UAE: Planning a road trip to Oman by car? Routes, documents, all you need to know

Whether it is for a weekend getaway during a long weekend or for a quick visa run, Oman has emerged as one of the favorite destinations for many people living in the UAE. Some of the reasons why people prefer to make the trip by car include the closeness to the UAE, easy visa acquisition, and stunning physical beauty. There have also been changes in routes as well as entry costs over the years. From the latest roads to documents that are essential, here is the complete guide to driving to Oman from the UAE.

Route options

• Hatta, Al Wajajah border: For people arriving from Dubai, the most recommended border is Hatta, Al Wajajah since it is direct and considered secure to ferry people within 1. It takes about 1.5-2 hours, depending on the traffic. It is situated approximately 140 kilometers from Dubai. The motorists are required to use the E102 route. It is also the best route for people living in Sharjah, Dubai especially those from areas that are near Sharjah since they can access this route through Mleiha Road. The first one is the E84 exit which leads to Hatta, Fujairah, and Khorfakkan. This may be taken by those seeking a quick solution. The second route is through the Wadi Al Helo, Kalba road. Those who may not be pressed for time and may like to have mountains and Wadis on their way to Oman may follow this route.
• Meyzad, Hafeet border: Those coming from Abu Dhabi would find the Meyzad, Hafeet border suitable because it is 180km from the capital city. For the residents of Dubai, the border post is approximately 160 km.
• Dibba border: If you have the vibrant corals and clear waters of Musandam in your mind as your ultimate destination, then this route is the most preferable. For Dubai residents, the journey takes almost two hours and is 146km away from the bustling city. This route is open to expats without an Oman visa, as well as visit visa holders, but they are allowed to remain only in the Dibba Musandam area.
• Al Darrah border: For those who want to explore Musandam’s Khasab town, UAE residents can come through the Al Darrah border crossing from Ras Al Khaimah. The mountainous emirate is the closest to it, at a short distance of 35km. Although, an Oman visa is required to enter through this border post.

Documents required Residents traveling from the UAE need to carry the following documents:

• Original passport
• Original visa or a copy for those who have the e-visa
• Emirates ID
• Car registration card (mulkiya)
• Orange card, which is a car insurance certificate that should be valid in Oman.

At the border When taking the Hatta route from Dubai, 500 meters away from the border of Oman, a ‘Leaving Hatta’ sign will pop up. This is how you know your first checkpoint is close. This is a UAE checkpoint, where security personnel usually ask for the car’s registration card and passports of all those present in the vehicle. Here, residents have to pay the exit fee of Dh35, as they leave the Emirates. After this, residents reach the Oman border, where they have to go through a passport control, and may be required to get off from their cars and enter the building. Officials stamp the passport with an entry stamp, while usually checking travelers’ Emirates ID. After leaving this post, some residents might be asked to have their vehicles inspected by officials at the last checkpoint in Oman.