Personal Photos
Near the end of May I was in Dubai for business, and had to go to Muscat, Oman for a few days. The total distance is about 500km, but ultimately the drive took about 8 hours, including at least 30 minutes from making a wrong turn at a roundabout in Oman.
Driving from Dubai to Muscat - May 2008
You drive over a mountain range between UAE and Oman. It’s quite beautiful scenery, and the terrain varies a lot over the drive. Make sure you leave early in the day, so you don’t have to drive too long while it’s dark.
The roadsigns aren’t all that helpful, so make sure you have a map!
I took the E44 from Dubai on the direct route to Muscat. It becomes route 5 after the Oman Border.
I made the wrong turn at the roundabout with the junction of route 5 and route 1. It’s not signposted to Muscat, so make sure you make a RIGHT turn!
Typical shops in a one-street town. This was about 60km outside of Dubai.
Hatta, UAE Roundabout
UAE Flag on Hillside
You need to purchase Oman driving insurance. I bought 10 days worth for 17 Omani Rials from a shack on the side of the road.
There’s also a vendor in the UAE passport control building.
You then park your car, and go in to this building to get a stamp leaving the UAE.
Security Checkpoint, Oman Border Crossing
Security Form Before Approved
Security Form With Entry Visa
UAE Exit Stamp, Oman Entry Stamp
Sunset Over Omani Mountains
Typical Omani Watchtower. Many were built by the Portuguese in the 1700s.
