Complete Guide: Musandam Khasab Tour from Sharjah
Introduction
Nestled at the northern tip of Oman, the Musandam Peninsula rises dramatically from the turquoise waters of the Strait of Hormuz like a natural fortress. Often called the “Norway of Arabia” for its stunning fjords, Musandam offers one of the most spectacular day trips from Sharjah. This complete guide will help you plan an unforgettable journey to Khasab, where rugged mountains meet pristine waters and traditional dhow boats glide past pods of playful dolphins.
Why Visit Musandam from Sharjah?
The journey from Sharjah to Khasab is more than just a tour—it’s an adventure through contrasting landscapes and cultures. Within a few hours, you’ll transition from the cosmopolitan UAE into Oman’s serene mountain kingdom, where limestone cliffs plunge into crystal-clear waters and ancient villages cling to rocky slopes.
The proximity makes it perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway, with most tours covering approximately 450 kilometers round trip. You’ll experience border crossings, mountain passes with breathtaking views, and the warm hospitality of Omani culture.
Available Tour Packages
1. Full-Day Dhow Cruise Package
Duration: 12-14 hours
This is the most popular option, combining the scenic drive with a traditional dhow cruise through the fjords. This one-day Khasab Musandam tour from Sharjah, Dubai, is all-inclusive.
Your day typically includes:
- Early morning pickup from Sharjah (5:30-6:30 AM)
- Scenic drive through Ras Al Khaimah and border crossing
- 4-5 hour dhow cruise in Musandam fjords
- Swimming and snorkeling stops at Telegraph Island
- Traditional Omani lunch on board
- Dolphin watching opportunities
- Visit to fishing villages
- Return to Sharjah by evening (8-9 PM)
Best for: First-time visitors wanting a comprehensive experience
2. Premium Dhow Cruise with Fishing
Duration: 12-14 hours
An upgraded version that includes:
- All features of the standard package
- Traditional fishing experience with equipment provided
- Fresh fruit and refreshments throughout
- Underwater photography opportunities
- Smaller group sizes (maximum 25 people)
- Air-conditioned cabins on the dhow
Best for: Travelers seeking a more intimate and comfortable experience
3. Mountain Safari and Dhow Combo
Duration: 14-16 hours
If you want to explore the sea and mountains together, Musandam will not let you down. You can choose the Musandam half-day dhow cruise and half-day mountain safari adventure in Khasab, Musandam from Sharjah or Dubai.
For adventure seekers, this package combines water and land exploration:
- Half-day Khasab dhow cruise 3.5 hours
- Swimming, snorkeling and dolphin watch
- 4×4 mountain safari through Jebel Harim
- Visit to ancient petroglyphs and villages
- Stop at Khor Najd viewpoint (1,800 meters above sea level)
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Cultural interactions with Bedouin communities
Best for: Adventure enthusiasts and photography lovers
4. Overnight Dhow Cruise Package
Duration: 2 days/1 night
Extend your adventure with an overnight stay on dhow cruise:
- Day 1: Dhow cruise and fjords exploration
- Overnight stay on boat with traditional Omani dinner
- Fishing, dolphin watching, swimming, snorkeling and sightseeing
- Night under starry sky
- Day 2: Mountain safari and cultural sites
- All meals included
Best for: Travelers with more time wanting deeper immersion
5. Overnight Beach Camping Package
This is also a unique experience for the visitors to spend the night on the sandy beach and dhow cruise adventure. Musandam beach camping offers you:
- Day 1: Dhow cruise and coastal exploration
- Beach camping with traditional Omani dinner
- Stargazing and bonfire
- Day 2: Mountain safari and cultural sites
- All meals included
Best for: Travelers with more time wanting deeper immersion
5. Speed Boat Tour
Duration: 10-12 hours | Price Range: AED 450-600 per person
A faster-paced alternative to the dhow cruise:
- High-speed exploration of fjords and hidden beaches
- Multiple snorkeling stops
- Dolphin watching
- Lunch at a seaside restaurant in Khasab
- Visit to Khasab Fort
Best for: Those short on time or seeking more activity
Detailed Travel Guide
Getting There: The Journey from Sharjah to Khasab
Route Overview: Sharjah → Ras Al Khaimah → UAE-Oman Border (Tibat) → Mountain Pass → Khasab
Distance: Approximately 225 km one way Driving Time: 3-4 hours (including border formalities)
Step-by-Step Road Guide
Leg 1: Sharjah to RAK Border (100 km, 1 hour)
Start your journey on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) heading north. The highway is excellent, with clear signage. You’ll pass through:
- Al Dhaid: Agricultural heartland with date palm plantations
- Ras Al Khaimah: The northernmost emirate with mountain backdrops
Continue on E11 (Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Highway) toward the Omani border.
Leg 2: UAE-Oman Border Crossing at Tibat (30 minutes to 1 hour)
This is where your adventure really begins. The border post sits at the base of dramatic mountain ranges. You’ll need:
- Valid passport (at least 3 months validity)
- UAE residence visa or tourist visa
- Vehicle registration and insurance for more info visit our Dubai to Musandam Khasab Guide page
The Omani officials are generally friendly and efficient. Have your documents ready and follow instructions. Many tour operators handle this seamlessly.
Leg 3: Mountain Pass to Khasab (45 km, 45 minutes to 1 hours)
After crossing the border, you enter the Musandam exclave. The road becomes a spectacular mountain highway with:
- Panoramic viewpoints overlooking wadis and valleys
- Small villages clinging to mountainsides
- Goats and occasional camels on the roadside
Key Viewpoints:
- Wadi Bih Viewpoint (20 km from border): Stop here for your first breathtaking vista
- Sayh Plateau (halfway point): Flat agricultural area with traditional homes
- Khasab Approach: Descent reveals the azure waters and port below
What to Expect in Khasab
Khasab town is small, peaceful, and steeped in maritime heritage. The port bustles with dhows trading with Iran across the strait, creating a unique cultural atmosphere.
Main Attractions:
Khasab Fort: A 17th-century Portuguese fort now serving as a museum showcasing Omani heritage, weaponry, and traditional boats.
Telegraph Island (Jazirat al-Maqlab): A historic island where the British laid telegraph cables in the 1860s. Now a popular snorkeling spot with clear waters and marine life.
Fjords (Khors): The star attraction, these sea inlets carved between towering cliffs create dramatic scenery reminiscent of Norway or New Zealand.
Fishing Villages: Remote settlements like Kumzar (accessible only by boat) where ancient dialects and traditions survive.
The Dhow Cruise Experience
The traditional wooden dhow is your vessel for exploring the fjords. Modern ones are equipped with cushioned seating, shaded areas, and basic facilities while maintaining their authentic appearance.
Typical Cruise Itinerary:
9:30 AM – Boarding Welcome aboard with Omani coffee and dates. The crew explains the day’s route and safety procedures.
10:0 AM – Departure Glide out of Khasab harbor, passing fishing boats and Iranian cargo dhows. The mountains rise immediately on both sides.
10:30 AM – Dolphin Watching The waters between Musandam and Iran are home to several dolphin species. Humpback dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and occasionally spinner dolphins appear, playing in the boat’s wake.
11:00 AM – Fjord Exploration Navigate deep into Khor Sham or Khor Najd, where cliffs tower 500 meters above. The water changes from deep blue to emerald green in the shallows.
12:00 PM – Swimming & Snorkeling at Telegraph Island Anchor in calm waters for swimming. Snorkeling reveals coral formations, colorful fish, and sometimes rays or sea turtles.
1:00 PM – Lunch Traditional Omani buffet served on board: fresh grilled fish, chicken machboos (spiced rice), fresh fruits, and salads.
2:30 PM – Village Visit Stop at small coastal villages where families live much as they have for centuries, fishing and tending goats.
3:30 PM – Return Journey Leisurely cruise back to port with more dolphin watching and photography opportunities.
Essential Tips for Your Sharjah to Musandam Trip
Before You Go
Booking Advice:
- Book at least 3-5 days in advance, especially during peak season (October-April)
- Compare packages from multiple operators
- Read recent reviews focusing on guide quality and safety
- Confirm what’s included (meals, equipment, permits)
- Ask about group sizes—smaller is usually better
Best Time to Visit:
- October-April/May: Perfect weather, calm seas, ideal for all activities (18-28°C)
- May-September: Very hot (35-45°C), but less crowded and cheaper rates
- November-February: Peak season, book early
- Weekdays: Less crowded than weekends
What to Pack:
Essentials:
- Passport (original, not a copy)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)—the sun reflects off water intensely
- Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat
- Light, breathable clothing
- Modest swimwear (remember you’re in Oman)
- Waterproof bag for electronics
- Motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness
Optional but Recommended:
- Underwater camera or GoPro
- Light jacket for air-conditioned vehicles
- Personal snorkeling gear (though usually provided)
- Extra cash in UAE Dirhams or Omani Rials
Don’t Bring:
- Alcohol (prohibited in Oman)
- Drones (require special permits)
- Revealing clothing
During Your Trip
Photography Tips:
- Golden hour during the cruise (early morning) offers magical light
- Use polarizing filters to reduce water glare
- Keep cameras in waterproof cases near water
- Respect photography restrictions at border posts
- Ask permission before photographing locals
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages
- Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques
- Ask before photographing people
- Greet locals with “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you)
- Accept offered coffee or dates—it’s considered polite
Health Considerations:
- Stay hydrated—drink water constantly
- Apply sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours
- Avoid touching marine life while snorkeling
- Watch your step on rocky areas
- Inform your guide of any medical conditions
Environmental Responsibility:
- Never throw anything overboard
- Don’t remove shells, coral, or stones
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Respect marine life—observe from a distance
- Support local businesses in villages
Safety Guidelines
Road Safety
If Driving Independently:
- Rent a well-maintained 4×4 vehicle
- Check tire pressure and spare tire before departure
- Carry extra water (5+ liters per person)
- Download offline maps (Google Maps works offline in the region)
- Start early to avoid driving mountains in darkness
- Watch for animals on roads, especially at dawn/dusk
- Maintain safe speeds on mountain curves
- Fill up fuel in RAK—limited stations in Musandam
- Share your itinerary with someone
Mountain Driving Tips:
- Use low gears on steep descents
- Give way to uphill traffic on narrow sections
- Pull over at viewpoints only where safe
- Watch for falling rocks after rain
- Don’t attempt shortcuts or unpaved roads without a guide
Border Crossing Safety:
- Follow all instructions from officials
- Don’t photograph border facilities
- Declare any restricted items
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Be patient—processing takes time
Water Safety
On the Dhow:
- Listen to crew safety briefings
- Wear life jackets when required
- Keep children supervised at all times
- Hold railings when moving around
- Stay seated during rough waters
- Know where life rafts and emergency equipment are located
Swimming and Snorkeling:
- Never swim alone
- Stay within designated areas
- Inform crew of your swimming ability
- Wear life jacket if not a strong swimmer
- Watch for boat traffic before entering water
- Don’t touch coral or marine life
- Exit water if feeling tired
- Check for jellyfish before entering (rare but possible)
Sun Safety:
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure
- Reapply after swimming
- Wear rash guard or swim shirt for extended snorkeling
- Seek shade regularly
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, nausea, excessive thirst
Comprehensive Road Guide: Sharjah to Khasab
Pre-Departure Checklist
Vehicle Preparation (if self-driving):
- [ ] Full fuel tank
- [ ] Spare tire checked
- [ ] Jack and tire tools accessible
- [ ] Engine oil and coolant levels checked
- [ ] Emergency triangle and first aid kit
- [ ] Phone charger and power bank
- [ ] Physical map as backup
Documents:
- Passports for all travelers
- UAE vehicle registration (Mulkiya)
- International driving permit (recommended)
- Vehicle insurance covering Oman
- Hotel booking confirmation (if staying overnight)
- Emergency contact numbers saved
UAE Exit Procedures:
- Join queue at UAE immigration counter
- Present passports and vehicle registration
- Receive exit stamp (5-10 minutes)
- Proceed to vehicle inspection area
- Customs may inspect vehicle briefly
- Exit through gate to neutral zone
Oman Entry Procedures:
- Purchase Oman car insurance (required, approx. AED 50 for single entry)
- Join visa processing queue
- Payment window: visa fees (usually free for UAE residents, check current rules)
- Immigration counter: passport stamps
- Collect vehicle entry permit
- Proceed to Oman customs inspection
- Exit to Oman
Total border time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic (weekday mornings usually fastest)
Return Journey Considerations
- Allow same travel time (3-4 hours)
- Border usually faster leaving Oman
- Fuel up in Khasab before departure
- Saturday afternoons (border can be very busy)
- Plan to reach border before 8 PM (reduced staff after hours)
- Mountain roads are challenging in darkness—start return by 3 PM for safety
Budget Breakdown
Self-Drive Option:
- Fuel (round trip): AED 200-250
- Oman insurance: AED 100
- Dhow cruise in Khasab: AED 150-200 (book locally)
- Meals: AED 50-100
- Incidentals: AED 50
- Total: AED 500-650 per person (based on 2 people)
Budget Tip: Self-driving is economical for groups of 3-4 people but requires navigation skills and time. Tours offer convenience and local expertise.
Final Recommendations
Musandam is one of those rare destinations that exceeds expectations. The journey itself is an adventure, and the fjords are genuinely spectacular. Whether you choose a guided tour or self-drive adventure, this trip offers:
- Natural Beauty: World-class scenery rivaling famous fjord destinations
- Cultural Experience: Authentic Omani hospitality and traditions
- Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, fish, and occasional sea turtles
- Adventure: From mountain driving to snorkeling
- Accessibility: Achievable as a day trip from Sharjah
The key to a successful trip is preparation. Book with reputable operators, respect local customs, prioritize safety, and keep an open mind. The Musandam Peninsula rewards curious travelers with memories that last a lifetime.
As you cruise through the fjords with dolphins leaping nearby and mountains towering overhead, you’ll understand why this journey from Sharjah to Khasab ranks among the UAE’s most spectacular adventures. The “Norway of Arabia” awaits—it’s time to discover why Musandam captures the hearts of all who visit.
About Visiting Musandam: The region is accessible year-round but most comfortable from October through April. The local currency is Omani Rial (1 OMR ≈ 9.5 AED), though UAE Dirhams are widely accepted. English is spoken by most tour operators and in tourism areas, though learning a few Arabic phrases enhances the experience.
Safe travels, and may your Musandam Tour adventure be everything you hope for and more!