Travel between Dubai and Oman is straightforward — by bus (~6 hrs to Muscat), private car (~5 hrs), or a short flight. Most UAE residents can enter Oman with an e-visa or on arrival depending on nationality.
Bus options
- Mwasalat (ONTC): Dubai (Al Ghubaiba) → Muscat. AED 100 one-way, departs morning & evening, ~6.5 hrs. Book at mwasalat.om or at the station.
- Mwasalat to Sohar: AED 70, ~3 hrs.
- X90: Al Ain Bus Station → Buraimi (Oman border) AED 7 — connect to Oman bus from Buraimi to Muscat.
- Premium coaches: occasional private operators run AED 150 luxury services to Muscat with WiFi & reclining seats.
Border crossings
- Hatta–Wajajah: most popular. UAE side at Hatta, Oman side at Wajajah. 24/7 (peak times slow).
- Al Ain–Buraimi (Hili / Mezyad): easiest from Al Ain or Abu Dhabi. Two crossings here.
- Khatmat Milahah: in Fujairah, leads to Musandam & Sohar via Wadi Al Jizi.
- Tibat (Sham): from Ras Al Khaimah to Musandam (Khasab) — boat-only access otherwise.
Border fees: AED 35 UAE departure tax (paid online or at counter); Oman tourist visa OMR 5–20 (~AED 50–195) depending on duration.
Driving your own car to Oman
- Get orange card insurance (cross-border insurance) from your UAE insurer — usually AED 50–150 for 1 month.
- Carry your UAE Mulkiya (vehicle registration), driving license, Emirates ID, and insurance.
- Fuel in Oman is much cheaper (~OMR 0.265/L = AED 2.55) — fill up after crossing the border.
- Speed limit in Oman: 120 km/h on highways, strictly enforced (no buffer).
- Toll: Oman has no road tolls; just buy fuel in Oman and you save more than the bus fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the bus from Dubai to Muscat?
AED 100 one-way on Mwasalat from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, ~6.5 hours.
Do UAE residents need a visa for Oman?
Most do. Apply for the e-visa at evisa.rop.gov.om — OMR 5 (~AED 50) for 10-day, OMR 20 (~AED 195) for 30-day.
Which Dubai–Oman border is fastest?
Hatta–Wajajah is fastest from Dubai. Al Ain–Buraimi is fastest from Abu Dhabi.
Is fuel cheaper in Oman?
Yes — about 15% cheaper. Fill up after crossing.