure that you have all the required documents for a memorable journey. Detailed guidance is as below.
Can I rent a car from UAE to Oman?
Yes, it’s possible, though not all rental companies allow it. Before going outside UAE, confirm the company’s policy and whether it allows the vehicles to move from Oman or not. You will have to require a no objection certificate. At the Oman border, verification of authorized transport is very crucial. This will require you to present an NOC that you obtain from the rental agency.
Requirements
Renting a Car in Dubai for Dubai to Oman Journey
Arriving via Dubai International Airport prompted exploration of various car rental options situated there. Opting for Moosa Rent a Car, a reputable global company, was our choice due to their established reputation. It explicits allowance of rental car transport to Oman, as stated on their website.
Obtain Permission to Take UAE Rental Car
To obtain permission for your border crossing, begin by reserving the car directly through the Moosa Rent a Car website. Their terms and conditions stipulate that for cross-border travel to Oman, you must contact the Moosa Rent a Car Call Centre at least 72 hours in advance. This allows ample time for them to arrange your Oman Insurance and issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) letter.
After confirming your car rental booking, email the Moosa Rent a Car Call Centre with your reservation number, requesting authorization to take the car to Oman. They will then ask for scanned copies of your passport and driver’s license. Once submitted, your request will be processed, and upon arrival at the airport to pick up the car, everything will be prepared for you.
Oman Insurance
Additional insurance specifically for Oman is mandatory when driving from Dubai to Oman. Moosa Rent a Car will include this insurance in your rental upon request, covering the associated costs and documentation fees.
As of 2024, the fees are outlined as follows:
Car Groups B, C, D, and E:
· 1-3 days: 450 AED (100 AED per additional day)
· 1 week: 750 AED (100 AED per additional day)
· 1 month: 1500 AED (100 AED per additional day)
Car Groups K, M, N, and L:
· 1-3 days: 650 AED (125 AED per additional day)
· 1 week: 1100 AED (125 AED per additional day)
· 1 month: 2000 AED (125 AED per additional day)
Upon collecting your rental car, you will receive an envelope containing the Oman insurance document in Arabic. This document must be presented at the UAE-Oman border crossing and at police checkpoints throughout Oman.
No Objection Certificate (NOC)
A signed NOC letter from Moosa Rent a Car is required at the border crossing when traveling from Dubai to Oman by road. This letter confirms that you, the registered driver, are leasing a vehicle from Moosa Rent a Car and that they have no objections to your travel to Oman during the rental period.
The NOC letter, printed on letterhead, is provided along with other documents when picking up your car at Dubai Airport.
Car Registration Card
Ensure the car’s registration card is kept inside the vehicle at all times. We were routinely asked for this document during stops, typically by the police saying “car card?” Moosa Rent a Car ensured we had the original card, stored in the glove compartment throughout the journey. Upon returning the car to Moosa Rent a Car, the original document was to be returned to them.
Dubai to Oman By Road Route Options
Several UAE-Oman border crossings are available, but not all are accessible to tourists/non-GCC residents. When traveling from Dubai to Oman by road, focus on the following border crossings, depending on your location and destination:
· 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 Fujairah Emirate)
· Khatmat Malaha Border Post in Kalba (Eastern Sharjah, Gulf of Oman side)
Hatta – Al Wajajah Border Crossing
The Hatta Al-Wajajah border crossing is a preferred route for travelers journeying from Dubai to Muscat by road. It stands as the closest UAE-Oman border to Dubai, welcoming all, including UAE expatriates and tourists. Typically, the crossing time ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour, subject to fluctuations based on traffic volume, particularly during public holidays and weekends.
Choose the Hatta-Al Wajajah border crossing if:
· Your destination is Muscat or the Eastern part of Oman, as it’s approximately 140 km from Dubai and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes to drive from downtown Dubai to the border.
· You are traveling from other emirates apart from Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Notably, it’s the nearest border for those coming from Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain, heading to the East of Oman Mainland.
· You intend to drive from Dubai to Salalah along the coast, though it entails a longer route compared to the border in Al Ain.
Important Note:
When traveling from Dubai to Hatta Al Wajajah, take Sharjah-Kalba road E102, followed by the new Hatta road. Avoid the E44 route through Al Madam, which leads to a border near Al Madam in Sharjah, currently either closed or exclusively open for GCC citizens.
Tip:
After crossing into Oman from the Hatta border and heading to Muscat, opt for the newly built highway in Oman’s hinterlands for a more pleasant and slightly quicker route compared to the coastal route.
Mezyad-Hafeet Border Crossing in Al Ain
Situated in Al Ain, known as the Garden City of the UAE, the Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing offers convenience for travelers departing from the capital Abu Dhabi or those heading to destinations such as Nizwa, Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar, or Salalah.
Opt for the Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing if:
· You are driving from Abu Dhabi to Mainland Oman, as it’s approximately 190 km and a 2-hour drive from Abu Dhabi to the Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing in Al Ain.
· Your journey originates from Dubai and heads to Nizwa, Jebel Shams, and Salalah in Southern Oman. From Dubai Downtown, it’s around 160 km and a 2-hour drive to the Mezyad-Hafeet border.
· You are traveling from other Emirates (Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain) to Nizwa, Jebel Shams, and Salalah in Southern Oman.
Tip:
If your road trip starts in Muscat but concludes in Nizwa, you can utilize the Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing to return to the UAE.
Khatam Al Shiklah Border in Al Ain
Another border between the UAE and Oman in Al Ain, Khatam Al Shiklah, primarily caters to trucks but is accessible to regular cars as well, offering an alternative route to Mezyad-Hafeet. The travel time to reach this border is similar to that of the Mezyad border. In personal experience, this border tends to be quiet with minimal traffic.
Note:
The distance between the control posts at Khatam Al Shiklah on both the UAE and Oman sides spans around 30km, constituting a lengthy drive through no man’s land.
Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam (Westside coastal Khasab road)
Utilize the Al Dhara border crossing if your destination is Khasab in the Musandam Peninsula on the west side. Situated at the northern tip of Ras al Khaimah emirate, this border link connects the UAE to Oman’s exclave Musandam Governorate on the west side. It takes approximately 2 hours from Dubai and 3.5 hours from Abu Dhabi to reach the Musandam Al Dhara border.
Dibba Checkpoint – Musandam East Coast (North of Fujairah Emirate)
For travel to the east side of Musandam, Oman, utilize the Dibba checkpoint crossing. This checkpoint primarily serves as a military checkpoint rather than an official border crossing, with only a checkpoint on the UAE side. Tourists and GCC residents use one checkpoint, while another is exclusively for GCC citizens.
If planning a visit to the Musandam Peninsula from the Dibba side, arrangements can be made through tour operators or accommodations like Six Senses Ziggy Bay Resort or Dibba Resort for a visa-free entry. Alternatively, visitors can obtain an Oman visit visa for activities such as hiking in Wadi Khub al Shamzi or mountain biking in the area.
Khatmat Malaha Border Post in Kalba (Eastern Sharjah, Gulf of Oman Side)
This border crossing is suitable for travelers driving from Fujairah or Kalba (a town belonging to the Sharjah Emirate on the east side of the UAE). However, clarity regarding this border crossing is limited. While some sources suggest it’s open to GCC residents, others have encountered difficulties crossing with a rental car despite having a NOC and insurance. In such cases, travelers may be redirected to the Hatta border.
Fun Fact
Did you know you can visit Oman from the UAE without a visa or permit? Moreover, you can also visit UAE within Oman. Madha, a small territory belonging to Oman, serves as an enclave of the UAE near Khor Fakkan town on the East Coast. Additionally, Nahwa, an enclave territory belonging to the UAE, is surrounded by Madha from all sides. Entry into Madha requires no permit or visa.
Step by Step Guide to Travel from Dubai to Oman
Border crossing procedures when traveling from Dubai to Oman by car may seem complex for first-time travelers. Below are the step-by-step procedures and formalities you’ll encounter at the UAE-Oman land borders, specifically outlined for the Hatta-Al Wajajah border, although similar steps apply to other UAE-Oman borders.
Pay UAE Exit Fee
At the initial drive-through counter on the UAE side of the border, you’ll be required to pay the exit fee of 35 AED per person plus 5% VAT. Obtain a receipt and present it at the next window along with your passports to receive a UAE exit stamp. Payment can be made in cash or by card, but carrying cash (UAE dirhams) is advisable.
Present Your Oman Visit Visa
After exiting the UAE, undergo a visa check and receive an entry stamp to Oman. Your car registration documents, insurance, and NOC (if applicable) will also be inspected. At the Hatta-Al Wajajah border, proceed approximately 1 kilometer to the Oman border post. Park your car and enter the building to obtain Oman entry stamps. Prearranged Oman e-visas can expedite this process. Otherwise, complete the immigration application form and make payments for the Oman visit visa on-site.
Dubai to Oman By Road Visitor Visa Cost
For those opting to acquire a visitor visa upon arrival, the costs are as follows:
· 10 Day Visa: 5 OMR
· 30 Day Visa: 20 OMR
Dubai/Oman Common Visa Requirements
To qualify for the complimentary 21A Dubai/Oman Common Visa, individuals must meet the following criteria:
· Arrive in Oman from Dubai (via Hatta Al-Wajajah land crossing, Muscat airport, or a seaport)
· Maintain 21 days’ validity on the Dubai visa upon entering Oman
· Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months upon entry to Oman
· Be a citizen of one of the Dubai-Oman joint visa countries
· Hold a visit visa issued by the Emirate of Dubai There is no fee associated with this visa.
Important
Oman visa on arrival eligibility varies by nationality, with the possibility of a free Oman visit visa under certain criteria. Continue reading for comprehensive information on Oman visit visas for both UAE visitors and residents. Once visas are processed and passports stamped, you’ll receive a small sheet indicating the number of passengers traveling to Oman, which must be retained for subsequent checkpoints.
Pass Oman Passport Control
Return to your vehicle and proceed to the passport checkpoint, where you’ll present your passport with the Oman entry stamp for verification.
Vehicle Inspection Point
Following passport control, stop for a car inspection. Border control officers will inspect the interior and trunk of your vehicle, stamping the small sheet received during the Oman visa checkpoint if all is in order. Retain this document for the final checkpoint before entering Oman.
Pass the Last Checkpoint Before Entering Oman
Drive a short distance to the last police checkpoint, presenting the stamped document received during the car inspection.
With the completion of these steps, you’ve successfully crossed the border into Oman. Welcome to Oman!
How Long Does it Take to Cross UAE to Oman Border?
Crossing the UAE-Oman border can vary in duration depending on factors like the border crossing point, the time of day, and the volume of traffic. Based on personal experience and observations, the time it takes to cross the border can differ significantly.
Hatta-Al Wajajah Border (Dubai to Muscat)
· With all documents ready and minimal queues, it typically takes around an hour to pass through the Hatta-Al Wajajah border when driving from Dubai to Muscat.
· During peak times, such as public holidays and weekends, expect longer wait times, potentially extending to a couple of hours.
Al-Dhara (Khasab) Border (Dubai to Musandam, Oman)
· Crossing the Al-Dhara border when traveling to Musandam, Oman, is generally faster compared to other borders.
· In optimal conditions with minimal queues, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes at the Al-Dhara border.
Returning from Oman to the UAE
The process of returning to the UAE from Oman by car is similar but in reverse, with a few differences:
Exiting Oman
· Upon leaving Oman, you’ll receive a small piece of paper with an exit stamp. Keep this document safe as you’ll need to present it at the next checkpoint on the UAE border side.
Arriving in the UAE
· At the UAE border, you’ll go through immigration procedures. Tourists and residents may have separate facilities, while GCC citizens might have dedicated checkpoints.
· Your passports and UAE visa (if applicable) will be checked.
Vehicle Inspection Point
· After UAE passport control, your vehicle will undergo a thorough inspection.
· Drive through an x-ray scan and then stop at a checkpoint where the contents of your car will be inspected.
· Collect a stamped document from the officer, which you’ll need to present at the final checkpoint.
Welcome back to the UAE! Overall, the process of crossing the UAE-Oman border and returning can be time-consuming, especially during busy periods. It’s essential to have all required documents ready and to be prepared for potential delays, particularly during peak travel times.
UAE to Oman Visa Requirement
UAE to Oman by road involves specific visa requirements depending on your residency status and the duration of your stay in Oman. Here’s a breakdown of the visa requirements for UAE residents and tourists traveling to Oman:
Visa-Free Entry for UAE Residents (Less than 14 days)
· UAE expats and GCC residents can enter Oman visa-free if they are traveling for less than 14 days.
· The UAE residency must be valid for at least 3 months before arrival, and the passport must have a validity of at least 6 months.
Oman E-Visa for UAE Residents (Staying Longer than 14 days)
· If staying in Oman for longer than 14 days, UAE residents should apply for an Oman e-visa online.
· Visit the Royal Oman Police’s official website and apply for a tourist visa, selecting the appropriate visa type (e.g., Form 29A GCC Resident Visa valid for 30 days).
· The cost for a 30-day Oman tourist visa for GCC residents is 5 OMR (50 AED).
Dubai to Oman by Road: Entering Oman with UAE Visit Visa (Tourist)
Oman E-Visa Required for Tourists in the UAE
· Tourists holding a UAE visit visa can apply for an Oman e-visa online or obtain it on arrival if eligible.
· The visa cost depends on the duration of stay and nationality.
· Visitors from G1 countries can get a visa on arrival for 10 days (10 OMR) or apply for a 30-day e-visa (20 OMR).
· For travelers not from G1 countries, they can apply for specific visa types based on their visa status in countries like Schengen, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, or Japan.
· The cost for e-visas (26F and 26B types) is 20 OMR (200 AED) for a 30-day stay in Oman.
· Other travelers may need to obtain an Oman visit visa through the Oman embassy in their country of residence or use visa application services.
Important Notes:
· Travelers with single-entry UAE tourist visas may not be allowed to enter Musandam and should have multiple-entry visas.
· Ensure to check the eligibility criteria and visa requirements based on your nationality and visa status before planning your trip.
· By adhering to the visa requirements outlined above, travelers can ensure smooth entry into Oman and enjoy their road trip from the UAE.
Passport Validity Requirement
All passports must have a validity of at least 6 months during your visit to Oman. This means your passport should not expire within the next 6 months from the date of entry into Oman.
Dubai/Oman Common Visa for Tourists in the UAE
· The 21A Dubai/Oman Common Visa is a free Oman tourist visa available on arrival for UAE tourist visa holders from specific countries.
· To qualify for this visa, your UAE tourist visa must be valid for at least 21 days before entering Oman.
· You must enter Oman through the Hatta-Al Wajajah border to avail this visa.
Dubai-Oman Joint Visa Countries
Citizens from the following countries are eligible for the Dubai-Oman Common Visa: 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 Note
Some travelers may not need a visa to travel to Oman if they are passport holders of one of the 103 countries and regions exempt from entry visas for stays shorter than 14 days. This information is provided by the Foreign Ministry of Oman. However, it’s essential to verify the latest visa regulations and requirements before planning your trip.
Oman E-Visa Processing Time
Oman e-visa processing times typically range from 24 hours to up to 4 working days on average. However, based on personal experience and anecdotal evidence, e-visas can be issued within minutes, hours, or a few days. To ensure a smooth process, it’s advisable to apply for the Oman e-visa at least a week before your planned trip. In most cases, e-visas are processed well within this timeframe, and it’s rare for the processing to take longer than 5 days.
What if you do not receive your e-visa on time before your trip?
UAE residents may still obtain a visit visa at the Oman border if their passport is eligible for a visa on arrival. Similarly, tourists holding a UAE tourist visa can obtain a regular Oman tourist visa on arrival. However, it’s essential to confirm beforehand whether your passport qualifies for a visa on arrival.
For those seeking a convenient and streamlined process, third-party visa services like iVisa offer hassle-free Oman visa issuance for an additional fee. These services can handle the paperwork on your behalf, ensuring a smoother visa application process.
Conclusion
Follow simple steps to enjoy the tour from Dubai to Oman. This guide has all the information regarding Dubai exiting to Oman entrance and then leaving Oman to UAE by road.
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