Weekends can feel surprisingly long when surrounded by mountains, turquoise waters, and winding coastal roads. As Oman has announced the introduction of a new 14-day free tourist visa for eligible travelers, now is the best time for UAE residents to swap skyscrapers for impressive landscapes and quiet villages.
Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a change of scenery, Oman offers it all within a few hours' drive from the UAE. Here you can find ancient forts, mountain viewpoints, crystal-clear wadis, and the freshest seafood. Below is a guide on how to maximize a two-day getaway.
Before You Hit The Road
Before starting your trip, you must check the current entry requirements for Oman, ensure your passport is valid, confirm vehicle insurance for driving in the Sultanate, and have your vehicle registration and valid driver's license with you. Travelers are also advised to study border crossing procedures in advance, especially on weekends and holidays.
If the trip is planned for a weekend or public holiday, aim to cross the border early in the morning to avoid long queues.
Day 1: Leaving the UAE and Arriving in Musandam by Breakfast
One of the easiest and most pleasant road trips from the UAE is to Musandam, often called the 'Norway of Arabia' due to its dramatic coastline, high mountains, and narrow sea inlets.
Upon arriving in Khasab, you should manage to have breakfast at a local cafe before heading to Khasab Fort—a restored 17th-century fort that gives insight into Omani history. Afterwards, you can spend the rest of the morning strolling along the city's waterfront, and then take a traditional dhow cruise.
The calm sailing will take visitors past towering cliffs and secluded bays, and frequent dolphin sightings make this one of the most memorable events in the region. Many cruises also include stops for swimming and snorkeling in calm waters. For lunch, you can try freshly prepared kingfish, shrimp, or lobster at a seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. As the day cools down, head to one of Musandam's mountain viewpoints to watch the sunset. The view as the sun disappears behind the fjord-like coast is a reason enough for this trip. The night should be spent in a seaside resort or a boutique hotel in Khasab.
Day 2: Coastal Views Before Heading Home
Start the day early in the morning, enjoying breakfast with a view of the Arabian Sea, and then visit Telegraph Island or take another short sea excursion if you missed it the previous day. Those who prefer a more active vacation can rent kayaks or go diving.
Before leaving, stop by the local market to purchase Omani dates, frankincense, honey, or traditional halwa as souvenirs. The drive back to the UAE offers many scenic spots for stops, making the return journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
Looking for Mountains Instead?
If you have already visited Musandam, consider traveling towards Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar. The famous Nizwa Fort and bustling souq are excellent places for a first visit, where visitors can browse handmade silver items, ceramics, and spices. From there, you can move on to Jebel Akhdar, one of Oman's most picturesque mountainous regions. This area is known for its cool temperatures and terraced farms, making it an ideal spot for hiking, admiring panoramic views, and escaping the summer heat in the Gulf. The Balcony Walk trail is one of the country's most beautiful routes, offering views of dramatic canyons and traditional villages built on the mountain slopes.
Visiting During Khareef? Don't Miss Salalah
For those planning a longer trip or preferring to fly instead of driving, Salalah transforms into one of the Middle East's most unique destinations during the annual Khareef season. While much of the Gulf experiences intense summer heat, southern Oman becomes lush and green thanks to seasonal monsoon rains covering the region. Visitors can explore the Wadi Darbat waterfalls, the dramatic fountains at Al Mughsail beach, and the famous frankincense markets, as well as participate in dozens of cultural events throughout the season.
What to Try
No trip to Oman is complete without tasting the local cuisine. Be sure to take time to try:
- Shuwa—lamb cooked by slow roasting, traditionally served at celebrations
- Majboos—aromatic rice served with meat or seafood
- Mishkak—grilled meat skewers
- Fresh lobster, kingfish, and shrimp along the coast
- Omani halwa served with traditional qahwa (Arabic coffee)
What Should You Budget For?
Accommodation: From 360 to 550 dirhams per night in 3 and 4-star hotels in Khasab.
Dhow Cruise:
Day trips start from 140 dirhams per person (including lunch and snorkeling gear).
Food: Budget around 200–300 dirhams per day for two at local seafood restaurants and traditional establishments.
Don't Leave Without
Whether chasing mountain views, coastal sunsets, or simply wanting to slow down the pace of life, Oman remains one of the most accessible international destinations for UAE residents. With the introduction of a new 14-day free tourist visa for eligible travelers, a spontaneous weekend getaway has become even more appealing.