With Oman offering a free 14-day tourist visa for eligible travellers, UAE residents can plan the perfect two-day getaway.
A weekend getaway can feel surprisingly extended when spent among rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters and scenic coastal roads.
With Oman introducing a free 14-day tourist visa for eligible travellers, UAE residents now have an ideal opportunity to trade city skylines for breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and a refreshing escape.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a refreshing change of scenery, Oman offers a mix of experiences just a few hours’ drive from the UAE. From historic forts and mountain landscapes to clear-water wadis and freshly prepared seafood, here’s how to enjoy the perfect 48-hour getaway.
Before you hit the road
Before setting off, travellers should check the latest entry requirements for Oman, ensure their passports meet the required validity conditions, and confirm that their vehicles are insured for use in the Sultanate. It is also important to carry the vehicle registration documents and a valid driving licence. Visitors are advised to review border crossing procedures before departure, especially during weekends and public holidays.
If you’re travelling on weekends or during public holidays, it is best to cross the border early in the morning to avoid potential delays and long queues.
Day 1: Depart the UAE early and reach Musandam by breakfast
One of the most popular and scenic road trips from the UAE is to Musandam, often known as the “Norway of Arabia” for its stunning coastline, towering mountains and winding sea channels. The destination offers a dramatic landscape that makes it an ideal choice for a short getaway.
Arrive in Khasab in time for breakfast at a local café, then visit Khasab Castle, a restored 17th-century fortress that provides a fascinating insight into Oman’s rich history and heritage.
Spend the rest of the morning exploring the town’s waterfront before setting out on a traditional dhow cruise.
The relaxing boat trip takes visitors past dramatic cliffs, hidden bays and stunning coastal landscapes, with regular dolphin sightings adding to the experience. Many cruises also offer opportunities to stop for swimming and snorkelling in the clear, calm waters.
For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood such as grilled kingfish, prawns or lobster at one of the restaurants overlooking the harbour.
As temperatures cool in the afternoon, head to one of Musandam’s mountain viewpoints to catch the sunset. Watching the sun dip behind the fjord-like coastline is a highlight that makes the trip worthwhile.
Spend the night at a beachfront resort or boutique hotel in Khasab.
Day 2: Coastal views before heading home
Start the morning with breakfast overlooking the Arabian Sea before visiting Telegraph Island or taking a short boat trip if you missed it the previous day.
For travellers seeking more adventure, activities such as kayaking and diving offer another way to explore Musandam’s natural beauty.
Before departing, visit a local market to buy Omani souvenirs, including dates, frankincense, honey and traditional halwa.
The drive back to the UAE is also part of the experience, with several scenic viewpoints along the route offering opportunities to pause and enjoy the landscape.
Looking for mountains instead?
If you have already explored Musandam, consider a road trip towards Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar.
Nizwa’s historic fort and lively souq make for a perfect first stop, where visitors can explore traditional silver jewellery, pottery and local spices.
From there, continue to Jebel Akhdar, one of Oman’s most impressive mountain destinations, known for its dramatic scenery, cool climate and terraced landscapes.
Known for its cooler temperatures and terraced farms, the region is perfect for hiking, taking in panoramic views and escaping the Gulf’s summer heat.
The Balcony Walk is among Oman’s most scenic trails, offering breathtaking views of deep canyons and traditional villages built along the mountainsides.
Visiting during Khareef? Don’t miss Salalah
For travellers planning a longer holiday or opting to fly instead of drive, Salalah becomes one of the region’s most distinctive destinations during Oman’s annual Khareef season.
While much of the Gulf faces peak summer temperatures, southern Oman transforms into a green paradise as seasonal monsoon rains cover the landscape.
Visitors can explore the waterfalls of Wadi Darbat, the dramatic blowholes at Al Mughsail Beach, and the famous frankincense markets, while also enjoying a range of cultural events held throughout the season.
What to eat
A visit to Oman is not complete without experiencing its traditional cuisine.
Must-try dishes include:
- Shuwa: Slow-cooked lamb traditionally prepared for special occasions
- Majboos: Fragrant rice served with meat or seafood
- Mishkak: Grilled meat skewers popular across Oman
- Fresh seafood: Including lobster, kingfish and prawns along the coast
- Omani halwa: Best enjoyed with traditional kahwa (Arabic coffee)
How much should you budget?
- Stay: Around Dh360 to Dh550 per night at 3- and 4-star hotels in Khasab
- Dhow cruise: Full-day cruises from Dh140 per person, often including lunch and snorkelling equipment
- Dining: Approximately Dh200 to Dh300 per day for two people at local seafood and traditional restaurants
Don’t leave without
- A swimsuit
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle
- A power bank
- A camera or enough phone storage for photos
Whether you are looking for mountain adventures, coastal sunsets or a slower pace of travel, Oman remains one of the easiest international escapes for UAE residents. With the introduction of a free 14-day tourist visa for eligible travellers, planning a spontaneous weekend getaway has become even more appealing.
