Your Ultimate Guide to a Road Trip from UAE to Oman: Visa, Car Insurance, and More

Are you gearing up for an exciting road trip from the UAE to Oman? Are you seeking all the essential information to guarantee a seamless and stress-free journey? So, fasten your seatbelts and let's dive into all you need to know for an unforgettable journey ahead. 

As we look ahead to the coming year, anticipation builds for the numerous long weekends and school breaks, including the upcoming EID breaks. It's the perfect time to embark on a road trip to explore new horizons or make the most of the remaining good weather for camping adventures across the border. 

The roads in both the UAE and Oman are in excellent condition, making driving from Dubai to Muscat or anywhere else in Oman a breeze. Not only is it convenient, but the scenic views along the way are simply breathtaking. With the Hajar mountains, the Gulf of Oman coastline, and rolling desert dunes, the drive offers a captivating experience. 

For UAE residents or tourists visiting Dubai, going on a road trip to Oman is a great way to explore the Sultanate. You can easily drive to Muscat, visit nearby Musandam, embark on a long drive to Salalah, or explore any other destination in Oman from any Emirate in the UAE. Whether it's a weekend trip or a longer adventure, the possibilities are endless. Oman is easily accessible through five border crossings: the Al Darah border post, the UAE/Oman Dibba border post, the Khatmat Milaha border post, the Hatta Crossing/Al Wajajah border post, and the Mezyad border post. 

To ensure a smooth entry into Oman, let's look at the following:

Visa and car insurance requirements

Visa requirements for UAE residents travelling to Oman: 

You do not need to apply for a visa in advance if you are a UAE resident. You can obtain a visa on arrival, stamped on your passport. This visa allows for a stay of up to 14 days in Oman. However, if you plan to stay longer, you must apply for an eVisa in advance, which allows a stay of up to 30 days. It is essential to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. 

Costs associated with the visa process (approximate): 

• Visa on arrival fee: 5 OMR (equivalent to approximately Dh47) 

• Exit fee: Dh35 (to be paid when exiting the UAE border) 

• Motor insurance (if your current insurance does not cover driving in Oman): Dh106 or higher, depending on the coverage. 

Get your Car Insurance from GIG Gulf online starting from AED 2/day.

Documents required for the visa process: 

• Valid Emirates ID 

• Passport with at least six months validity 

Travelling to Oman by car 

Discovering Oman at your own pace is an unparalleled experience, and driving your car allows you the freedom to do just that. But before hitting the road, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the necessary information for crossing the border and driving regulations. 

To drive your car from the UAE to Oman, ensure you have the following car documents ready at the border post: 

• Driver’s license 

• Car registration card (Mulkiya) 

• Orange card, i.e.Car insurance certificate (valid in Oman) 

If you forgot to obtain the orange card or your current motor insurance does not cover you for driving in Oman, you can purchase a policy (Orange Card) at the border. This is limited to third-party cover only, which means that your car will not be covered in case of an accident. 

A car insurance policy covering driving in Oman costs around 105 AED for five days, the minimum number of days you can purchase insurance at the border. 

Some car rental agencies in the UAE may restrict or prohibit their vehicles from crossing the border into Oman. Therefore, if you plan on renting a car, check with the rental company before your trip. 

Can I drive my friend’s car in Dubai, UAE or to Oman?  

“The answer is yes, you can drive the car provided you are a UAE resident with a valid UAE driving licence. If you are planning to drive to Oman, you also need their proof of ownership, written permission for you to take the car into Oman (NOC), car registration documents, and, of course, insurance covering the territory of Oman (orange card),” [Vaibhav M. Shah, Senior Regional Manager Retail Product Offering & Underwriting at GIG Gulf Insurance], said 

More About Car Insurance 

During holiday breaks, Oman attracts a large number of campers, making it a highly sought-after destination. If you're an adventurous spirit who enjoys road trips, it's worth considering car insurance coverage if you don’t have it in place yet.  

You may wonder, ‘How much is car insurance in the UAE?’ or ‘What type of car insurance is the cheapest?’. Well, the cost of car insurance in Dubai varies based on factors such as the coverage level you opt for, the specific vehicle you drive (whether it's a BMW, Toyota Fortuner, Nissan Patrol, Kia Rio, or another model), as well as the car's value and year of manufacture, among other considerations. 

Selecting the best car insurance in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is important for your peace of mind. Gulf Insurance Group (GIG) stands out as a reputable provider among other car insurance companies in Dubai and the UAE. With GIG, you can conveniently secure online car insurance in just a few minutes, ensuring you have the necessary protection tailored to your needs. 

I am not sure what insurance coverage I have. How can I check my car insurance in the UAE? 

With Gulf Insurance Group (GIG), it is easy – you can access your car insurance policy by visiting MyGIG Car on our website, which is fast and easy, or you can contact our Customer Service Centre. If you are insured by another provider, we advise you to contact their Customer Service Centre.

Additional tips for your journey: 

• Make sure you have enough data on your phone to navigate your way or, if possible, download the required maps to use offline. 

• Ensure you have sufficient fuel for the journey, as certain areas in Oman may have limited fuel stations.  

• Have some cash available (Omani Rials) for tolls or unexpected expenses along the way. 

Whether it's a weekend getaway or a longer exploration of Oman, hitting the road from Dubai to Muscat offers a convenient and picturesque journey that will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. 

Once you have all the necessary documents and preparations in place, driving from Dubai to Muscat or other destinations in Oman can be an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.