Planning a trip from Dubai to Oman by road (or from Abu Dhabi, UAE)? From UAE to Oman border crossing, Dubai to Oman by road visa requirements, car insurance, other travel requirements, and procedures, as well as how many hours it takes to drive from Dubai (Abu Dhabi) to Oman, here is everything you need to know before you go to Oman from the UAE by road.
Traveling to Oman by road from Dubai (or Abu Dhabi, or any other Emirate) is one of the easiest ways to visit the Sultanate. Whether you are a UAE resident or just visiting, you can easily go on a road trip to Muscat, Musandam, Salalah, or anywhere else in Oman from any Emirate in the UAE either for a weekend or longer.
When I was planning my Oman road trip itinerary, I had to find the best way to go from Dubai to Muscat by road and what are Oman from UAE traveling by road procedures. Even figuring out which Oman-UAE border to cross can be confusing as there are several UAE-Oman borders.
Therefore, to help you easily plan a road trip to Oman, I have compiled all the necessary information and tips about driving to Oman from UAE.
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.
Driving to Oman from Dubai: what you need to know about going from UAE to Oman by road
Travel requirements from Dubai (UAE) to Oman by road: Quick Checklist
- Oman tourist visa (obtained online or at the border, subject to nationality).
- A passport should be valid for at least 6 months after the visa issue date.
- For UAE expats-UAE residency should be valid for at least 3 months.
- VACCINE IS NO LONGER REQUIRED! (Oman Air Travel advisory on Covid-19)
- The PCR test is NOT required. (Oman Air Travel advisory on Covid-19)
- Advisable Travel health insurance covering covid-19.
- NO LONGER REQUIRED! Fill in a form on Oman’s Travel Authorisation System before your trip to Oman HERE.
- Car registration (mulkiya), car insurance in Oman-orange card.
- NOC certificate for a rental car or if you are driving a borrowed car.
Related Articles
- 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.
Sign up HERE to receive a FREE downloadable OMAN MINI GUIDE !
UAE to Oman car documents and other requirements
Driving your own car from UAE to Oman
When driving your own car from UAE to Oman, make sure to obtain a so-called orange card from your insurance company. This card serves as an insurance policy and is required when traveling in the GAIF (General Arab Insurance Federation) countries (which includes Oman).
Depending on your insurance policy (if you purchased a policy that covers Oman territory) you either get an orange card free of charge or at a fee to cover your car in The Sultanate of Oman.
When I requested an orange card, I received it the next day via email from my insurance company. However, I have heard that in some cases, it may take a couple of days to prepare it. 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).
NOTE: Orange card covers damages caused by the Insured to a Third Party in a foreign GAIF member country (including Oman in this case).
What if my car is on the mortgage, can I still drive it to Oman?
If your car is on the mortgage, it can be a little confusing. However, from information online, it seems that the Hatta-Al Wajajah border is allowing passengers with cars that are still on a loan. I drove my car while it was still on loan without any issues.
Can I drive somebody else’s (my friend’s) car to Oman?
Yes, you can drive someone else’s car as long as you have the no-objection certificate (NOC) from the owner, car registration documents, and insurance covering the territory of Oman (orange card).
Can I take a rental car from Dubai to Oman?
Yes, it is usually possible to drive a rental car from Dubai to Oman. However, you must first check with the rental company if they allow taking the car to the neighboring country. 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.
If yes, they will have to give you a no objection certificate (NOC) and advice on additional requirements. Also, you must obtain car insurance for Oman. This you can either get at your car rental company or at the border (although the latter can be more expensive).
Is an international license valid in UAE and Oman?
If you are a tourist visiting the UAE and are willing to drive to Oman, you have to have a driving license issued in your country of residence, matching the residency stated on your passport. In addition, you may also need International Driving Permit (IDP)- some rental companies do request this, and some do not. It also depends on which country driving license you hold.
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.
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.
The best rates for renting a car in UAE
I recommend using Localrent to find the best car rental deals in the UAE.
RELATED READS: Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
UAE to Oman by road Visa requirements
Do I have to apply for an Oman visa online or can I get it at the border?
UPDATE: According to information across various GCC news portals, UAE residents no longer have to apply for an e-visa and are granted a visa-free entrance to Oman. However, visa-free entry is granted to specific nationalities only.* If your passport does not fall under the free-visa list, you must still obtain a paid visit visa to Oman either on arrival or online. The previous requirement to have UAE residency with an occupation from the approved profession’s list has been removed as well (ALL commercial professions are now allowed). GCC residency visa must be valid for at least 3 months before entering Oman.
*I recently visited Oman by road via the Hatta 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 and UK nationals who are residents in the UAE can travel visa-free to Oman. Also, I am guessing, Americans, Australians, and Canadians should be on a visa-free list as well.
If you are a UAE resident or a tourist planning your trip to Oman it is advisable to apply for e-visa online before your trip. It will also save you tons of time when crossing the UAE-Oman border. Visa on arrival is available to specific nationalities only.
Pro Tip: Oman e-visa processing times are on average 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.
Where and how to apply for an Oman e-visa
To apply for an Oman visa online, go to Royal Oman Police’s official website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om/. Click on the “Apply for Tourist Visa” section and follow the procedure.
You will be asked to create an account before you can apply for an Unsponsored Oman tourist visa.
Oman Visit Visa for tourists in the UAE
- If you are a tourist visiting UAE and want to go to Oman by road, you must fill out the 26B Tourist Visit Visa form for 20 OMR (approx. 52 USD). It allows staying in Oman for up to 30 days on a single entry. If you are traveling to Oman for only up to 10 days, you can obtain a 10-day Oman visit visa directly on the border for 10 OMR (26 USD). Make sure your passport permits a visa on arrival.
Note: not all passport holders can apply for the 26B Tourist Visit Visa. Once you choose your nationality on the Royal Oman police website, you will be provided with a list of different types of visas that you are eligible for.
Alternatively, if you want to have all the paperwork done for you, iVisa offers hassle-free visa-issuing services for an additional fee.
Dubai/Oman Common visa: Free Oman tourist visa on arrival used to be available several years ago for UAE tourist visa holders who fall under a list of Dubai-Oman Joint Visa countries**. It is called Dubai/Oman Common visa and is marked on the Royal Police of Oman website as type 21A (NOT available to apply online). Also, your UAE tourist visa must be valid for at least 21 days before entering Oman.
On the Royal Police of Oman website it is stated that when traveling by land, you must be crossing Al Wajajah border in Hatta. Thus, it is not clear if this free visa is also available to enter Musandam (it used to be).
**Dubai-Oman Joint Visa Countries: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Britain, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, USA, and Vatican City.
Oman Visit Visa for GCC residents
UPDATE: GCC residents including UAE residents of specific nationalities are no longer required visas to visit the Sultanate of Oman. Some nationalities still need to apply for an e-visa, and some can get it on arrival. However, people of ALL commercial professions are now permitted (the requirement to be on the list of specific professions has been removed). Note that the UAE residency must be valid for at least 3 months prior to arrival to the Sultanate.
- If you are a GCC resident, in most cases you will need to fill in the form 29A GCC Resident Visa valid for 28 days (unless you are looking to apply for a long-term or if your UAE residency falls under other specific conditions).
- The 28-day Tourist Visa cost for GCC residents is 5 OMR (approx. 50 AED).
Note: In order to be eligible for 29A GCC Resident Visa you have to fall under the approved professions list which is stated on your UAE residency visa. If your profession is not on the list, you won’t be granted an Oman visa. In this case, again depending on your nationality, you could possibly apply for a regular tourist visa- 26B Tourist Visit Visa. However, you must check this information with immigration before doing so.
Oman travel regulations: vaccination, PCR test requirements, health insurance, and registering for travel authorization
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.
Once you have all your travel documents, a question is which land border should you be crossing? Continue reading to find out all information on which route to Oman from Dubai, and other emirates in UAE you have to take.
UAE to Oman border crossing- which route to take
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 borders are open to GCC citizens only.
Below is a list of the border posts open for tourists, GCC residents, and citizens. I also added recommendations on which border to take based on your location in UAE and destination in Oman. Finally, I share procedures and formalities I have experienced while crossing UAE-Oman borders by land.
The best rates for renting a car in Oman
I recommend using Discovercars to find the best car rental deals in Oman.
Hatta – Al Wajajah Border Post
Cross this border if:
- You are driving from Dubai to Muscat or the Eastern part of Oman. It is 140 KM and takes approximately 1 HR 40 MIN to drive from downtown Dubai to the Hatta Al Wajajah border.
- Hatta-Wajajah is also the closest border to cross if you are coming from other emirates except for Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. That being said, when driving from Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain to 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.
Make sure to check this Dubai to Salalah road trip planner if you are thinking of driving to Salalah.
Important! When coming 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).
Mezyad-Hafeet border crossing in Al Ain
Cross this border if:
- You are driving from Abu Dhabi to Oman. Al Ain Mezyad-Hafeet border is the closest option for those of you driving from Abu Dhabi to Oman’s mainland. It is a 190km drive for about 2 hrs from Abu Dhabi to the Mezyad border.
- 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.
Khatam Al Shiklah border in Al Ain
This is the other border in Al Ain which is mainly used by trucks. However, regular cars can also use 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.
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 tourists and GCC residents. However, I couldn’t find 100 percent confirmation.
In case you are travelling from Fujeirah and are not sure if you want to take a risk going all the way to this border, then you better head directly to Hatta- Al Wajajah post.
Al Dhara Border Post-Musandam (Westside coastal Khasab road)
Use this 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.
RELATED READS: Planing on going from Dubai to Musandam? 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. Click HERE to read it.
Dibba checkpoint – Musandam East coast (north of Fujeirah emirate)
Use this crossing if: you are going to the East side of Musandam.
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 Dibba side, you must use a tour operator or stay at Six Senses Ziggy Bay Resort, or Dibba Resort to be able to cross this checkpoint.
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 a regular visit visa to cross the checkpoint.
Just before the lockdown back in 2020, we crossed Dibba checkpoint with regular GCC residents’ Oman visit visas when we were going hiking on that side. We did not know about permits being arranged by tour operators. Also, the officers at the border did not question us much, we said we going hiking and they let us through.
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 Map
UAE-Oman border waiting times, formalities, and procedures
UAE Exit Fee
When leaving UAE by land you must always pay 35 AED exit fee per person, and get an exit stamp on your passport.
How long does it take to pass UAE-Oman border?
From my personal experience, with all the documents ready (printed e-visa, vaccine certificates, PCR tests, travel registration form, car, and travel insurance), all the checking procedures, without queues (only a few vehicles at the border), it still took us almost an hour to pass Hatta-Al Wajajah border.
If there was a queue at the border, it would have taken much longer. Public holidays and weekends are known to be notorious when it comes to queueing at UAE-Oman borders.
What is the step-by-step procedure at the UAE-Oman border posts?
- At the first drive-through counter on the UAE side, you will be asked to pay the exit fee of 35 AED plus 5% VAT per person. Keep the receipt, you will show it at the next window together with your passports where you will get an UAE exit stamp.
At the Oman border side, at dedicated checkpoints, you will first be asked to present your vaccination certificate, PCR, passport, and travel registration form which I advise you to fill it in online before travelling. If you do not have one, you may be asked to pay a 25 AED registration fee for it.- Then you will have to proceed with a visa check and entry stamp to Oman. Also, your car registration documents and insurance will be checked. On the Hatta Wajajah border, we had to park the car and enter the building to get our Oman entry stamps. We already had e-visas prearranged which saved us time. You will also be handed a small piece of paper that indicates the number of passengers- keep it safe, you will have to show it when driving through the passport control gate and a car inspection.
- After passing the Oman passport control window, you will have to stop for car inspections where the interiors of your car and the car’s boot will be checked. The border control officer will inspect the interior of your car and will give you a small sheet of stamped paper which you will have to show at the last checkpoint before entering Oman. And that is it. Welcome to Oman!
- On the way back from Oman to UAE, you will be given a small piece of paper when crossing the Oman border (probably an exit stamp of some sort). Keep it safe as you will have to present it later on the UAE side.
- 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, while GCC residents could drive through). Here you will have to show your passport,
and PCR results (no longer than 14 days old).The small paper you were asked to keep safe will most likely be collected here as well, but I cannot remember exactly. Just have it ready. - 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 over the paper to the person at the last drive-through check boot. And that is the last step. Welcome back to the UAE!
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 driving from UAE to Oman procedures. I will keep this post updated if any changes happen.
Oman travel essentials
Other Oman travel resources
- 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.
- Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
- 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.
Hi,
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
Hi,
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.
Hi,
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.
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 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.
Hi
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.
Thanks
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.
Hi,
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)
Hai,
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!
Hi,
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.
Hi Ihsan,
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.
Hello,
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?
Thank you.
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/
Hi shoaib,
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