Just a stone’s throw from the UAE, the breathtaking country of Oman is brimming with natural wonders and rich history, ready to be explored. If you’re wondering how to make the journey from the UAE to Oman — you’re in the right place.
Sure, hopping on a (comically) short flight to our neighbour’s doorstep is always on the table — but let’s be honest, not everyone’s up for the airport hustle. The good news? For those of us based in the UAE, there are plenty of other ways to cross into Oman without the fuss.
Some of these options aren’t just easy and budget-friendly — they can actually double as a fun little escape. Whether you’re feeling burnt out or just craving a change of scene, a quick trip to Oman could be the refresh you didn’t know you needed. Think daycations, staycations, or full-blown vacations — it’s all on the table.
Here are all the ways you can travel to Oman.
By Air
If you’re after a quick and hassle-free way in and out of Oman, flying is probably your best bet — especially given how short the journey is. A flight to Muscat International Airport from any UAE hub takes just 45 minutes to an hour. Daily departures are available from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, often at wallet-friendly prices.
From Dubai, Emirates and FlyDubai offer round-trip flights starting at around AED 1,245 and AED 675, respectively — making it easy to choose between luxury or budget without sacrificing convenience.
Air Arabia from Sharjah starts at Dhs607 for a roundtrip.
By road
Buses
For those who prefer to keep things grounded, taking a bus is a convenient and affordable option. Oman’s national transport company, Mwasalat, operates routes connecting the UAE to several Omani cities, including Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah.
One of the key routes runs from Abu Dhabi to Oman via Al Ain, while another connects Sharjah directly to Muscat. It’s a comfortable way to travel without the airport hassle — perfect for those who enjoy a scenic, laid-back journey.
Dubai residents can also hop on a direct bus to Oman via Al Khanjry Transport. Operating daily, the service departs at 7am, 3pm, and 9pm from their Dubai office, with one-way tickets priced at AED 95.
The journey takes around six hours and includes rest stops, immigration procedures, and everything you need for a smooth cross-border trip. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to get to Oman without the stress of flying or driving yourself.
For those traveling by bus between Muscat and Abu Dhabi, there are convenient daily departures. From Muscat, buses leave the Azaiba bus station at 6:30 am and arrive in Abu Dhabi at 3:40 pm. The return journey departs from Abu Dhabi at 10:45 am, arriving in Muscat at 8:35 pm.
It’s a straightforward option for those who prefer to travel by land, with plenty of time to relax during the journey.
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(@mwasalat_om)A one-way ticket for the bus ride will set you back AED 109.70 (or 11.5 Omani Riyals). As for luggage, passengers are allowed to bring up to 23kg of checked baggage and 7kg of hand baggage, so you can pack comfortably for the journey.
By Car
The road connection between the UAE and Oman is made up of well-maintained highways, multiple border posts, and scenic routes that make driving a breeze. The journey typically takes around five hours, making it ideal for a quick road trip getaway. If you enjoy long drives, it might be even more convenient than taking the bus — you can stop along the way and travel at your own pace.
For UAE residents, the most popular border crossing is Hatta – Al Wajajah, which is conveniently located for those in Dubai and Sharjah. If you’re coming from Ras Al Khaimah, Al Darah is the closest post, while Dibba and Khatmat Milaha are best accessed via Fujairah. For residents of Abu Dhabi, the Mezyad border post is the most convenient option.
Safe travels!
Flight fares are accurate for when this article was published and subject to change.
